Individual Counselling for Adults

Free one-on-one counselling and support in a safe, non-judgemental environment for people who need help addressing their own alcohol or other drug (AOD) use or who are dealing with the impact of someone else’s AOD use.

About the program

Our counselling program is free, confidential and available to individuals of all ages. Across six one-hour sessions, our counsellors help participants make sense of their situation and work through the challenges caused by their or someone else’s alcohol or drug use, with a focus on developing:

• a greater understanding of self and others
• awareness, acceptance and connection
• meaning-making, attitude and perspective
• empowerment and self-confidence.

The empowering support our counsellors provide is individually tailored for each participant and their goals. Sessions can cover a wide range of subjects, all focused on developing the understanding and skills participants need to live healthier lives and enjoy happier relationships. This includes:

• alcohol and other drug dependency, relapse and avoidance
• self-esteem, self-control and self-responsibility
• stress, grief, guilt, loss, anger, shame, anxiety, depression and violence
• bonding, boundaries and peer pressure
• communication, relationships and coping skills,
• goal-setting and making positive, sustainable changes for the future.

How the program works

The therapeutic process begins with an initial meeting and assessment with a counsellor where participants gain an understanding of what has brought them to counselling, as well as a broader overview of their life.

The second session typically focuses on identifying the person’s needs, concerns, challenges and risks, both in relation to alcohol and other drug use and life more broadly. This is followed by setting goals and ambitions for growth and progress.

After the first two sessions, participants work towards their goals with their counsellor through a series of conversations that help build the individual’s capacity to work through alcohol, drug and life challenges. As the therapeutic process progresses towards the final session, the participant and their counsellor discuss whether they feel ready to finalise treatment. If further support is required, we can provide referrals to other professionals.

Are counselling conversations private and confidential?

Yes, counselling conversations are private and confidential, with details staying strictly between the participant and their counsellor.

There are only three instances in which details of sessions could be disclosed to a third party: under law, such as a court order; in ethical circumstances where the participant is a risk to themselves or others; or under express consent, where the participant gives written permission for disclosure.

The outcomes

Our individual counselling is focused on helping people address and find solutions for specific challenges or issues they are facing. Participants take away practical tools and new knowledge and skills that help in everyday life.

However, perhaps the most positive impact comes at an emotional level. The way we feel is inherently linked with alcohol and other drug use. The better we feel, the less likely we are to abuse alcohol or other drugs or become overwhelmed by the impact of someone else’s AOD use.

By providing a safe space, our counselling sessions promote greater levels of acceptance, connection, self-worth and understanding of self. We help people empower themselves to face life’s challenges with confidence and the belief that things will not only improve but, ultimately, lead to reward and fulfilment and meaningful experiences and relationships.

Sessions are available in person, on the phone or via video call, either during the day or in the evening. For more information, please contact reception on 9416 4444 or at clientservices@holyoake.org.au 

Consumers are entitled to have a Carer attend counselling sessions with them.

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