FAQ
HOW DOES IT WORK?
I offer all services either online or at my rooms. You are welcome to bring a support person.
At our initial consultation we will explore your current concerns and relevant history. This will help us establish a shared understanding of your problems and goals. We will also discuss the most appropriate treatment approach based on your needs and preferences. In addition to this, we will discuss your expectations and rights as a client.
At subsequent consultations we will progress with treatment according to the approach agreed upon. I will also make space for you to raise whatever you feel is most important to discuss.
Along the way, we will track progress to make sure we are moving in the right direction. This may involve completing questionnaires. In addition, you will be guided to carry out regular reflection and review.
HOW OFTEN WILL I NEED TO ATTEND SESSIONS?
At your initial consultation we will agree on how often you will need to attend sessions in order to benefit from treatment, as well as how many sessions you may need to address your problems and reach your goals. Some people benefit from weekly sessions, while others find that fortnightly sessions or less work fine (especially if they have been attending for some time).
We will likely reserve some appointment times for you in advance, to ensure your treatment is consistant. Therapy works best if you attend all scheduled sessions, even at times when you feel better or think you have nothing to talk about on a given day.
HOW LONG DO CONSULTATIONS TAKE?
I am careful to run to time and will negotiate session duration with you in advance. Standard consultations take 50 minutes. We may sometimes decide to schedule an extended (75-minute session) to accommodate the demands of exposure work or trauma processing, among other reasons. Many couples also find that the longer sessions work better for them.
HOW DO ONLINE CONSULTATIONS WORK?
I provide all of my services online via Power Diary's integrated Telehealth platform. The platform is secure, private, and fully compliant with Australian Health Care Industry Standards (including HIPAA). You can use the platform from within your web browser without downloading special software. Click here for more information about using Power Diary's integrated Telehealth platform.
During COVID-19, Medicare rebates can be claimed with a valid referral regardless of whether you choose to attend in person online. Click here to learn more about Referral Pathways.
HOW MUCH DOES THERAPY COST?
The Australian Psychology Society recommends a fee of $267 for a standard 50-minute consultation. My standard rate is $240, or $250 for outside school hours and weekends. I also offer extended sessions of 75-minutes at a rate of $360 - $375. The cost of attending online is the same as for face to face.
You may be able to claim a Medicare rebate for sessions with an appropriate referral. You may also be able to access rebates via the National Disability Insurance Scheme or Workcover. Alternatively, you may also be able to access a rebate from your private health insurer; however, you cannot use your private cover rebate if you have already claimed for a session through another provider.
Please be aware that even with a referral or other rebate, you will still carry some out of pocket expenses.
IS A FEE PAYABLE FOR CANCELLED OR MISSED APPOINTMENTS?
My cancellation policy is in line with the Australian Psychological Society recommendations.
Sometimes there are good reasons for cancelling appointments. However, unlike brief medical appointments, it is rarely possible for me to arrange at short notice for another client to fill a cancelled psychology appointment that runs for 50 minutes or more.
Where you provide less than two business days’ notice to cancel or change an appointment, or where you fail to attend an appointment, you will be charged a fee for that appointment time.
Cancellation fees are as follows:
24-48 hours prior: 50% session fee
<24 hours prior: 100% session fee
This policy serves the purposes of ensuring commitment to your treatment, as well as allowing me to maintain a viable service in support of my clients.
Fees are payable at the time of cancellation.
IS THERAPY RIGHT FOR ME?
You may want to discuss whether therapy is appropriate for your needs with your GP, psychiatrist, or other health provider.
Alternatively, I am happy to offer a free 15-minute phone consultation. During this, we can explore your problems and goals, and discuss whether you are likely to benefit from therapy. If you are interested in a free phone consultation, please click here to get in touch via my Contact Page.
HOW DO I BOOK AN APPOINTMENT?
For enquires or appointments please call 0438 690 596 or click here to complete the contact form on my Contact Page. Referrals are also welcome and can be faxed to 07 3607 2410.