Common Queries

What is a Clinical Psychologist?

 

Clinical Psychologists are highly trained in mental health, including identifying different mental health difficulties, conceptualising factors that help and hinder well-being, and providing therapy grounded in psychological theory and research. It takes at least eight years of education and training to become a Clinical Psychologist. To learn more visit the Australian Psychological Society (APS) or Australian Clinical Psychology Association (ACPA).

 

What ages do you work with?

 

Adults aged 18 and over.

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Do you provide couples or family therapy?

 

I don't, but I do provide individual strategies than can be utilised in relationships.

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Where do you consult?

 

In the lovely leafy surrounds of Elsternwick, Victoria.

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Do you offer telehealth?

 

I do. These sessions are also covered by Medicare. Tele video or phone sessions can be useful if you can’t attend in person due to distance, illness, scheduling conflicts, or you just prefer this option.

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What are your hours?

 

Appointments are available on Wednesdays. Sessions out of business hours are available but limited.

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How long are appointments?

 

Usually 55 minutes.

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How many sessions will I need and how frequently?

 

This will depend on the difficulties you are facing and your goals for therapy. We can discuss this in our first session and devise a plan that works for you.

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Do I need a doctor’s referral?

 

Self-referrals are welcome. However, you will need a referral from a doctor if you want to access Medicare-rebated sessions.  

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How do I access Medicare-rebated sessions?

 

You may be able to access up to 10 Medicare-rebated psychology sessions per calendar year under the Better Access Initiative.

 

The most common way people access these sessions is via a Mental Health Treatment Plan and referral from their GP. If you don’t currently have a treatment plan, please book in for a long consultation with your GP to discuss this.  

 

To access the rebate you will need to provide a copy of your referral prior to your first session.

 

Once you have paid for your appointment your Medicare rebate will be processed automatically and should clear in your nominated bank account within one business day. 

 

Can I use private health insurance cover?

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Psychology sessions may be subsidised by your health fund depending on your cover. Please check with your provider.

 

As per Medicare mandates, if electing to subsidise a session fee with private health you cannot also utilise a Medicare rebate.

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What are your fees?

 

The fee is $240 for a 55 minute consultation on weekdays between 9am and 5pm and $260 outside these hours.

 

With a Mental Health Treatment Plan you can access a $145.25 Medicare rebate, thereby paying $94.75 out of pocket for a standard consultation during business hours or $114.75 for a session out of business hours.

 

Full payment is required immediately after your appointment.

 

What do I do if I can’t make a session?

 

If you need to reschedule or cancel an appointment please advise via email as soon as you can.

 

A cancellation fee of 50% applies for missed or forgotten sessions where less than 24-hours notice is provided. This cannot be claimed under Medicare.

 

Can I get more information?

 

If you have questions, please email. I will aim to respond to your query within one business day. I also offer a no-cost initial 15-minute phone call to explore your needs and answer your questions.

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Who can I contact if I need support right now?

 

If you require immediate mental health support please contact one of the following 24/7 services:

• Your local psychiatric triage service for mental health crisis via http://www3.health.vic.gov.au/mentalhealthservices/

• Lifeline for counselling and crisis support on 13 11 14 or https://www.lifeline.org.au/

• Directline for drug and alcohol support on 1800 888 236 or https://www.directline.org.au/