Frequently Asked Questions
_
New clients can fill in a booking enquiry on our website.
Existing clients can make an appointment through our online booking system or call our reception team on 1300 535 927.
_
Yes, we are experienced in supporting children from three years onwards, adolescents, and adults.
_
Yes, we support self-managed and plan-managed NDIS participants. We are experienced in supporting clients towards meeting their NDIS goals, building their capacity, improving their daily living skills, and helping them to live their best and most independent life possible. You will need to inform us of your participant number, goals, and the contact details of your plan manager if you have one.
_
Yes, we support WorkCover participants. We are experienced in supporting clients towards meeting their rehabilitation and return to work goals. You will need to inform us of your claim number and the contact details of your case advisor.
_
No, you may come privately. However, if you would like to receive a Medicare rebate, then you do need to see a doctor before your appointment to check your eligibility for a ‘Mental Health Care Plan’ under Medicare. If you are eligible to claim a Medicare rebate for your consultation, you will need a referral to see a psychologist from either a GP, psychiatrist or paediatrician. If you are making a doctor’s appointment to check your eligibility, please note that many doctors recommended that you book a longer consultation to allow time to discuss your concerns and to develop a Mental Health Care Plan.
_
Yes, if you have an appropriate referral from a GP, psychiatrist or paediatrician, Medicare rebates are available for psychological treatment by registered psychologists under the Better Access to Mental Health Care initiative. A gap fee applies.
_
Many private health insurers offer rebates on psychological services to members with ancillary benefits insurance (extras cover). As rebates vary considerably between health insurers and also within insurers based on level of cover, it is recommended that you check with your health insurance fund to find out if you are covered and how much your rebate will be. There are typically gap fees. It is also recommended to check if your health fund requires a medical referral.
_
This depends on your presenting concerns, any risk factors, and the complexity of your situation. Your psychologist will devise an individualised treatment plan and will discuss the frequency of your visits with you. Initially appointments may be weekly or fortnightly. Then over a period of time, the gap between sessions lengthens.
_
Although many people experience some initial nervousness coming to their first appointment, these feelings typically pass quickly as we provide a relaxed and non-judgemental environment where you are safe and supported to be you.
_
You will receive a booking confirmation email including a link to the new client forms. We strongly recommend that you complete the new client forms before your first appointment to allow your psychologist to prepare for your appointment. During your initial appointment, your psychologist will introduce themselves, explain confidentiality, and encourage you to ask any questions you may have. Your psychologist will be keen to get to know you. They will ask questions to understand your presenting concerns, your background, interests, relationships, strengths, challenges, and your goals. They will then recommend and explain an evidence-based treatment plan to assist you to achieve your goals and overcome your challenges.
_
We want you to feel comfortable and we want to help you to achieve your goals. If you would prefer to be supported in a different way, please let your psychologist know so they may try an alternative therapeutic approach or strategy. Your feedback is always very welcome. It is your choice if you wish to consider seeing a different practitioner. Your psychologist can recommend another therapist to help you.
_
It is important to make an informed choice when selecting a therapist as although the roles sound similar, the training and standards differ greatly.
To practice in Australia, Psychologists must be registered with AHPRA and must have a minimum of 6 years of tertiary training including supervised clinical practice. They may additionally have a Masters of Doctorate. Psychologists must undertake an-approved program of continuing professional development, hold appropriate Professional Indemnity Insurance, follow the Psychologists Board of Australia (PBA) endorsed Code of Ethics, and demonstrate satisfactory evidence of recent practice.
A psychiatrist has been trained as a medical doctor and must be registered with AHPRA. Their primary mode of treatment is pharmacological. Psychologists do not prescribe medication.
In Australia counselling is unregulated. This means anyone can call themselves a counsellor, regardless of whether they have had any training or experience in treating mental health concerns. Qualifications vary considerably. For example, some may have participated in a 1-day course, while others may have a master’s degree. Counsellors or psychotherapists are not required to hold insurance or to belong to a professional organisation with minimum standards for practice.