Client guide
Resources
Clear information for a more informed first step.
Short, practical guides for people considering therapy, families supporting a young person and referrers helping someone navigate care.
Downloadable resources
Practical information to keep or share.
These Axis-branded PDFs are open to download. They are general resources and do not replace individual assessment, clinical advice or emergency care.
GP and referrer guide
How to refer to Axis
Scope, referral steps, information to include and what referrers can expect.Download PDFProfessional referral
Blank referral form
A print-ready form with direct email return instructions. Do not send urgent clinical information through the website or by email.Download PDFGuide 01
Preparing for a first appointment
You do not need a polished account of what is wrong. A few notes can make the first conversation easier.
- 01What has prompted you to seek help now
- 02How the concern affects daily life, relationships, work or study
- 03Previous therapy, medication or strategies that were helpful or unhelpful
- 04Current supports, important health information and any immediate safety concern
- 05What you would most like to be different
Guide 02
What trauma therapy can involve
Trauma-focused work is broader than revisiting a memory. Good preparation and pacing are clinical work in their own right.
- 01Understanding current symptoms, triggers and patterns
- 02Building safety, emotional regulation and ways to return to the present
- 03Agreeing on goals and choosing an appropriate method
- 04Processing selected material only when there is enough readiness
- 05Integrating change into relationships, identity and daily life
Guide 03
Supporting a young person to attend therapy
Young people are more likely to engage when adults explain the purpose honestly and leave room for their questions.
- 01Describe therapy as a place to understand and work on a problem, not a punishment
- 02Avoid promising complete secrecy or demanding a detailed report after every session
- 03Let them know they can ask how confidentiality works
- 04Share key information with the psychologist without asking the young person to carry every message
- 05Expect the process and adult involvement to change with age and need
Guide 04
Understanding exposure and response prevention
ERP is a well-established behavioural approach for OCD and related patterns. It is planned collaboratively, not imposed without preparation.
- 01Identify the situations, thoughts or sensations that trigger distress
- 02Understand the rituals, checking, reassurance or avoidance that follow
- 03Build a graded plan for approaching triggers
- 04Practise allowing uncertainty without completing the usual response
- 05Review learning and adjust the pace as confidence develops
Guide 05
Psychological care alongside illness or pain
Psychological therapy does not imply that symptoms are imagined. It can support adjustment while respecting the medical reality.
- 01Managing fear, uncertainty, grief and changes in identity
- 02Working with cycles between pain, stress, sleep and activity
- 03Communicating needs and limits to others
- 04Rebuilding meaningful activity within current capacity
- 05Coordinating with health professionals when appropriate and consented
Urgent and crisis support
Axis is not an emergency service. If there is immediate danger, call 000. Lifeline is available 24/7 on 13 11 14. Perth metro callers can contact the Mental Health Emergency Response Line on 1300 555 788.
Taking the next step
Information is useful. A conversation can make it specific.
If you are considering therapy, use the pathway form to choose the relevant service, format and appointment time.
Request an appointment