FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

What are the fees?

Please contact your individual clinician to determine their session fee. The Australian Psychological Society’s (APS) current recommendation for a standard 46-60 minute session is $300.00. However many clinicians opt to charge at a lower rate.

Do I need a referral?

You may be eligible for a rebate for up to 10 Clinical Psychology sessions per calendar year if you are referred by your Psychiatrist or GP under a Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP). If you have a MHCP for an Eating Disorder you may access rebates for up to 40 sessions per calendar year. The current Medicare rebate is $137.05. If you have private health cover you may also be covered for private clinical psychology sessions. Please check with your health fund to determine your level of rebate. However please note that you may not claim from both Medicare and your private health fund for the same session.

What is the process for accessing therapy for my child?

Your child’s therapist may want to meet with you alone initially.  This will allow some time to discuss your concerns for your child, and for their therapist to understand your child’s history and family background.  In a subsequent appointment with your child, the therapist will get to know your child and understand their perspective.  From that time, you and the therapist will develop a treatment plan together. If your child has a Mental Health Care Plan from their doctor, only sessions with the child present will attract a Medicare rebate. 

What do I tell my child about coming to see a psychologist?  

It is best to tell your child the truth.  Explain that you will be taking them to someone whose job it is to help with difficult feelings (such as feeling very sad or worried), and that they are allowed to discuss those feelings or problems openly. Let them know that the psychologist won’t share their feelings with anyone else without their permission.  Discuss why this might be useful to them.  That way, they’ll have some idea of what to expect, and will be able to make best use of their time with a therapist. 

How does confidentiality work when my child is receiving therapy? 

Your child’s information is treated with respect.  Your child’s therapist will work to help you understand how best to support your child, but will only disclose specific contents of the session if this is necessary to keep your child safe, or if it has been agreed with your child.  Your child’s therapist may make specific appointments just for you, to discuss their needs, and how to manage these at home or at school.  

I need support for dealing with Family Court issues.  Is this available? 

If you are dealing with matters in the Family Court, and require a psychologist to advocate for you or your child’s best interests, it is best to discuss this with your lawyer.  There are specialist psychologists who work in this area, and who will be able to provide the unbiased support that will help.  This practice does not become involved with the Family Court.