7 Steps to Find the Right Online Therapist in Australia

online therapy in australia

Online therapy in Australia has made mental health support more accessible than ever. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, depression or other personal challenges, finding an online therapist can be the key to receiving the support you need because you don’t have to travel and it can be easier to find a time that fits in with your schedule.

However, with so many options available, how do you choose an online therapist who aligns with your needs?

Before we start, if you are experiencing a mental health emergency, please call 000 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.

If you need support to overcome a personal challenge and improve your mental wellbeing, here’s what to consider when seeking virtual mental health services:

Is Online Therapy Right for You?

Online therapy in Australia offers flexibility and convenience, but it’s not the right fit for everyone. It may be a good option if you:

  • Prefer to chat from the comfort of your home rather than attending in-person sessions
  • Have a busy schedule that makes travelling to appointments difficult
  • Live in a rural or remote area that has limited access to mental health services
  • Feel more comfortable opening up in a virtual setting

If you require crisis intervention or have severe mental health conditions that need in-person support, online therapy may not be the best choice.

7 Steps to Choose an Online Therapist

Finding the right online therapist in Australia means considering several key factors. The following steps will help you make the right choice:

1. Be clear on your needs

Before you start your search, figure out which issues you want to address. Are you looking for support with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues? Different therapists specialise in different areas, so knowing your needs will help narrow your search.

2. Ensure the therapist is culturally aware and inclusive

Australia has a diverse population, and mental health support should be inclusive. If you come from a culturally diverse background or speak a language other than English at home, finding a therapist who understands your cultural experiences and values can make a difference in your therapy journey.

3. Choose the right therapy approach and specialisations

Online therapists use various approaches, including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, and mindfulness-based techniques. Researching these methods can help you find a therapist whose approach aligns with your preferences and your mental wellbeing goals.

At Sarkar Mental Health Services, our online therapists are experienced in the following therapy modalities:

  • Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
  • Systemic Family Therapy
  • Psychodynamic Psychotherapy
  • EMDR- Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing in Trauma
  • Mentalisation Based Treatment (MBT)

It can sometimes take more than one therapist to find the right one, so if your first appointment doesn’t feel ‘right’, try someone else.

4. Confirm that your therapy is confidential and secure

Privacy is essential when seeking online therapy. Check that your therapist uses a secure, encrypted platform for video sessions and follows confidentiality guidelines. Licensed professionals will have strict protocols in place to protect your information.

5. Check availability and wait times

Accessing therapy when you need it is important. Some therapists have long wait times, while others offer more immediate availability. If you require regular sessions or need to catch up with your online therapist in Australia outside of business hours, consider booking with someone who can accommodate your schedule.

6. Seek recommendations and check reviews

Word-of-mouth recommendations and client testimonials can be valuable when choosing an online therapist. Ask friends, family, or your GP for referrals, and check online reviews to get insights into a therapist’s reputation. Note that the rules for reviews limit what people can say, so if you mainly see comments that are quite general in nature it’s because of the clinical information confidentiality legislation.

7. Check for ongoing support and resources

Therapy doesn’t end after a single session. Consider whether the therapist provides additional resources, such as worksheets, self-help tools or follow-up support, to help you continue your progress between sessions.

How to Find a Licensed and Reputable Online Therapist in Australia

When searching for an online therapist, look for professionals registered with recognised bodies such as:

These organisations ensure therapists meet professional and ethical standards. Always verify a therapist’s credentials and licensing before booking a session.

Get Professional Online Therapy With Sarkar Mental Health Services

Looking for professional and compassionate online therapy in Australia? Sarkar Mental Health Services offers expert support tailored to your needs, with virtual appointments available.

Video consultations are available on Mondays and Fridays, providing flexibility to fit therapy into your schedule.

To book a session, call 0413 776 255 or send an enquiry via this contact form.