The Process of Beginning Psychology
What happens after I schedule an appointment?
We will send you a confirmation email containing the details of the appointment and three brief online forms for you to complete (a consent form, an intake form and a questionnaire). You will also receive a text message reminder before every appointment.
What do I need to bring to my appointment?
Please bring your Medicare card, a copy of your mental health care plan (if you have one) and any other documentation that you think is relevant.
What is a mental health care plan?
A mental health care plan is a brief document that you complete with your GP. During this process, he or she will ask you about the difficulties you have been experiencing. A mental health care plan allows a person to access a rebate for every psychology session, up to a maximum of 10 sessions per calendar year. For Clinical Psychologists, the rebate is $131.65. After 6 sessions, you will need to see your GP to complete a mental health review.
Do I have to use a mental health care plan?
No. If you have private health insurance, your fund may also allow you access a rebate for psychology sessions. Alternatively, if you have WorkCover funding, this will usually cover the full cost of psychology sessions.
What happens at the first psychology session?
At the first session, your psychologist will listen to the difficulties you have been experiencing. Together you will try to understand the nature of these problems and chart a course forward that you both agree on. You will be treated with respect, compassion and autonomy across sessions.
Fee
What is the out-of-pocket expense?
With a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP, the out-of-pocket fee ranges between $52.95 and $122.95 per session. You will be asked to pay the full fee upfront and afterwards (usually within 24 hours), a Medicare rebate of $137.60 will be deposited by Medicare directly into your account.
Do you ever reduce your fee?
If you are experiencing significant financial stress, a reduced fee may be negotiated. However only a certain number of reduced-fee places can be offered to people at any one time, which may impact whether a concession is possible.
Can I use a mental health care plan and private health insurance at the same time?
No, the government does not allow this.
Precautions Due to Covid 19 (Coronavirus)
Do you offer sessions remotely (via FaceTime or Skype)?
Yes, please indicate your interest in completing sessions this way.
Are safety precautions being taken agains Covid 19?
Yes, high levels of hygiene are maintained within the practice and hand sanitizer is available. At this time, it is advisable to bring your own drink bottle if attending sessions in person.
I am feeling unwell, should I still come in?
No, please do not attend a psychology session if you are experiencing cold or flu-like symptoms. A remote session may still be possible.
