Do I need a referral?

No you do not need a referral to see a psychologist. However, if you wish to claim a Medicare rebate under the Australian Government’s Better Access to Mental Health Care initiative then you will need to see a medical practitioner (e.g., your GP, Paediatrician) to request a referral. You will need to bring your referral letter and your Mental Health Treatment Plan to the first appointment (unless your doctor has already forwarded this information to us).

How often will I need to come?

At your first appointment information will gathered about your main concerns. At this time the frequency of subsequent appointments will be discussed and negotiated with you. Typically treatment involves regular weekly/fortnightly contact for a number of weeks.

Who should come along to the appointments?

The psychologist you are seeing will discuss who should attend the appointments. Typically the psychologist will want to spend time with the parent(s) or child’s primary caregiver at the first appointment to gain a good understanding of the main difficulties the young person is experiencing. It can be helpful to also bring along any medical or school records to this appointment as these might also help better understand your child.

Will I recieve a rebate?

Medicare rebates are available for psychology services via a Mental Health Treatment Plan (obtained from your family GP) or referral from your child’s Paediatrician or Psychiatrist.  If you have private health insurance you may be able to claim a rebate through your insurer – check your policy for further details or contact your health insurance fund.   Rebates can vary depending on the type of cover you have through your private insurance fund.