What to expect
Values
We value compassion, collaboration, empowerment, diversity, honesty, and safety in our practice.
Confidentiality
We understand the importance of confidentiality and privacy and therefore we ensure to maintain the highest ethical standards. Your information is not shared with anyone other than brief summaries to your referring doctor for the best interests of your treatment. There may be other people you wish to include in terms of information shared, especially if you wish for a joint session with a loved one. Only in situations where there is significant risk of harm to others or yourself, would we inform extra supports. If you are in a court case and the court issues a subpoena on your file notes, we are legally obligated to provide this information.
Getting in Contact and Sessions
Once you have filled out the contact form, we will be in contact with you through email to discuss suitability and availability
An intake form and consent form will then be sent to you to fill out
Appointments are approximately 50 minutes
The first appointment session is usually a getting to know you session in which your issues with be explored, goals may be set, and a support plan created. It is normal to feel anxious and we can be contacted if you have any questions
We may ask you about your background (family/relationships) and any important experiences you have had
There may be some questionnaires for you to fill out to give us a glimpse of the nature and severity of your concerns
We understand that it is often quite daunting to speak to someone about personal concerns, so we allow time for you to feel comfortable in sharing information
We are here to support you with no judgment
It can be tiring after having your session, so we recommend planning ahead to have a more relaxing day afterwards. This could look like not returning straight back to work or engaging in a stressful task. It may be helpful to relax on your own or with a supportive person afterwards.
Fees
Rebates can be claimed through Medicare and private health insurance, reducing your out-of-pocket costs.
Fees can be discussed during the booking process. It is requested that payment is made on the day of the appointment. Payment through Electronic Funds Transfer is preferred, however we do accept credit card payments.
If you receive a Mental Health Care Plan with a referral to us from your GP or Psychiatrist you are entitled to a Medicare rebate for 10 sessions per calendar year. Under an Eating Disorder Treatment Plan, you are eligible for up to 40 sessions per calendar year. Your GP will then either provide you with the referral, or send it directly to our email. You may also be eligible for a Chronic Disease Management Plan (up to 5 sessions) if experiencing a chronic medical condition. It is recommended to discuss this with your GP if you think you may be eligible.
If your health expenses are likely to be strained for the year, you can contact Medicare and request to be placed on the Medicare Safety Net which may allow for further rebates.
Rebates for private psychological sessions vary greatly between health insurance providers. Many insurance companies require their clients to have used their allocated Medicare sessions before allowing claims for private psychological cover. Please check with your health fund to see if you are covered. You will need a GP or Psychiatrist referral.
Cancellation Policy
Our policy requires 24 hour notice before cancelling, otherwise a cancellation fee will apply. This is due to the time spent preparing for the session and the potential loss to another client, who may have being waiting for an appointment.
