Filipino Speaking Counsellors and Therapists in Sydney

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I have therapy in Filipino?

  Yes. Equana Minds matches you with therapists who speak Filipino/Tagalog, and a range of other languages. You can choose to have sessions in the language you feel most comfortable using.

  We also understand that people who share the same language may come from different countries, cultures, and backgrounds. When possible, we aim to match you with a therapist who understands not only your language, but also your cultural context and life experience.

• Why is it helpful to have therapy in your native language?

  Many people find it easier to express thoughts, emotions, and personal experiences in their native language. Language is closely connected to culture, identity, and the way we understand the world.

  Research and international mental health organisations recognise the importance of providing support in a person’s preferred language and cultural context.

  When therapy is delivered in a language you feel comfortable with, it can:

  • Help you explain your feelings more naturally
  • Build a stronger connection with your therapist
  • Reduce potential misunderstandings
  • Make the process feel safer and more personal

  For many people, speaking in their native language allows therapy to feel more natural, meaningful, and helpful.

• What types of therapists can I see?

  Our team includes Australian-based English speaking therapists:

  • Registered Psychologists
  • Clinical Psychologists
  • Registered Counsellors and Psychotherapists
  • Accredited Mental Health Social Workers

  You can choose the type of therapist that best suits your needs, goals, and budget.  You may be eligible for Medicare rebates when seeing registered psychologists and clinical psychologists.

• How does Equana Minds work?

  You can either Browse Therapists or complete our Get Matched process. We’ll help connect you with a therapist who speaks English and suit your needs. Sessions are conducted online by secure telehealth platform.  Standard sessions are 50 minutes for individual, and 80 minutes for couples.

  To find your English speaking psychologist, counsellor or therapist and book your first 20 minute session, see our Browse Therapists and Get Matched sections.

• Are the therapists qualified and experienced?

  Yes. All English speaking therapists on our platform are trained and experienced professionals. Australian-based psychologists are registered with AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency).

  Counsellors and psychotherapists are registered through recognised professional bodies, such as the ACA (Australian Counselling Association), and PACFA (Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia).

  Accredited mental health social workers are registered with AASW (Australian Association of Social Workers).

  All of our psychologists, counsellors and therapists have been vetted through thorough recruitment processes prior to joining our team.

• Can I use Medicare or private insurance?

  Medicare rebates may be available when you see an AHPRA-registered psychologist or an accredited mental health social worker with a referral and valid Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHCP) from your GP. You can also get a MHCP from an online GP.

  Private health rebates may also be available depending on your insurer, level of cover and the English speaking psychologist or counsellor.

• How much do sessions cost?

  Session fees vary depending on the therapist’s qualifications and experience, see our pricing above.

  You can view each therapist’s fees on their profile before booking.

• What is the difference between a registered psychologist, a clinical psychologist and a counsellor?

  Psychologists and counsellors are all trained professionals who provide talk-based support, but their training, registration, and areas of focus can differ.

  Registered psychologists are university-trained mental health professionals who are registered with AHPRA. They are qualified to assess, diagnose and treat a wide range of mental health concerns and conditions, using evidence-based psychological therapies.  Medicare rebates are available for eligible clients.

  Clinical psychologists are psychologists who have completed additional postgraduate training and supervised practice in clinical psychology. They often work with more complex or severe mental health disorders. Medicare rebates are available for eligible clients.

  Counsellors and psychotherapists provide supportive, talk-based therapy for emotional challenges, life transitions, relationship issues, stress, and personal growth. Many are accredited through professional bodies and have specialised training in counselling or psychotherapy approaches.

  All three can provide meaningful support, and the best choice depends on your needs, goals, and preferences.

• Are sessions online or in person?

  All of our sessions are conducted online using a secure telehealth platform. This allows you to access therapy from anywhere, whenever suits you.

• Can I change therapists if it’s not the right fit?

  Yes. It’s important to find the right therapist for you. If your therapist wasn’t the right match, you’re welcome to switch therapists at any time.

• Is my information kept private and confidential?

  Yes. Your personal information and sessions are handled in accordance with professional confidentiality standards and privacy laws.  We partner with Halaxy as our practice management software, who are ISO 27001 certified (Information Security Management Systems) and HIPAA compliant (Halaxy).  You can view our Privacy Policy here.