Counselling FAQS
0001-01-01
About Gordon Counselling
Helpful information for students thinking of making a counselling appointment.
Who are The Gordon Counsellors
Gemma Carman
"Working from an integrated person-centred perspective and using a biopsychosocial assessment approach I have developed the capacity to think creatively and evaluate objectively. I am passionate about managing the balance of stress, anxiety and overwhelm most especially for those who are working with existing mental health conditions.
I provide confidential brief intervention counselling via phone, face to face or telehealth to students supporting them to achieve personal and educational success. I work collaboratively with the unique individual needs of students to improve effective completion of enrolled courses. As well as increasing capacity for problem solving and strategies improving well-being".
Alva Huang
"Since graduating from a Master in Counselling degree in 2011, I have been actively involved in the field of counselling and humanitarian work across countries such as Bulgaria, Singapore and Australia.
I provide confidential brief counselling sessions to students via face to face, and telehealth platforms such as phone and video. Some of the presenting issues I worked with include anxiety, depression, study concerns, interpersonal conflicts, financial stressors and adjustment issues. I believe in the power of being authentic in relationships, and connecting over our shared human experience. In my free time, I enjoy a good cup of tea, watching television dramas and being in nature."
Annie Davis
"As a counsellor, I strive to offer a supportive and empathetic environment when students can feel safe and understood. Using a holistic and person-centred approach, I aim to integrate both emotional and practical support to address each student's unique needs.
I hold a Master of Counselling degree and provide confidential counselling across a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, study concerns and family and relationship issues. I work across both Geelong and East Geelong campuses and offer in-person, phone and telehealth counselling. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time in nature, attending cultural events, reading and travel."
Deb Armstrong
“After graduating from my Social Work degree, I quickly realised that mental health was an area that I wanted to focus my career on. It affects everyone’s ability to live the life they want if it’s not going well.
I have spent most of the last twenty years working in the mental health profession, both in the community and the hospital system. I enjoy working with people to understand the way their thoughts and feelings affect their behaviour, and finding words and ways to express emotions in a healthy and safe way.
I provide confidential, time-limited counselling for students on almost anything! I can also link students into other services that might be helpful longer-term including housing support, drug and alcohol support, trauma support. I offer face-to-face appointments at both City and East campuses, and will consider Telehealth on request. When I’m not at the Gordon, this cat lady can be found hanging out with her ginger floof, reading, or getting to know Geelong better. I look forward to meeting you!”
Melissa McKeegan
“With a background in nursing and postgraduate qualifications in counselling, I bring a compassionate, practical, and holistic approach to the support I offer. My counselling practice is grounded in person-centred values, ensuring that each individual feels heard, respected, and empowered.
I have a special interest in supporting students with neurodiversity, and I am passionate about understanding and meeting their unique emotional and practical needs. My approach integrates both therapeutic insight and everyday strategies to help clients navigate challenges in a way that feels manageable and meaningful.
I provide confidential, brief counselling sessions, either face to face or via telehealth, focused on areas such as anxiety, family and relationship concerns, loss and grief, and women’s health issues. I am available for appointments at both Geelong campuses and the Werribee Watton St campus.”
Clare Manton
“I work to understand the whole person, and the commingling of internal and external factors that lead an individual to seek counselling at a particular point in time. My approach is integrative and collaborative, which means that together we build the work around you: your unique needs, personality, preferences and ways of relating.
I provide brief counselling to students who present with a range of difficulties, including study stress, feelings of lack of control and agency, anxiety and depression, difficulty regulating emotions, relational issues, and overwhelming sadness or loneliness.
I have a strong understanding of the relationship between mental health and education, and I hold a Masters in Counselling and a PhD in Education. Counselling is offered via telehealth, or face-to-face at the East Geelong and City Campuses.”
What can I see a counsellor about
Anything. You can see a counsellor for all sorts of reasons, no matter how big or small the problem may seem. We can support you with any uncertainties you may have – whether they are personal issues, mental health concerns and any matters relating to your wellbeing or study. Counselling at The Gordon is a short-term and solution focused service, our aim is to make sure you are well supported in any area’s that are concerning you.
Common issues that people seek counselling for include:
- grief and loss
- communication and relationships issues
- study issues
- stress, anxiety and depression
- life transitions such as the birth of a new baby, separation, divorce or the death of a family member or friend
- addiction
- abuse
- trauma
- self-esteem difficulties
- exploring their gender identity and/or sexuality
How can a counselling session help
A session with a counsellor can help you;
- clarify and better understand your concerns
- explore how your concerns have an outward effect
- develop new skills and strategies for managing your concerns
- information about referrals
What can I expect in a counselling session
Counselling sessions generally go for 50 minutes. Together, you and your counsellor will set goals to address your concerns and every few sessions we’ll review your progress towards these goals.
What is the cost and am I eligible
Counselling services are free for students currently enrolled at The Gordon. Appointments are available to Australian residents and International students.
Where can I find counselling on campus?
Geelong City Campus
(behind customer service)
H building H1.22
East Geelong Campus
A Building A1.17
Werribee Watton St Campus
Tuesday
Watton Street W2.01
Werribee Princes Campus
Thursday
WP.16
Is a Gordon counsellor the right choice for me
Choosing to see a counsellor is a difficult first step. The counsellors at The Gordon will use their training and experience to assist you in managing your issues and will provide advice on whether this service is appropriate to meet your needs. Counselling at The Gordon is confidential, short-term and solution focused with a maximum of up to 8 sessions offered. For issues requiring long term therapy or other specialised health support the counsellor will discuss with you a referral to an external counsellor or to other health professionals.
Are the counsellors at The Gordon qualified counsellors
All counsellors employed by The Gordon have relevant tertiary qualifications in psychology, social work, counselling and/or other welfare and hold membership with a professional organisations such as Australian Counselling Association (ACA), Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) or Australian Psychological Society (APS).
What confidentiality and privacy precautions are there
Counsellors follow strict guidelines for professional behavior, confidentiality and privacy. Our counsellors will not discuss your personal information or attendance details with anyone outside of the service unless you have provided us with permission to do so. Exceptions to this are;
- If there is a legal requirement for us to do so
- We have a reasonable belief that there is a risk to your health or safety or that of another person
- If it is necessary for The Gordon to obtain legal advice if your file is subpoenaed by a court of law.
Your first session
What can I expect in my first session
During your first counselling appointment you will be asked to complete some forms which include a Confidentiality agreement.
At the conclusion of your first appointment the counsellor will discuss with you what you would like to happen next. Some students chose to have a single session while others will arrange for a number of sessions (max up to 8) to address their concerns. If you intend on having a number of sessions, the counsellor will set goals with you to focus on in future sessions.
What do I need to do
You don’t need to bring anything to your counselling appointment, however, to get the most out of your appointment we ask that you;
- Be open and honest about your issue of concern
- Be willing to hear a different perspective or try something new.
- Treat staff with consideration and respect.
- Accept responsibility for your own part in the resolution process.
- Notify the service of any changes to your appointment in a timely manner.
How will I feel after my session
Attending to your areas of concern is likely to make you feel like you are doing something good for yourself. This can offer some immediate relief. However it is important that you are able to connect with your therapist in a manner that best supports positive change.
Your first session will help you to decide whether this counsellor is the right one for you. Questions to ask yourself include:
- Do I feel comfortable?
- Am I able to talk freely about deeply personal thoughts and emotions?
- Is the counsellor paying attention to me?
- Do I feel they understand and respect me?
- Has the counsellor discussed a plan with me about how we will manage my issues or concerns?
If your needs are specific it may be appropriate to refer to a counsellor who specialises in these areas. The Gordon counselling team can help you through this process to ensure you are getting the required help you need.
Making appointments
How do I make or cancel an appointment
Student Counselling service contact details can be found on our home page. Appointments can be made or cancelled through self-booking online or by phone 5225 0963 or email counsel@gordontafe.edu.au
You will receive an appointment reminder the day before your appointment and can use this to confirm or cancel your appointment.
How long do I have to wait for an appointment
Generally, you will be able to see a counsellor within a week. During peak times there could be a two week wait for an appointment.
What if my issue is urgent
If you require urgent medical attention call
- Emergency 000
- Lifeline 13 11 14
- Suicide Callback 1300 659 467
Do I have to see a counsellor face-to-face
Appointments are available across all Gordon campuses as face-to-face, phone or via Telehealth. You can select your preferred consultation approach upon booking.