Counsellors help people tackle problems in a positive way by helping to clarify issues, explore options and develop strategies. ‘Counsellors are experts in listening and helping people achieve their personal goals,’ says Dr Tristan Snell, a counselling psychologist and senior lecturer in psychology at Deakin University. ‘They don't tend to do diagnosis or assessment, but they will support people with mild to moderate symptoms of mental illness.’
Counsellors adopt a more person-centred approach, says Dr Snell. ‘If you went to see a psychologist, they would probably do quite a comprehensive assessment to begin with, whereas a counsellor would begin by listening and discussing what your goals are,’ he says.
Psychologists are trained in the science of how people think, feel, behave and learn. Many psychologists work in therapeutic settings, assessing people’s concerns and life circumstances. They provide help with mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, stress and eating disorders.
Tyack Health is excited to offer access to counselling services as well as Psychology. Our Counsellor, David Baker, comes from a family of teachers and health care professionals, so helping other people is part of his DNA. With over thirty years of experience in mental health nursing, David has a warm, compassionate and practical approach towards counselling and talking therapies. He believes that a trusting therapeutic relationship is the foundation stone for helping others and is acutely aware of how shame, trauma and stigma can impact on a person’s mental wellbeing.
David’s areas of special interest include Psychosis/Early Psychosis; Men’s Health; Anxiety/Worry; Depression and Loss/Grief. He has qualifications in counselling, Psychosocial Interventions, Behavioural Family Therapy, clinical and Reflective Practice Group supervision and has a Masters of Mental Health Practice.
If you would like to see David you could discuss this with your doctor and they may give you an EPC referral which will help cover some of the fees. David’s fees are $135.00 (EPC Rebate - $58.00 = $77.00 out of pocket). David is available for appointments on Thursday evenings from 5.00pm-8.00pm
