FAQ - Family Dispute Resolution (FDR)

  • Can you explain Family Dispute Resolution (FDR)?

    Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) is a type of mediation that helps separated or separating families resolve disagreements, especially around parenting, property, and finances, without going to court. It's about creating solutions together in a safe, structured environment.

  • Do we have to like or get along with each other for FDR to work?

    Not at all! Many families come to FDR because things are tense or communication has broken down. The mediator is there to guide the conversation and keep things calm, respectful, and productive.

  • What issues can be discussed in FDR?

    Parenting arrangements, where children live, how decisions are made, dividing property or finances, and any other important matters that come up when a family separates.

  • Is FDR required before going to court?

    Yes, usually. The law in Australia generally requires you to try Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) if your parenting matter is going to court unless there are serious concerns like family violence or safety risks.

  • What happens if we can’t reach an agreement?

    The FDR practitioner can issue a Section 60I certificate if an agreement isn’t reached. You may need this if you decide to go to family court, though many families do find common ground with the right support.

  • Is FDR legally binding?

    Not automatically – an agreement can be made into formal parenting plans or financial agreements. You can choose to have them legally formalised through a lawyer or the court if needed.

  • How long does it take?

    It depends on the complexity of the issues and how ready both parties are to engage. Some families resolve things in one or two sessions, while others need a bit more time.

  • Can I bring a support person or lawyer?

    Yes, in many cases. Let your FDR practitioner know in advance and they’ll discuss how this can work best.

  • Is FDR safe if there’s a history of family violence?

    Safety always comes first. If there are concerns around violence, coercion, or intimidation, the practitioner will assess whether FDR is appropriate or suggest safer alternatives.

FAQ - Counselling & Psychotherapy

  • What actually is counselling?

    Counselling is a safe, confidential space where you can talk to an experienced, qualified, and registered professional about anything - whether it’s stress, relationships, anxiety, or just feeling stuck. It's about being heard, understood, and supported as you explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences.

  • How do I know if I need counselling?

    Counselling can help if you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, sad, lost, or just not like yourself. You don’t need to be in crisis to benefit, if something’s affecting your well-being, it’s worth reaching out.

  • What happens in a counselling session?

    Each session is a little different, depending on your needs. You might talk through challenges, explore emotions, learn coping strategies, or just have space to reflect. It's a judgment-free zone where the focus is on you.

  • Is everything I say confidential?

    Yes - your privacy is super important. Everything you share stays between you and your counsellor. Your counsellor will discuss any exceptions upfront, like situations where there’s a risk of harm to yourself or others, or legal obligations.

  • How long do sessions last?

    Sessions at Halo Journey typically run for about 60 minutes. For couples or family therapy sessions, we usually allow around 90 minutes so everyone has space to share and be heard. We understand that every journey is unique, so if you’d like a little more time or prefer a shorter session, just let us know - we’re flexible and happy to tailor the session length to suit your needs.

  • How many counselling sessions will i need?

    It varies from person to person! Some people benefit from just a few sessions, while others choose longer-term support. We’ll work with you to figure out what feels right.

  • Do I need a referral?

    Nope! You can book directly with us - no GP referral needed.

  • Can I do counselling online?

    Absolutely. All of our counselling and psychotherapy services are exclusively online, so you can access support from anywhere that feels comfortable and private.

  • Is counselling only for people with mental health diagnoses?

    Not at all. Counselling is for everyone - whether you're navigating a big life change, relationship drama, burnout, parenting challenges, or just need space to breathe and reflect.

  • What’s the difference between a counsellor and a psychologist?

    Counsellors focus on talk therapy and emotional support, while psychologists may also diagnose and treat mental health conditions. Both can be helpful, but their training and approaches differ. The best fit depends on your needs - give us a call if you’re unsure!

FAQ - Life Coaching

  • What is life coaching, exactly?

    Life coaching is a supportive, goal-focused process that helps you clarify what you want. It empowers you to overcome obstacles and take action toward creating the life you truly want to live. Coaching is focused on the future and all about moving forward.

  • How is life coaching different from counselling or therapy?

    Great question! In counselling, you heal by exploring your past and emotions. Life coaching is more about setting goals, building confidence, and creating strategies to move ahead. You don’t have to choose just one - many people benefit from both at different times.

  • What kind of things can a life coach help me with?

    So much! From career changes, confidence building, goal setting, and decision-making to work-life balance, motivation, or even figuring out what’s next, life coaching helps you get unstuck and start moving.

  • Do I need to have a big problem to work with a coach?

    Not at all! Life coaching isn’t just for “fixing” something – it’s also about growing, evolving, and reaching your full potential. Coaching can be incredibly powerful – whether you’re feeling stuck or simply want more out of life.

  • How many sessions will I need?

    That depends on your goals, but your coach will help create a plan that fits you! Some people book just a few sessions to work through a specific challenge, while others continue longer for ongoing support and momentum.

  • Is life coaching done online or in person?

    Most life coaching is done online so you can connect from anywhere – whether in your comfiest clothes or have a coffee in hand. Some coaches offer in-person sessions too, depending on location.

  • Will a coach tell me what to do?

    Nope! Your coach won’t give you all the answers—but they will help you find your own. Through powerful questions, encouragement, and honest reflection, coaching helps you tap into your own inner wisdom and confidence.

  • Is life coaching confidential?

    Yes - what you share in coaching sessions is private and confidential. It’s a safe space to be real, open, and totally yourself.

  • Can life coaching really make a difference?

    Absolutely. People often leave coaching sessions feeling more focused, motivated, clear, and capable than ever before. It’s not magic - but it does feel pretty magical sometimes.

  • Is coaching the right fit for me?

    If you're ready to grow, shift, or level up in any area of life, coaching can help. You'll have someone in your corner to support and challenge you. Start with a discovery call to see if it's the right fit for you.

FAQ - Parent & Adolescent Mediation

  • What if my teenager doesn't want to participate? Can I force them to go?

    Mediation is a voluntary process and all parties must be willing to participate in mediation. No-one can be forced to attend a Mediation.

  • Can a teenager inquire about the service before discussing it with their parents?

    Absolutely. Either the parent(s)/guardian(s) or the teenager can start the process.

  • Is the process the same for Parent and Adolescent Mediation as for other types of mediation?

    The process is a little bit different. The initial one-hour intake consultation will always be for the adolescent first and following that, an initial intake consultation will be held with the parent(s)/guardian(s). The length of the joint mediation session may also vary depending on the circumstances and individual needs of the family members. This will be discussed with each party at the initial intake consultations and then determined by the Mediator and communicated to the parties prior to booking in the joint mediation session.

  • Is mediation a good choice for every family?

    Parent and Adolescent Mediation is a great option and works well for a lot of families, however, not all. In the initial intake consultations, the Mediator will make an assessment about whether or not Parent and Adolescent Mediation is appropriate in your situation. The Mediator will be able to make referrals to other services if it is not.

  • How much experience have the Halo Journey Mediators had working with families and Adolescents?


    A lot! Chloe has been working with young people professionally for 20 years and counting. Her experience working with families and teenagers in particular has been facilitated in schools, drug and alcohol rehabilitation, in private practice and voluntarily across various community groups and charities. She has formal qualifications and has previously worked with young people in the professional capacity of being a Chaplain, Youth Worker, Counsellor, Psychotherapist, and Public Speaker. Chloe is now dedicating her time professionally to working as a Facilitative Mediator and growing Halo Journey with the aim of being a leader of choice across Australia in Professional People Helping.

  • How does Halo Journey advocate for and protect the safety and wellbeing of young people?

    All children who access services at Halo Journey have a right to feel and be safe. The welfare of the children in our care will always be our first priority and we have a zero-tolerance approach to child abuse and harm. We aim to create a child safe and child-friendly online environment where children feel safe. Find out more about our commitment to child safety and wellbeing here.

Get in touch

Whether you’re ready to book or just want to learn more, we’re only a message away

Email: info@halojourney.com.au

Phone: +61 414 975 728

Monday to Sunday 7 days a week 8:00am - 10:00pm (AEST)

Supporting Australia-wide, wherever you are

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