FAQ'S

Before your therapy session begins, we may ask you to fill out administrative forms to properly record your data. You may also be asked to complete some psychological assessment forms to establish a starting point from which our psychologists can work. In the first few sessions, the practitioner will typically ask you to describe the problem that has brought you into their office. They will also gather relevant information on your background, as well as the history of your problems and other major areas of your life, and the ways you have tried to address the concerns.

This will depend on the psychologist's theoretical perspective. For example, psychologists who use cognitive-behavioral therapy have a practical approach to treatment and might ask you to tackle certain tasks designed to help you develop more effective coping skills.

Psychologists have studied human behavior and the brain and have been trained to assist people who are having challenges coping with emotions, thoughts, and actions. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialise in mental health and can prescribe medication.

The length of treatment will depend on your individual needs and goals. Some people may only need a few sessions, while others may benefit from longer-term treatment.

This depends on your referral type. Please see our types of referrals page.

We are not a bulk billing clinic.

The Medicare rebate for Clinical psychologists and Registered Psychologists covers a portion of the cost of psychologist sessions, which can vary depending on the psychologist’s fees.

As of 1st July 2023, the Medicare rebates are as follows:

• $136.35 rebate per 50+ minute session with a Clinical Psychologist

• $92.90 rebate per 50+ minute session with a Registered Psychologist.

At the end of the session, your psychologist will invoice you the full session fee. At the same time, your Medicare rebate can be submitted by the psychologist or yourself. The corresponding Medicare rebate is deposited into your nominated bank account by Medicare, generally within 24 hours.

Medicare rebates are only available for individual therapy. Better Access does not cover the cost of psychological reports, non-attendance fees, and couples counselling.

If you have private health insurance, you may be eligible to claim rebates for sessions with a psychologist. However, the cover level and applicable waiting periods vary between providers and depend on your extras cover policy.

Private health typically covers both in-person and online therapy sessions. These include individual therapy sessions, as well as couples counselling and family therapy.

Please get in touch with your private health insurance to determine eligibility and how much funding you are entitled to claim for psychological sessions.

Two days’ notice (48 hours) is required to cancel or reschedule a session and failure to provide this notice may result in the full fee being payable. We appreciate your understanding.

No, a referral is not required to book an appointment.