Question 1

Do I need a referral from my doctor?

Accepted Answer

No, you can visit your psychologist without a referral if you wish. However, if you want to claim a rebate from Medicare, you must first visit your doctor for a referral letter and to establish a Mental Health Care Plan before seeing your psychologist. Your doctor will assess your progress after the first six sessions and refer you for more sessions if required.

You will also need a referral from your doctor if your provider is TAC or WorkCover.

Question 2

Can I claim a rebate from Medicare?

Accepted Answer

You may be eligible to claim a Medicare rebate for up to 10 counselling sessions in a calendar year.

Question 3

Can I claim a rebate from my private health fund?

Accepted Answer

Depending on your level of cover, you may be eligible for private health insurance rebates.  It is best to contact your private health provider and discuss the level of cover that you have.

Question 4

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

In order to provide maximum access for all of our clients, we ask that should you need to cancel or re-schedule an appointment you give us sufficient time to offer the opportunity to those who are waiting.   We require 24 hours’ notice for any cancellations or reschedule requests, otherwise 50% of the full session fee will be payable. There is no Medicare or provider rebates available for cancellations.

Question 5

Is counselling confidential?

Accepted Answer

All information discussed in counselling sessions is confidential, except in the following circumstances:

There is risk to your safety or the safety of another person
Our counselling notes are subpoenaed by a Court
You have provided us with permission to speak to another person or organisation about your circumstances

Please note that if you intend on claiming a rebate from Medicare or another organisation (eg. TAC or WorkCover) we are required to provide summary reports to your referring GP or the relevant funding organisation regarding your counselling treatment progress.

Question 6

What will my first session look like?

Accepted Answer

Understandably, the first session can be nerve-wracking for most people. Rest assured, any questions about your struggles will be approached at a pace that feels safe and nurturing. During your session, we’ll explore your current situation, background history, and personal goals. You may also complete some questionnaires, which will help the psychologist to tailor a treatment plan to your unique needs and responsiveness. Additionally, we’ll discuss how therapy typically works and address any questions you might have. As we continue, subsequent sessions will focus on collaborative work toward your therapy goals.

Question 7

What is the duration of treatment?

Accepted Answer

As each client’s experience is unique, it is challenging to predict precisely how long it will take for you to feel better. Our ethical guidelines emphasize that psychologists only continue sessions if they are beneficial to the client. We recommend returning for appointments only when there is a clear reason and mutual agreement.

Typically, clients gradually experience improvement over time and find themselves with fewer topics to discuss. During your sessions, we will assess this progress. As you reach a point where appointments can be spaced further apart, you may begin to feel that therapy is no longer necessary.

Question 8

What if I am in a crisis?

Accepted Answer

Please be aware that our email and phone communication is not monitored 24/7.  If you find yourself a crisis or feeling distressed and require immediate assistance, we encourage you to reach out to one of the following crisis support services: