At Talking Cure, we know that starting therapy can come with a lot of questions. Whether you’re unsure how to book, wondering what therapy is like, or curious about ACC cover — we’re here to help. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we’re asked.
If you don’t find what you’re looking for, feel free to get in touch. We’re always happy to help.
How can I make an appointment?
The easiest way to get started is by filling out the contact form on our website, sending us an email, or giving us a call. Our phone is managed by Liz, our practice manager, who will make sure your message reaches the right person.
From there, someone on our team will be in touch to offer a brief phone consultation to understand what you’re looking for and help match you with the right therapist.
You don’t need a referral from a GP or any other professional to begin therapy with us — just reach out directly.
What if I can’t make my appointment?
If you need to cancel or reschedule, just let us know at least 24 hours in advance — there’s no fee for that.
If you cancel with less than 24 hours’ notice or don’t attend your appointment, the full session fee applies. (This helps us cover the time we’ve set aside for you.)
If you’re an ACC client, you won’t be charged a fee, but repeated missed sessions may affect your ability to continue with ACC-funded therapy. If something unexpected comes up, please let us know — we’re always open to conversation.
Is therapy confidential?
Yes. Everything you share in therapy is private and confidential.
There are a few legal exceptions — for example, if there is a serious risk of harm to you or someone else, or if there’s a legal obligation to disclose. If these situations ever arise, we’ll talk with you openly about what needs to happen and why.
If you’re an ACC client, there are some additional confidentiality considerations. ACC requires occasional written reports from your therapist to support your ongoing care. These are shared only with ACC and your therapist will always discuss the content with you beforehand. Nothing is sent without your knowledge.
Otherwise, your privacy is fully protected.
Am I eligible for ACC Sensitive Claims?
If you’ve experienced sexual abuse, assault, or any sexual act against your will — in New Zealand or while overseas as a New Zealander — you are likely eligible for fully funded therapy through ACC’s Sensitive Claims pathway.
To meet ACC’s criteria, there needs to be both a qualifying experience and some impact on your mental health — but this can include a wide range of effects, from anxiety or depression to a general sense that something’s not right. If you’re coming to therapy, that’s usually enough.
It doesn’t matter how long ago it happened, whether it was ever reported, how serious it seemed, or how much you feel it’s affected you. You’re allowed to get support.
If you’re unsure, just get in touch. You’ll be eligible for at least six initial sessions while we explore this together — no forms, no pressure.
How do I start an ACC Sensitive Claim?
You don’t need a GP referral or to contact ACC first — you can come straight to us.
Once we match you with a therapist, you can begin your first few sessions without needing to share anything in detail. There’s no need to prove anything — just show up as you are. Your therapist will work at your pace and guide you through the process.
When you’re ready, your therapist will complete the necessary ACC paperwork and assessment. We’ll take care of everything behind the scenes so you don’t have to manage forms or systems on your own.
How long does therapy last — and how often are sessions?
There’s no fixed length of therapy. Some people come for just a few sessions to work through a specific issue or decision point. Others engage in longer-term work that supports deeper change and ongoing personal or professional growth.
We typically recommend starting with weekly sessions — especially early on — as it helps build momentum and establish a solid foundation. If you’re funded through ACC, weekly sessions are fully covered. But therapy doesn’t need to be weekly to be effective. Some clients prefer to meet fortnightly, monthly, or on an as-needed basis. Others schedule one-off sessions from time to time to stay grounded or check in during a challenging season.
We’ll work with you to find a rhythm that fits your needs, goals, and availability — and adjust as things evolve.
Do you offer online therapy?
Yes — we offer both in-person and online therapy via secure video platforms like Zoom. Some clients prefer to work entirely online, while others alternate between online and in-person sessions depending on what works best.
Let us know what you need when you get in touch, or talk with your therapist about flexible options once you’ve started.
What kinds of therapy do you offer?
Our team includes psychologists, psychotherapists, and counsellors trained in a wide range of modalities — including psychodynamic therapy, relational work, EMDR, creative and body-based therapies, trauma-informed approaches, and more.
Each therapist works a little differently, but we all aim for depth, integrity, and genuine care in the work we do.
What does therapy cost?
Our standard fee for private therapy is $207 (incl. GST) for a 50-minute session.
We also offer extended 90-minute sessions or one-time consultations — feel free to ask us about options. In some cases, we’re open to payment plans or spreading payments out over time.
Some insurance providers offer mental health cover — please check with your provider directly to see what’s included in your plan.
What are your opening hours?
We offer appointments Monday to Thursday from 9am to 9pm, and Fridays from 9am to 6pm.
Because our therapists work on different days and hours, we’ll do our best to find a time that fits your schedule. Some evening appointments are available.