COVID 19 Information & Updates

As you would be aware, we all have ongoing concerns about Covid 19.  Here at The Melbourne Counselling Centre we are committed to supporting you in maintaining your focus on your mental health, and in offering an accessible counselling service to new clients. We must also ensure we work within the Covid 19 guidelines.

As such we are following the guidelines set by the Department of Health.

Self-isolate  if you meet any of the following criteria.
If you meet any of the requirements for self-isolation please do not attend in person. The requirements for self-isolation are:

  • if you have arrived from overseas travel from any country
  • if you have arrived from interstate on or after 22 March
  • if you have been in close contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19 and have been advised to self-isolate

Non- attendance
Please do not attend your counselling session in-person if you are unwell and experiencing a fever (temperature over 37.5 degrees) or acute respiratory infection (eg. Shortness of breath, cough, sore throat), regardless of whether you think this may be COVID-19 or a cold or flu.

If you are attending in person.
All sessions will be offered online but if you choose to attend your sessions in person, we ask that you ensure you are practicing excellent hygiene such as hand washing and containment of bodily fluids as this continues to be the best defence against the spread of cold, flus and COVID-19.

What if I’m isolated but well enough to have my session?
If you need to cancel your appointment due to isolation, you will be offered Zoom (online video sessions) or telephone options as an alternative to cancelling.  You will be stepped through connecting to Zoom if you’re uncertain. All you need is a stable internet connection and a smartphone with video call ability or a computer with webcam and microphone, then it’s as simple as clicking a link in an email.

What precautions are we taking.
We are working hard to minimise the possibility of spreading the virus by;

  • frequently sanitising surfaces such as door handles, reception counter, and bathrooms as frequently as possible throughout the day
  • not offering water during sessions so please bring your own water bottle.

Cancellations, rescheduling and extended hours
We have reduced our cancellation/reschedule notice period from 48 hours to 24 hours’ notice for cases of illness, and to offer as much flexibility as possible.  We would, however, appreciate you contacting us as soon as possible if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment so clients who are on our waiting list have an opportunity to be seen.

Additionally we have added more hours to make our service more accessible during this time.

How are online counselling sessions charged?
Standard session fees apply for an online counselling session.  If you are facing financial hardship as a result of Covid 19 please contact us to discuss an alternative fee arrangement.

Questions
If you have any questions or concerns as a result of COVID-19, please feel free to contact us to discuss options on1300 018 255 or email us at contact@melbournecounsellingcentre.com.au