Common Questions
Do I need to be referred by a doctor?
No. You can access the services by paying full fees or claiming through the NDIS/Private Health Insurance. A mental health care plan and a referral through a GP or psychiatrist is only required if you want to claim rebates through Medicare.
What if I can't afford therapy?
Upon request, individuals may be granted a concession fee rate. The concession rate ranges from $131-151 a session depending on household income.
How long does each therapy session take?
Standard therapy sessions with any psychologist last 50 minutes. This allows the therapist time for preparation and record-keeping. Family and Couples councelling are conducted via longer 80 minute sessions and cost more.
What does Walk and Talk therapy look like?
Walk and Talk therapy involves using traditional therapy approaches like (ACT,CBT,DBT) while gentle exercising within a natural environment, at a pace suited to your needs and preferences. A location such the beach, botanic gardens or Lake Illawarra walking track will be agreed upon in consultation with your therapist. In the event of extreme weather conditions (rain/wind/heat/cold), an alternative such as a home visit or telehealth session will be arranged.
What can I expect from my first session?
Most people feel anxious in their first session and opening up to a stranger about your personal circumstances certainly requires courage. Your psychologist will work to make you feel comfortable and will ask you questions to gain a picture of your circumstances, while giving you the freedom not to answer. They will present you with an overview of how your counseling might work and what goals could be addressed. The process will be collaborative and your input into what approaches you like and what your goals are is most welcome.
How many sessions and how often will I need them?
I will attempt to address this question with you in your first session. Therapy is as unique as the individuals who attend it; however, some conditions and circumstances do lend themselves to longer or shorter treatments. Some individuals may only require 1-3 sessions to address a singular need, while other conditions may require extended treatment.
Can I get NDIS funding?
Yes, you can access any of our services if you have a self-managed National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) plan. The service comes under Therapy Supports, under Improved Daily Living.
Can I claim through my Private Health Fund?
Yes. You will be charged the full session amount and given a receipt for you to make a claim with your health fund. Contact your health fund first to ensure your extras cover includes mental health care fees. You cannot claim a Medicare rebate and a health fund rebate for the same session.
Should I see a psychologist?
YES. I personally believe that everyone should take as much care of their mental health as they do their physical, especially given how interrelated these are. You don't need to have a mental illness to benefit from psychology. Issues with stress, sleep, motivation, lack of direction, parenting challenges, relational challenges and more are all perfectly valid issues that can be helped by seeing a psychologist.
Where do I meet the Psychologist?
There are several options. We can meet in your own home with a home visit, or via telehealth. Alternatively we can meet in a pre-arranged meeting point for walk-talk therapy at a quiet location. The botanic gardens, beaches and Lake Illawarra track are popular locations. An SMS and Google Maps link with the location will be provided as reminders of the location.