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Frequently Asked Questions

We understand that starting therapy or reaching out for support can bring up a lot of questions. Our FAQ section is here to give you clear, helpful information about therapy, appointments, fees, confidentiality, and what to expect when working with us. If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, please feel free to contact us - we’re happy to help.

What can I expect during my first visit?
During your first visit, your psychologist will get to know you, assess your current symptoms, and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Occasionally, if time permits, treatment may begin during the first session. However, due to time constraints, treatment often begins in the second session. Your first appointment is also an opportunity for you to ask questions, discuss your goals for therapy, and decide whether the psychologist is the right fit for you. It is completely normal to feel nervous before your first session, and you are welcome to share only what you feel comfortable discussing.
Do I need a referral to book?
You do not need a referral to book an appointment. However, if you would like to claim a Medicare rebate, your Mental Health Treatment Plan and referral must be dated prior to your appointment. Your psychologist will also need to sight your referral before or during the session. If you are not claiming through Medicare, you are welcome to attend privately without a referral. Some clients also choose to access sessions through private health insurance or NDIS funding where applicable.
Will my details and sessions be kept confidential?
Yes, your sessions are confidential, with some statutory limitations. These limitations are outlined in our consent form. You are welcome to request a copy of the confidentiality section of the consent form prior to booking by contacting our friendly administration team. Confidentiality may only need to be broken in specific circumstances, such as if there is a serious risk of harm to yourself or another person, or where disclosure is required by law. Wherever possible, this would be discussed with you first.
How do Telehealth sessions work?
Telehealth sessions are available via Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or phone appointment. For Zoom and Teams appointments, a secure link will be emailed to you approximately 10 minutes before your session begins. Telehealth appointments are conducted similarly to in-person sessions and can be a flexible option for clients who live remotely, have mobility limitations, busy schedules, or prefer the comfort and privacy of their own home. To ensure the best experience, we recommend attending your session in a quiet and private space with a stable internet connection.
What do I need to do before attending my first appointment?
Before your first appointment, you will need to read and sign our online intake forms. If you wish to claim Medicare rebates, you will also need to obtain a referral and Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP prior to your appointment. You may also find it helpful to think about any goals, concerns, or questions you would like to discuss during your session. There is no “right” way to prepare, and your psychologist will guide the conversation at a pace that feels comfortable for you.
Who can I contact after business hours?
Unless it is an emergency, you can contact our office via phone, text message, or email outside business hours. Please note that messages left after hours may not be responded to for 24 hours or more. In an emergency, please call 000 or present to your nearest hospital. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, you can also contact Lifeline Australia. Please note that our psychologists do not provide a crisis or emergency response service outside scheduled appointments.
How do I get a Mental Health Treatment Plan?
You can obtain a Mental Health Treatment Plan by booking an appointment with your GP. If this is your first Mental Health Treatment Plan, some GPs may require a longer consultation to complete the assessment and documentation. A Mental Health Treatment Plan allows eligible clients to access Medicare rebates for psychological treatment. Your GP can also discuss whether psychology is an appropriate support option for your current concerns.
Do you accept NDIS clients?
Yes, we accept NDIS clients who are self-managed or plan-managed. Please note that we are not NDIA registered and therefore cannot bill the NDIA directly. If you are unsure whether your NDIS funding can be used for psychology services, we recommend speaking with your support coordinator, plan manager, or the NDIS directly prior to booking.
Can I claim through Private Health Insurance?
Yes. All psychologists are fully registered with Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency. If your private health insurance policy includes psychology cover, you may be eligible to claim rebates. Please check with your insurer to confirm your level of cover and eligibility. Please note that Medicare rebates and private health insurance rebates generally cannot be claimed for the same session.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept credit cards, debit cards, and direct bank transfers. Payment is generally required on the day of your appointment unless alternative arrangements have been made in advance.
What is the difference between a clinical psychologist and a registered psychologist?
In Australia, both clinical psychologists and registered psychologists are fully qualified and trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. Current evidence suggests there is no significant difference in treatment effectiveness between psychologists with clinical endorsement and other registered psychologists (Pirkis et al., 2011). Reference: Pirkis, J., Ftanou, M., Williamson, M., Machlin, A., Spittal, M., & Bassilios, B. (2011). Australia’s Better Access initiative: An evaluation. Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry, 45(9), 726–739.