A Psychologist is an expert in mental health and human behaviour. Psychologists can help with a range of behavioural, emotional and psychological difficulties across the lifespan. They can also provide specialised support for a range of life experiences such as parenting, conflict, life adjustments, various major life events and human relationships. Psychologists are trained at university and undertake at least 6-8 years of of training to meet the requirements of practice with the Psychology Board of Australia and to be registered with AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency). Following registration Psychologists must seek ongoing supervision and training throughout their career to ensure they are providing the best evidence based services to their clients.

From undertaking expensive training and ongoing supervision, Psychologists have expert knowledge in working out what you may be struggling with (assessment/diagnosis), why you have come to struggle with this and what might be keeping the problem going (formulation), and then what might be the best way forward to help you with your struggles and goals (treatment). Psychologists may vary in their treatment approaches, but are often trained in the treatments and therapies that have been shown to be most effective for a wide range of people.

Psychologists can assist people with a wide range of issues and concerns, ranging from relationships problems, family difficulties and problems at work, to supporting people through grief and loss, problems with sleep or giving up habits or addictions. Furthermore Psychologists can treat major mental health disorders and difficulties such as depression, anxiety, stress and stress related disorders, trauma, fears and phobias.

A Psychiatrist is a medical doctor who has undergraduate qualifications in medicine.  A Psychiatrist specialises in the treatment of mental illnesses and is able to prescribe medication as a treatment modality.

A Psychologist is not a medical doctor.  A Psychologist has completed university degrees that focus on human behaviour.  As such a Psychologist does not prescribe medication but treats behavioural, emotional and psychological difficulties by using a range of established tools and strategies.

Psychological consultations are generally 50 minutes duration.

The number of sessions required varies between individuals and the presenting concern. Some people find that two or three sessions is plenty for simple advice, whilst others find that six sessions is helpful. Others may require longer term support. The duration of your treatment is part of the initial assessment and consultation process, is flexible and can be reviewed at any time.

You do not need a referral to access Psychological Services. You can simply make contact and book an appointment.

Without a referral, if you have private health insurance, you may be able to obtain a rebate from the cost of your sessions.  You will need to contact your health insurance fund to discuss this as all health insurers and policies vary.

If you do have a referral from your GP or Psychiatrist accompanied by a Mental Health Care Plan you will be able to obtain a Medicare rebate for each of your sessions.  Currently you can access up to 20 Medicare rebated sessions per calendar year. Should you wish to access this Medicare rebated scheme you will need to see your Doctor who will complete a document called a Mental Health Care Plan/referral. Once this is in place you commence accessing your Medicare rebated sessions.