Newport Counselling & Psychology Service - 43 Challis
Newport Counselling & Psychology Service - 43 Challis
43 Challis St, Newport, Victoria, 3015, Australia
03 9966 9908(Fax)
http://www.newportcounselling.com.auOverview
Welcome to Newport Counselling & Psychology Service (NCPS). We are here to support you with your clinical and therapeutic needs. We have immediate appointments available. Daytime, Evening & Weekend Sessions available. Please see our website for more information: newportcounselling.com.au.
BOOKINGS: New clients can complete the Katina enquiry form and current clients can book via Halaxy. Alternatively, contact us directly via phone or email.
REFERRAL INFORMATION: Please forward us any referral information and any other background information to assist us with allocating you to an appropriate clinician and having everything in place, prior to your appointment, so that we can focus on your clinical needs.
GP MENTAL HEALTH CARE PLAN: Please see your GP for a Referral for your initial 6 Sessions. Following this your clinician will prepare a GP report and you will need to see your GP for a Review. Your GP can then refer you for an additional 4 sessions.
THIRD PARTY REFERRAL: Please forward your NDIS, WorkSafe/TAC, Other referral to our service for review and allocation.
OUR FEES: Our session fees are based on clinician’s qualifications, experience and skills and are well below the APS/AASW recommended rates $130 (non-accredited clinicians) to $210- $290 for Accredited Medicare clinicians. Our consultation sessions are generally 50 minutes (~1 hour). Extended sessions (90 minutes) are available for couples/families or more in-depth clinical work. We will be having a fee increase in February 2025.
MEDICARE REBATES*: From 01 July 2024
*Accredited Mental Health Social Worker $85.20
* Mental Health Endorsed Occupational Therapist $85.20
* Psychologist $96.65
* Clinical Psychologist $141.85
Social Worker/Family Therapist - No Medicare rebate applies
COUPLE FAMILY SESSIONS: These sessions not eligible for Medicare and are paid for privately. We offer a set rate for NCPS Couple/Family sessions for our NCPS clinicians.
THIRD PARTY FEES:
- NDIS Self-Managed: Clinician fees are set at their clinical rate (Daytime/Evening rates apply)
- NDIS Plan Managed: Recommended Rate $193.99 Social Worker/Occ. Therapist) and $222.99 (Psychologist)
- TAC/Workcover: Clinician Fees apply and gap payment is required by the client. Organisations will be billed for payment.
- FRMP: Recommended Rate
- VOCAT: Recommended Rate
- Treatment Packages | GenWest/DFFH: Individual Funding Packages apply (based on individual clinician fees)
ADDITIONAL CLINCIAL WORK: We charge for additional clinical work required, this may include, e.g. Phone Calls, Case Discussion/Liaison, Reports/Support Letters etc. Fees will be discussed and billed to you accordingly.
CLINICAL ASSESSMENTS: Psychological Assessments, Screening tools, Schema/Gottman Assessment may incur additional fees. These will be discussed during intake proceedure or during clinical treatment.
HARDSHIP FEE: We do not offer fully funded sessions or bulk-billing services. Some existing clients with exceptional circumstances may be eligible for reduced fees. We are happy to offer some reduced sessions per clinician and/or refer you to an alternative service.
AFTER HOURS/WEEKEND: After-hours appointments and weekend sessions are charged at a higher rate.
HALAXY: Halaxy is an online program which allows us to securely store confidential information when we have registered you with our service. Book your sessions online (for known registered clients), enables us to process payments and Medicare rebates in a timely and efficient manner. You can also access copies of your invoices and appointment booking details via the Patient Portal.
KATINA: This program assesses new client to the service.
COURTESY REMINDER: We send out a courtesy SMS reminder (4 days) prior to appointments. If you notify us of cancellation, you will not be charged a cancellation fee (as this allows us time to offer the session to someone else in need).
NON-ATTENDANCE/CANCELLATION FEE: If you cancel with < 48 hour notice the full session fee will be charged. However, if we can fill it with someone else from our intake/waiting list, you will not be charged. For those with exceptional circumstances (e.g. hospital /emergency) the non-attendance fee can be waivered.
ILLNESS: For any illness symptoms we accept that you move your session to Telehealth sessions (via Phone or Video) to avoid the cancellation fee and any disruption to your treatment and support. If you are too unwell to attend, unfortunately the not attendance fee remains as we are unable to fill your session at such short notice and your clincian has been expecting to see you.
CLIENT SUPPORT TEAM (CST): Monday - Friday 9:00am - 5:00pm. We aim to contact you as soon as possible, if you do not hear from us, we may be busy helping someone else. If you need to contact us out of business hours, please use our Halaxy SMS system below (for brief messages regarding urgent issues) or email us.
CLINICAL ISSUES: If your contact is regarding a clinical matter, please email your clinician directly.
APPOINTMENT ONLY: We are an appointment only service. NCPS does not offer an urgent/emergency service.
For emergency, please contact 000, Beyond Blue 1300 224 636, Lifeline 131 114 Kids Help Line 1800 551 800 Men's Line 1300 789 978 Suicide Call Back 1300 659 467 PANDA 1300 726 306 Headspace 1800 650 890 Q-life 1800 184 527 Safe Steps Family Violence 1800 015 188 Werribee Mercy Mental Health Triage 1300 657 259 Orygen Youth Mental Health 1800 888 320 Royal Children's Hospital Mental Health Service 1800 44 55 11 Head to Help 1800 595 212
Newport Counselling & Psychology Service
CONTACT US:
p: 9603 0313
f: 9966 9908
e: info@newportcounselling.com.au
Halaxy SMS: 0448 817 949
Business Hours: Monday – Friday 9:00am-5:00pm
After Hours: If you have an after-hours/weekend appointment, you may contact your clinician via Halaxy SMS. NB: Administrative issues only.
www.newportcounselling.com.au
Halaxy Patient Portal | Bookings/Cancellations/Invoices (Please request to be invited to the portal if you do not have access)
Practitioners at this location
Occupational Therapist
Anthea sees adults (18+) values creating a warm and respectful environment, empowering clients to navigate challenges and transitions with kindness. Anthea practices from a strengths-based model of care, working collaboratively with clients to help them identify their own treatment goals.
Anthea has more than 12 years of experience working across inpatient, community, helpline and private mental health settings, supporting individuals, parents and infants with complex mental health and attachment related difficulties.
Anthea integrates various models of evidence-based therapy into her practice including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness. She is particularly interested in Attachment Theory and is a Registered Circle of Security Parent Educator.
Anthea provides clinical services to adolescents (aged 15+), adults and older adults and her interests include:
Depression and anxiety
Grief and loss
Post traumatic stress disorder (complex and single incident)
Perinatal mental health (perinatal depression and anxiety, fertility, adjustment to pregnancy, birth trauma, pregnancy loss, bonding and attachment, adjustment to parenthood)
Parenting (children aged up to 5)
Stress management
Interpersonal and relationship issues
Life transitions
Gender diversity
Anthea is an Endorsed Mental Health Occupational Therapist with additional training in Psychological Sciences. Clients with a Mental Health Treatment Plan are eligible for a Medicare rebate when they see Anthea.
Social Worker
Ian has a relaxed and engaging style and works to create a sense of safety and harmony for all clients. In the midst of difficult and intense emotional experiences, both safety and harmony are crucial to emotional movement from stuck patterns; in reality is no easy process. Ian provides support that allows for growth at a manageable speed on the safe edge of your comfort zone is a key to anxiety reduction, clearer communication and enriching connection with those you care for. The art of moving clearly between talking “about” to talking “with” offers an enhanced and more luminous relational experience with both yourself and others.
Ian is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Gestalt Therapist, Mediator and Registered Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner, Restorative Justice Facilitator and Clinical Supervisor. Ian has written a group manual for parents in post separation disputes, and is a group facilitator and trainer. He has worked as a restorative justice facilitator with the Defence Abuse Response Taskforce (DART) and is currently on the panel to provide similar services for the Office of the Commonwealth Ombudsman.
TELEHEALTH ONLY
Jay Dineen(He/him)
Social Worker
Jay is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker who embraces each client's unique story, identity, and strengths while helping them work toward meaningful life goals. Drawing from nearly 25 years of experience in schools as both a teacher and counselor, he brings deep insight into educational environments and youth development.
His additional experience in mental health and family services organizations has equipped him with comprehensive knowledge of support services and referral networks beyond counseling.
Social Worker
Kristen is a warm, meaningful and engaging clinician who is able to connect with a wide range of people. Kristen supports her clients to work at a pace directed by them, working with both past and current experiences. Kristen’s approach can be fun, validating and rewarding, albeit, sometimes challenging. Kristen is aware of holding the therapeutic safe space for reflection, so that people can develop a deeper level of insight into the way they perceive the world and those around them.
Kristen has been a qualified Social Worker for ~30 years and Clinical Family Therapist since 2002. Kristen spends her time providing clinical services, developing clinical leadership in private practice and is the co-founder of Newport Counselling & Psychology Service and Founder of the Being Held program. Kristen has previously worked for the Werribee Mercy Mental Health Program in a variety of managerial and clinical (Community Team and Mother Baby Services) roles.
Kristen is a registered AASW Clinical Supervisor for Clinical Supervision and Consultation.
Social Worker
Jackson Liu is a welcoming and easy-going Accredited Mental Health Social Worker who naturally builds trust with clients of all ages, particularly young people. Drawing from his Bachelor's in Psychology and Master's in Social Work, he has specialized training in ACT, DBT for teenagers, EFIT, and grief counseling. His extensive experience includes working as a Mental Health Practitioner and Student Counsellor in secondary schools, and he currently serves as a Mental Health Clinician in a local community clinic.
Social Worker
Matt Dellosa is a compassionate and dedicated Accredited Mental Health Social Worker. Holding a Master of Social Work from the University of Melbourne and as an active member of the Australian Association of Social Workers, Matt brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to client care.
Matt’s warm, empathetic approach helps clients feel safe, supported, and truly heard from the very first session. He fosters a non-judgmental space where individuals can explore their concerns at their own pace, while also providing thoughtful encouragement to challenge unhelpful patterns when needed. His person-centred approach ensures that therapy moves in a way that aligns with each client’s readiness, gently pushing when necessary to foster meaningful change.
With a professional background spanning youth justice, mental health, and both community and inpatient settings, Matt has extensive experience working with individuals navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, family violence, and substance use concerns. He takes a strength-based and holistic approach, integrating evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Schema Therapy, tailoring interventions to suit each client's unique needs.
Matt’s relaxed and down-to-earth demeanour makes it easier to discuss difficult topics, including those that may carry feelings of shame or vulnerability. He understands the courage it takes to open up and works alongside clients with genuine care, respect, and a commitment to their wellbeing. His goal is to empower individuals to build resilience, develop self-awareness, and create lasting positive change in their lives.
Psychologist
Psychologist
Medicare Registered Provider Number: 2932215F
HOURS
Tuesday 5:30-7:30pm TELEHEALTH ONLY
Saturday 9:00am - 1:00pm Face to face and Telehealth available
Ms Salva Crusca(She/her)
Social Worker
st in the treatment of trauma including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Complex PTSD, sexual abuse, sexual assault.
Salva has worked with adults who have experienced the effects of childhood trauma and with adults who have been in abusive relationships. Salva uses a range of interventions in helping people with mental health disorders, including the following focussed psychological strategies:
Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR)
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)
Behavioural Interventions
Relaxation strategies
Stress Management
Psycho-education
Family Therapy
Salva has worked with issues including depression, anxiety, family dysfunction, carer issues, relationship issues, trauma, PTSD. She utilises a mix of therapeutic interventions including EMDR, Family Therapy, Schema Therapy, Polyvagal Theory, Internal Family Systems, CBT, Mindfulness.
Salva has worked for 15 years in the public mental health sector with people experiencing serious mental illness (including young people with psychosis and in aged persons mental health). In recent years she has worked in the community sector in family violence (undertaking family therapy with mothers and children). In private practice. Salva has worked with Employee Assistance Program including Victoria Police and as a trauma counsellor at a Sexual Assault Centre (public sector).
She has post-graduate qualifications in Clinical Family Therapy and memberships with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) and the EMDR Association of Australia.
Salva is accepting referrals of persons of all ages.
Ms Susan Saxe(She/her)
Social Worker
Susan Saxe is an empathic and compassionate counsellor with over 25 years’ experience working with a diverse range of clients including youth, adults, families, and court-mandated clients.
Susan brings a personal approach to address clients’ needs to facilitate achievement of their goals. Her therapeutic style is embedded in empathy, active listening, and collaboration., She fosters a genuine connection that promotes growth and personal development.
Susan specialises in helping individuals overcome issues including (not limited to):
mental health (anxiety, depression, mood disorders, complex presentations/dual diagnosis, neurodiverse)
substance use (alcohol and other drugs) & addiction (including gambling)
family counselling and support
relationship difficulties
parenting support and education
family violence, trauma and abuse
loss & grief
risk of suicide, self harm
men’s behaviour change
culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities
physical and intellectual difficulties
LGBTIA+ community
older adults
Susan has successfully supported numerous clients towards positive and lasting change. She draws on her extensive experience and training in various therapeutic modalities, such as Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness, Acceptance & Commitment therapy (ACT), person-centred therapy, solution focused therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). She believes strongly in helping clients to build resilience, enhance their self-awareness and develop positive coping strategies.
Susan is known for her empathic and non-judgmental therapeutic style and wry sense of humour. By blending expertise with genuine care, Susan is dedicated to supporting clients towards emotional well-being in a confidential and affirming therapeutic space.
“When working with clients my commitment lies in providing a nurturing environment, cultivating safety and trust, and promoting a collaborative and empathic approach. I support clients on a journey of self-discovery, growth, and healing to unlock their full potential to navigate life’s challenges with confidence.”
Social Worker
Roni has a compassionate, attuned and warm approach to therapy, working collaboratively with clients at their unique pace. Roni provides therapeutic interventions to children, individuals, couples, and families. Roni utilises evidence-based approaches to address family and parenting issues, relationship distress including separation and divorce, depression, anxiety and self-esteem issues.
Roni is a Social Worker and Family Therapist who has specialist training and experience in providing grief and loss therapy to support clients living with chronic or terminal illness, those in caregiver roles, grief, non-finite losses and bereavement. Roni can also provide attachment focused play therapy to children (aged 3-10) to address trauma, anxiety, and family issues.
Rudy Gonzalez(He/him)
Psychologist
Rudy Gonzalez is a distinguished psychologist with an extensive background in trauma-informed care, specializing in counselling and psychotherapy for diverse populations. Educated at Victoria University, he achieved multiple degrees culminating in a Master of Applied Psychology. His professional journey includes significant roles where he implemented and led counseling programs in various settings, including correctional facilities, community health services, and secure welfare services. Notably, his work at the Lighthouse Foundation and The Cairnmillar Institute emphasized developing and managing therapeutic programs tailored to individuals with complex trauma histories, showcasing his expertise in psychological resilience and recovery.
Throughout his career, Rudy has focused on enhancing the capabilities of psychological practices to better support trauma survivors, notably refugees and at-risk youth. His tenure as General Manager at the Victorian Foundation for Survivors of Torture and as Director of Clinical Services at The Cairnmillar Institute highlights his commitment to advancing trauma-informed practices across psychological and counseling sectors. Rudy's contributions to the field extend to his published work and leadership in professional training sessions, aiming to elevate the standards of therapeutic care through evidence-based methodologies and community-focused interventions.
Areas of interest include:
Child and Adolescent Mental Health
Trauma Focused and Informed Practice
Trauma Oriented Practice
Community Psychology
Family Systems
Forensic Mental Health
Psychodynamic Approaches
Organisational Development
Clinical Program Development
Leadership Development
Evaluation and Research
Culturally Inclusive Practice
Clinical Supervision
Tiahn Biundo(She/her)
Social Worker
Tiahn is currently accepting referrals under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), private referrals and GP Mental Health Care Plan (however, no rebate will apply).
Tiahn accepts referrals for children (ages 5+, teenagers and adults).
Tiahn Biundo is an empathetic and compassionate clinician. Tiahn’s genuine and caring demeanour creates an atmosphere of trust for clients to openly share their thoughts and feelings. Tiahn acknowledges her warm and engaging spirit as apart of her approach and therapeutic relationship.
Grounded in a profound understanding of both Psychology and Social Work, Tiahn has devoted her career to creating a positive impact on the mental and emotional well-being of individuals. Tiahn is a qualified Social Worker with an educational background in Social Science (Psychology) and Social Work (Honours). Having worked in various school settings over time, Tiahn has gained valuable knowledge and experience in providing support to children and adolescents. Tiahn is experienced at engaging young people that struggle to connect and promoting transformative change within a safe and encouraging space. Tiahn regularly facilitates successful group programs for adolescents to nurture belonging, feelings, social skills, decision making and more.
Areas of Interest:
Anxiety & Depression
Behavioural Issues
Self Esteem & Confidence
Bullying
School Refusal
Neurodivergent Presentations
Learning and Speech Difficulties
Relationships
Anger Management
Trauma
Abuse
Self Harm & Suicidal Ideation
Therapeutic Approaches:
Play Therapy Approaches
Strengths Based Approaches
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Attachment Theory
Critical Theory
Motivational Interviewing
Parent Education and Support
Behavioural Suport
Management Plans (including interventions)
Group Programs for Children & Adolescents
School Holiday Support
Psychologist
03 9603 0313(Landline)Tim Jezard is a registered psychologist with over 20 years experience in both government and non-government sectors. Historically Tim worked in the alcohol and drug field with adults, young people and their families and for the past 20 years, he has been working with young children, adolescents and their families in a number of independent schools across Melbourne. Since the start of 2023, Tim has decided to focus on working full time at Newport, providing private counselling and psychotherapy to individuals in the local community.
Tim specialises in working with individuals with anxiety and depression, school based issues (bullying, gaming and social media issues, academic performance, motivation, gender identity, etc), substance dependence, relationship difficulties (including separation/divorce) and general parenting issues. He has conducted numerous presentations on relationships, restorative practices (mediation), child safety and behavioural issues, positive psychology and has conducted research into treatment effectiveness and emotional intelligence.
Tim also has experience in policy development, education and training, and research and evaluation and is available to conduct workshops for organisations, parents, students, teachers and health professionals on a wide range of topics. He is a Psychology Board of Australia approved supervisor and provides regular supervision for post graduate students and school counsellors.