We partner with Support Coordinators to deliver clinical-grade counselling, psychosocial assessments and screenings, and tailored therapeutic programs for NDIS participants.
Accreditations & Professional Memberships
We know your caseload is heavy, your time is scarce, and you can't afford providers who add to the chaos. Here's how we make your job easier — from the first referral to the final report.
You don't have time to chase us. When you send a referral, you'll get a confirmation email within one business day. We'll contact the participant directly within 48 hours to schedule intake. You don't need to follow up. We've got it.
We know the frustration of getting a report back that is clinically sound but useless for a Plan Review. Our reports are written specifically for NDIA planners:
Use our secure online portal in under 3 minutes.
We review clinical notes and contact the participant.
Scheduled within 1-2 weeks. Service agreements signed.
Evidence-based programs aligned with NDIS goals.
Clinical-grade documentation provided for Plan Reviews.
Prefer email over online portals? Click here to use our pre-filled Referral Email Template
We provide tailored therapeutic support and assessments designed to meet your specific clinical or daily living needs.
Individual clinical counselling designed to build psychosocial capacity. We focus on emotional regulation, social communication, and overcoming psychological barriers in everyday settings.
Rigorous evaluations of psychosocial functioning using 43 validated screening tools (e.g., WHODAS 2.0). We generate high-quality clinical evidence required for NDIS Plan Reviews.
Empathetic, assessment-driven counselling for individuals dealing with life stressors, relationship changes, or burnout. Available via secure telehealth Australia-wide.
Explore how we translate complex emotional challenges into clear, functional impacts for NDIS Plan Reviews—strictly within the counselling scope.
Severe social anxiety and emotional dysregulation preventing independent community access and transport.
Comprehensive psychosocial screening (LSNS-6, GAD-7) exploring emotional barriers, translating findings into actionable support recommendations.
Burnout and chronic distress in the support network, risking the sustainability of current living arrangements.
Evaluating caregiver strain (ZBI) and participant coping strategies, resulting in funded therapeutic support for emotional regulation.
Review our professional, clinical-grade reports. All participant details are entirely fictionalized to protect privacy.
Comprehensive NDIS assessment utilizing GAD-7, PHQ-9, and WHODAS 2.0 to demonstrate functional impact.
Detailed clinical progress update comparing screening scores over time to demonstrate ongoing support needs for NDIS Plan Reviews.
Detailed clinical summary compiled after completing a structured therapeutic program package, highlighting outcomes and transition care recommendations.
Example of our NDIS/private practice invoice layout. We support automatic, fast online payments via Stripe for easy, secure, and instant bank transfers.
While we provide comprehensive psychosocial screening (e.g., ASRS v1.1 for ADHD screening, AQ-10 for ASD screening), formal clinical diagnoses must be conducted by qualified specialists. We proudly collaborate with diagnostic professionals and refer our clients to trusted clinics in our region.
For formal diagnosis of complex mental health conditions, ASD, and ADHD medication management.
Referral mapping available during intakeFor psychometric testing, formal cognitive assessments, and official diagnostic reports. (These services are outside our scope and provided by our diagnostic partners)
Collaborative care approachRead representative feedback illustrating the impact of our assessment-driven, neurodivergent-affirming, and professional support approach.
"Working with Horizons has been a breath of fresh air. Their 24-hour response time is real, and the clinical reports are returned without me needing to follow up. They are written in exact NDIS-ready language, which has made our Plan Reviews incredibly straightforward."
"I approached Aleksandra during a period of severe burnout and anxiety. Unlike standard 'chat therapy' I had tried before, the assessment-driven model here gave me clear, objective insights into my symptoms. The telehealth sessions were convenient, empathetic, and highly practical."
"Finding a clinical counsellor who actually understands neurodivergent teens was a turning point for our family. The strategies taught in therapy have massively improved our daughter's emotional regulation and independence at school. The progress notes are incredibly detailed and supportive."
This ensures complete transparency. You only pay for comprehensive reports when you actually need them (e.g., for NDIS Plan Reviews), rather than having the costs bundled into every session fee whether you need a report or not.
Senior Mental Health Support Specialist & ACA Registered Counsellor
Aleksandra is an internationally experienced clinical counsellor with over 8 years of practice across diverse cultural and clinical settings. She holds a Bachelor of Pedagogy with a specialization in Counselling and Care.
As a Senior Mental Health Support Specialist, Aleksandra brings a unique combination of clinical depth and empathy. She is an expert in supporting neurodivergent individuals (Autism Spectrum, ADHD) and specializes in crisis intervention utilizing CBT, systemic, and psychodynamic approaches.
Beyond her clinical practice, Aleksandra is a dedicated advocate for mental health. She is the author of numerous mental health publications, co-author of the popular science magazine MENTE, a former operations director for charities, and the creator of multiple social aid projects for families in need.
Our clinical practice is strictly governed by ongoing, regular professional clinical supervision in accordance with ACA/PACFA ethical frameworks, ensuring the highest standard of care for complex and high-risk cases.
We provide flexible support tailored to your needs. This includes community outreach (in-home visits in the Mackay region), secure telehealth (via Google Meet or phone) across Australia, and in-person sessions at our private home office in central Mackay.
Please note: Our home office operates strictly by appointment only (no walk-ins). This policy is strictly enforced every day. We strongly encourage using our Referral Portal or emailing us to initiate contact.
26 River Street
Mackay QLD 4740
(Strictly by appointment only – no walk-ins accepted)
0401 413 634
If we are working or in a session, we will call you back as soon as possible.
Everything you need to know about our practice, NDIS, and private billing.
We currently have low to no waitlist for new referrals. Most participants are contacted within 48 hours of submitting a referral, and initial assessment sessions are typically scheduled within 1-2 weeks.
No. As ACA Registered Counsellors, we do not provide formal clinical diagnoses. We conduct comprehensive screening assessments (e.g., DIVA-5 for ADHD, AQ-10 for Autism) that can be used by psychologists or psychiatrists to support their diagnostic process. If you need a formal diagnosis, we refer our clients to trusted diagnostic specialists in Mackay.
Yes. Our comprehensive Psychosocial Assessment includes a full clinical report designed specifically for NDIS Plan Reviews. It features clear functional impact analysis (using WHODAS 2.0 and other tools) and evidence-based funding recommendations. Note: Document drafting is billed at the standard hourly rate.
Absolutely. Complex psychosocial presentations, high-risk cases, trauma, and neurodivergent clients are our specialty. Our comprehensive assessment library of 43 tools allows us to precisely tailor our approach to each participant's unique risk profile and therapeutic needs.
No. As ACA Registered Counsellors, you can access our services directly without a GP referral or a Mental Health Care Plan. Simply submit a referral through our portal.
Unfortunately, no. Medicare rebates are only available for psychologists and social workers. However, our private rates are strictly aligned with standard NDIS rates, ensuring fair and transparent pricing. Some private health insurance funds may also offer partial rebates.
A Psychosocial Assessment is a comprehensive evaluation of a participant's psychological and social functioning. Unlike a clinical diagnosis (which is provided by psychologists or psychiatrists), our assessment focuses on the practical, functional impact of mental health challenges on a participant's daily life and their ability to participate in the community.
What we evaluate during the assessment:
How we do it:
What we DO NOT do:
What you receive:
Who is it for?
Our reports are professional clinical documents that serve as vital evidence for the NDIS and practical, actionable tools for Support Coordinators.
Report Structure:
Types of reports we provide:
Comprehensive baseline evaluation at the start of support. Includes baseline measurements and recommendations for support hours.
Duration: 9 hours (4h interviews + 4h analysis/report + 1h feedback)
Cost: $1,405.44 (9h × $156.16)
Updates on participant progress. Comparison of screening results (before vs. after). Recommendations for continuing or modifying support.
Duration: 4 hours
Cost: $624.64 (4h × $156.16)
Summary after the completion of a therapeutic program. Outcome measurements (what has improved) and recommendations for next steps.
Duration: 4 hours
Cost: $624.64 (4h × $156.16)
Specialist report specifically for NDIS Plan Reviews. Evidence-based justification for continued funding. Demonstrates progress and ongoing needs.
Duration: 4-5 hours
Cost: $624.64 - $780.80
What are these reports used for?
What our reports DO NOT contain:
Real Outcome Example:
"After a 6-month therapeutic program, the participant reduced their anxiety level from Severe (GAD-7: 18) to Mild (GAD-7: 8), expanded their social network from 2 to 8 people (LSNS-6), and independently uses 4+ coping strategies. The Progress Report provided the evidence for NDIS to approve continued funding for therapeutic supports for the next 12 months."
Pricing and Billing:
How to order a report?
These are three distinct allied health professions, each with different qualifications, scope of practice, and areas of expertise. Understanding these differences helps you access the right support for your needs.
Qualifications: Bachelor or Master degree in Counselling, Psychotherapy, or related field; Registered with professional body (e.g., ACA Level 2, PACFA); Ongoing professional development and clinical supervision required.
Scope of Practice:
Best for: Mental health support, therapeutic counselling, psychosocial assessments, NDIS reporting, building coping skills, emotional regulation, and community participation support.
Qualifications: Minimum 6 years of university training (Bachelor + Master/Doctorate in Psychology); Registered with Psychology Board of Australia (AHPRA); Can specialise further (e.g., Clinical Psychologist, Neuropsychologist).
Scope of Practice:
Best for: Formal diagnostic assessments (ASD, ADHD, cognitive impairment), complex psychological assessments, Medicare-rebated therapy, court reports, and forensic assessments.
Qualifications: Bachelor or Master degree in Occupational Therapy; Registered with Occupational Therapy Board of Australia (AHPRA); Can specialise in sensory processing, physical rehabilitation, or mental health.
Scope of Practice:
Best for: Home modification assessments, assistive technology prescriptions, sensory processing assessments, physical rehabilitation, and functional capacity assessments.
HOW WE WORK TOGETHER
We believe in collaborative, multidisciplinary care. Often, participants benefit from support across multiple disciplines. For example, a participant with suspected Autism Spectrum Disorder might work with a Psychologist for a formal diagnostic assessment, a Counsellor (us) for therapeutic support for anxiety/social skills, an OT for sensory profiles/home mods, and a PBS Practitioner for a Behaviour Support Plan.
When to refer to other specialists: Need formal diagnosis? → Psychologist or Psychiatrist. Need home mods/sensory assessment? → OT. Need Behaviour Support Plan? → PBS Practitioner. Need therapeutic counselling and psychosocial support? → Counsellor (us).
These are three different types of assessments, each with a distinct focus and purpose. Understanding the differences helps you access the right assessment for your needs.
A detailed assessment conducted by a qualified PBS Practitioner to understand the function (purpose) of specific behaviours of concern (triggers, antecedents, consequences).
Specialist Behaviour Support
A comprehensive, individualised plan developed by a PBS Practitioner to reduce behaviours of concern and improve quality of life using proactive, skills-based strategies.
Specialist Behaviour Support
A comprehensive evaluation conducted by a Registered Counsellor to evaluate mental health, emotional wellbeing, social functioning, and coping capacity.
Capacity Building - Daily Living
| Aspect | FBA | BSP | Psychosocial Assessment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Focus | Behaviour function | Behaviour reduction & skill building | Mental health & psychosocial functioning |
| Conducted by | PBS Practitioner | PBS Practitioner | Counsellor / Psychologist |
| Output | Functional analysis report | Behaviour Support Plan | Psychosocial assessment report |
| NDIS Category | Specialist Behaviour Support | Specialist Behaviour Support | Capacity Building - Daily Living |
HOW THEY WORK TOGETHER
These assessments are complementary, not competing. A participant with complex needs may benefit from multiple assessments. E.g. an FBA to understand aggressive triggers, a BSP to establish proactive interventions, and a Psychosocial Assessment (us) to treat the underlying anxiety and teach coping skills.
WHAT WE DO NOT PROVIDE
❌ We do NOT conduct FBAs, develop BSPs, or work with behaviours of concern requiring behaviour-specific intervention. If you need these, we can provide a referral to a qualified PBS Practitioner in our network.
Explore our articles to better understand the counselling process, the difference between screening and diagnosis, and the professional standards of clinical care in Australia.
Discover the day-to-day role of a clinical counsellor, how they differ from generic 'talk therapists', and why an assessment-driven approach yields better outcomes.
Read ArticleA clear guide explaining why counsellors use screening tools (like DIVA-5) to inform therapy, and why formal diagnoses must remain the strict domain of psychologists.
Read ArticleAn exploration of modern psychosocial challenges, chronic stress, trauma, and why structured therapeutic intervention is critical for maintaining functional capacity.
Read ArticleAre clinical counsellors equivalent to psychologists and social workers? Explore the HPI-I national registry, scope of practice, and how ACA and PACFA govern the profession in Australia.
Read ArticleNot an NDIS participant? No problem. We welcome private clients seeking professional, assessment-driven counselling without the need for a GP referral or Mental Health Care Plan.
"If you're reading this because you're struggling, feeling overwhelmed, or tired of fighting for the support you deserve — we see you. You don't need another label; you need someone who will listen, understand your psychosocial challenges, and help you navigate the system. You are not just a file number to us."
Providing a safe space to process overwhelming emotions, learn grounding techniques, and rebuild your confidence.
Tailored, neurodiversity-affirming strategies for individuals with Autism or ADHD to navigate sensory overload and executive dysfunction.
Practical support when coping with major changes, relationship shifts, caregiver burnout, or navigating new diagnoses.
Unlike many practices that offer unstructured "chat therapy", we utilise a systematic approach. With access to 43 evidence-based screening tools, we ensure you receive targeted, effective support from the very first session.
In-depth clinical interview, administration of relevant screening tools, and Mental State Examination to establish a baseline.
Evidence-based interventions (CBT, ACT, mindfulness-based techniques) delivered flexibly via Google Meet or in-person by appointment.
If formal diagnosis is needed, we prepare screening reports and refer you to trusted diagnostic clinics.
Our private billing aligns strictly with the standard NDIS hourly rate to ensure transparent, straightforward, and fair pricing for all our clients.
Telehealth & Online: Standard sessions are delivered securely online via Google Meet or other convenient tools.
Medicare & Rebates: As ACA Registered Counsellors, private sessions are not eligible for Medicare rebates. Some private health funds may offer partial rebates.
Payments & Invoices: Invoices are issued with integrated quick online payment options for secure, easy, and instant bank transfers.
We provide rigorous clinical screening and functional impact assessments.
We do NOT provide formal clinical diagnoses.
Most counselling practices rely on unstructured conversation. We utilise 43 evidence-based, standardised screening instruments to accurately identify concerns, tailor therapy, and track progress objectively.
12 tools for anxiety, depression, stress.
Supporting diagnostic referrals.
Crucial for NDIS capacity building.
For Substance Use, OCD, Eating Attitudes, and Continuous Outcome Monitoring (ORS/SRS).
Streamlined referral process for NDIS and Private clients
How will the counselling sessions be funded?
Last Updated: 22 June 2026
Horizons Clinical Counsellors (ABN: 33 257 573 623, 26 River Street, Mackay QLD 4740, Email: office@horizonscc.com.au, Phone: 0401 413 634, Website: www.horizonscc.com.au) is committed to protecting your privacy.
Horizons Clinical Counsellors ("we", "our", or "us") is committed to protecting your privacy and handling your personal information in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth), including the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs), and other applicable privacy laws.
This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and store your personal information when you access our website www.horizonscc.com.au or engage our clinical counselling services.
We may collect the following types of personal information:
As a clinical counselling practice, we collect sensitive health information including:
When you visit our website, we may automatically collect:
We collect personal information through:
Where reasonable and practicable, we will collect personal information directly from you. If we collect information from a third party (e.g., your GP, support coordinator, or family member), we will take reasonable steps to ensure you are aware of this collection unless it would pose a serious threat to life or health.
We collect, hold, use, and disclose your personal information for the following purposes:
We may disclose your personal information to:
We may engage third-party service providers who may have access to your personal information, including IT and cloud storage providers, payment processors, telehealth platform providers, and professional advisors (accountants, lawyers).
All third-party service providers are required to comply with the Australian Privacy Principles and maintain the confidentiality and security of your information.
Your personal and health information is stored in secure, password-protected electronic health record systems, encrypted cloud storage platforms compliant with Australian data protection standards, and secure email systems for communications.
Any paper records are stored in locked filing cabinets in secure premises, accessible only to authorised staff.
We implement password protection, encryption, regular backups, access controls, secure disposal, and staff privacy training.
Health records are retained for a minimum of 7 years from last contact for adults, and until age 25 for minors. NDIS-related records are retained for a minimum of 5 years, and financial records for a minimum of 7 years. Afterwards, we securely destroy or de-identify the information.
You have the right to request access to the personal information we hold about you by contacting us in writing at office@horizonscc.com.au or 26 River Street, Mackay QLD 4740.
We will respond to your request within 30 days and provide access in a reasonable format. In some circumstances (e.g., serious threat to life or safety, privacy of others), we may deny access and will provide written reasons.
You also have the right to request correction of inaccurate, out-of-date, or incomplete information.
Where lawful and practicable, you may choose to interact with us anonymously or use a pseudonym. However, this may limit our ability to provide clinical counselling services. For NDIS participants, accurate identification is required to claim payments and provide reports.
Our website uses cookies to enhance user experience and analyse website traffic. You can disable cookies in your browser settings. We may also use Google Analytics (opt-out available via Google's opt-out tool). We are not responsible for the privacy practices of external websites linked from our page.
We do not engage in direct marketing using your personal information unless you have provided explicit consent. You can unsubscribe from any newsletter or updates at any time by emailing office@horizonscc.com.au.
We are unlikely to disclose your personal information to overseas recipients. If we need to do so, we will take steps to ensure they comply with the APPs and obtain your consent where required.
If you believe we have breached your privacy, please email us at office@horizonscc.com.au. We will acknowledge within 7 days and respond within 30 days. If not satisfied, you can escalate to the OAIC (1300 363 992) or the NDIS Commission (1800 035 544).
We may update this policy. We will notify you of significant changes by posting the updated version on our website with a revised "Last Updated" date.
As a registered member of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA), we are bound by the ACA Code of Ethics and Practice Guidelines. Learn more at www.theaca.net.au.
For questions or comments, please contact Aleksandra Gorczynska-Kolodziej at office@horizonscc.com.au or 0401 413 634.
Last Updated: 22 June 2026
By accessing our website www.horizonscc.com.au or engaging our clinical counselling services, you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service.
Horizons Clinical Counsellors ("we", "our", or "us") provides its services and website subject to these Terms. If you do not agree, please do not use our website or services. We reserve the right to modify these Terms at any time.
We provide individual clinical counselling, psychosocial assessments/screenings, and NDIS progress reports. Our principal clinician, Aleksandra Gorczynska-Kolodziej, is an ACA registered member (No: 86625).
Scope of Practice: We do NOT provide psychiatric medical management, formal diagnostic assessments (e.g., ADHD/ASD), or physical functional capacity assessments. We collaborate with external diagnostic partners for services outside our scope.
You must be 18 years or older (or have parent/guardian consent) and have the capacity to provide informed consent to engage our services.
Appointments can be booked via email or phone. Standard therapy is 60 minutes; initial intake is 90 minutes. We support Telehealth Australia-wide and in-person/home visits in Mackay by arrangement.
Cancellation Policy:
Cancellation fees apply to NDIS participants as per the NDIS Pricing Arrangements.
Our fees are aligned with the NDIS Pricing Arrangements:
Payments can be made via PayID, bank transfer, card, or plan-managed NDIS invoice. Private client payments are due at the time of service.
We provide NDIS therapeutic supports under Capacity Building - Improved Daily Living. You agree to sign a Service Agreement and ensure sufficient funding exists in your plan.
All clinical information is strictly confidential. Exceptions include serious and imminent threat to safety, mandatory reporting of child abuse/neglect, or legal orders/subpoenas.
Clients are expected to provide accurate health details, participate actively, treat staff with respect, and avoid threatening behaviour or unauthorized recording of sessions.
We assess client suitability for telehealth. Clients must be in Australia at the time of sessions. If in crisis, call emergency services (000) or Lifeline (13 11 14) directly.
Either party may terminate the services. We will provide 2-4 weeks' notice and transition details, unless immediate termination is required due to safety threats.
Counselling outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Our services are not a substitute for psychiatric or medical treatments. Our liability is limited to fees paid for the service in question.
All website content and clinical materials provided are the property of Horizons Clinical Counsellors and protected by copyright law.
These terms are governed by the laws of Queensland, Australia. Any disputes are subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of Queensland courts.
If you have any questions, contact us at office@horizonscc.com.au or phone 0401 413 634.