What type of perinatal loss do you provide counselling for?

Rheann provides compassionate counselling for the experience of unsuccessful IVF cycles, infertility, miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, molar pregnancy, pregnancy termination for medical reasons, stillbirth, and neonatal loss typically up to 28 days post partum.

How are the counselling sessions facilitated?

All session are facilitated online over zoom. You do not require an account to use zoom. Simply click on the zoom link at the time of your appointment and you will be connected online. It is advisable to click the link a few minutes prior to the time of your appointment to ensure that there are not any technical issues present. Please reach out if this proves a barrier to accessing counselling.

Do I need a referral?

You do not require a referral however, should you wish to claim a Medicare rebate you will need to obtain a GP referral prior to your appointment (see Medicare section for further details). Full fee paying private clients are accepted.

What are your qualifications?

Rheann is an Accredited Social Worker and holds professional registration with the Australian Association of Social Workers. She also has a Graduate Certificate in Loss, Grief and Trauma Counselling. Rheann has undertaken further study and training in perinatal loss and additional training through the Australian Psychology Society; Perinatal Non Directive Counselling. This allows Rheann to provide Medicare rebates to eligible clients (see below for further information).

What is the difference between a counsellor and a psychologist?

Psychology is the scientific study of human behavior, and psychologists are professionals trained in diagnosing and treating psychological disorders. In Australia, only those registered with the Psychology Board of Australia can use the title ‘psychologist.’ Individuals with the title ‘counsellor’ can have varying qualifications . Counsellors typically provide support through talking therapy, helping clients address issues and emotions in a safe environment.

Is there a time frame for when my perinatal loss must have occurred to qualify for your counselling services?

There is no set time frame for when your loss occurred in order to be eligible for counselling. Support is available whenever you're ready to seek it.

I've just received a prenatal diagnosis and I'm uncertain about the future of my pregnancy

As a Medicare-registered non-directive perinatal counsellor, Rheann provides support for navigating
emotions that may arise from unexpected findings, offering a safe space for you to explore associated thoughts and feelings.

Do you accept Mental Health Care Plans?

Rheann is not Mental Health Accredited and therefore is unable to accept GP mental health care plans. For mental health concerns (ie; depression and anxiety) please consult your GP for a referral to a specialist therapist who is best suited to your needs. Rheann specialises in supporting individuals through grief and loss related to unexpected prenatal findings or perinatal loss.

How do I claim a Medicare Rebate?

If you are pregnant, or have been pregnant in the past 12 months and you are Medicare eligible, you may access Medicare rebates for counselling. Rebates are available for up to three sessions per pregnancy. You will be required to obtain a GP referral prior to your counselling appointment. Please refer to the Medicare section for further information.

Do you accept private health insurance?

You will need to check with your private health provider as to whether counselling is covered by your insurance policy.

How do I book a counselling session?

Please submit a contact form with a brief summary of the reason you are seeking counselling. You will then receive a client intake form to your email address. Once you have completed and submitted your intake form, this will be reviewed. If this service is best aligned to meet your needs, you will be contacted to arrange your initial counselling session. Currently only after hours appointments are available. Please allow three business days for responses.

Can I access counselling without a Medicare referral?

Absolutely. You do not require a Medicare referral from your GP to access counselling sessions.

How do I pay for my counselling sessions?

All clients are required to pay the full fee at the time of their counselling appointment. For those accessing a Medicare rebate with a valid Medicare referral, Rheann Kennedy Perinatal Grief and Loss Counselling will submit an invoice to Medicare on your behalf. If approved by Medicare, the rebate will appear in your nominated bank account.

Are you available for public speaking events?

Rheann is available to share her personal perinatal loss experience , as well as provide her professional insights on perinatal grief and pregnancy decision-making at your upcoming event. Please reach out to discuss this further.

I have further questions

Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions you may have via the contact page. Please allow three business days for a response.