Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the cost per session and can I get a rebate on my health insurance?

A: The fee for a Clinical Psychology session (50 -55 minutes) is $180 per session. ​If you have a referral from your GP and a Mental Health Care Plan (Item 2710), you can receive a Medicare rebate of $124.50 per session, for up to 10 sessions per calendar year, making the gap $55.50 per session. ​Some private health insurance providers offer rebates for Clinical Psychology Services. You would need to check with your provider to find out what you are entitled to claim.​

Coaching services are sold as a package. Contact me to talk through the various options and see if we’re a good fit.

Q: Do I need a referral?

A: No. You may phone and make an appointment at any time without a referral. Full session fees will apply. If you have private health insurance covering clinical psychology, you may receive a rebate.
However, if you do have a referral and if your GP believes you qualify for a Mental Health Care Plan, you may be entitled to a Medicare rebate, as outlined above.

Q: Do you offer child psychology services?

A: I work with young people from 16yrs of age, and I frequently work with mothers of young children, but I do not offer child psychology services as such.

Q: What is the difference between a psychologist, psychiatrist and a counsellor?

A: A psychologist has undertaken a minimum of four years of university training. Clinical psychologists have undertaken six years of university training as well as additional professional development and supervision to maintain their registration. They are trained to assess, diagnose and treat mental health disorders. Their approach to treatment involves ‘talking’ therapies, including cognitive, behavioural, mindfulness and acceptance-based approaches that are scientifically proven to be beneficial.​

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor with a specialisation in psychiatric illness. Psychiatrists are licensed to assess and diagnose psychiatric disorders and prescribe medication. Some psychiatrists also offer psychological support but many are happy to work alongside a psychologist who provides that element of the treatment.​

The term ‘counsellor’ is more widely used to describe anyone who offers counselling services, including counselling psychologists, psychotherapists, school guidance officers and church ministers. Therefore a counsellor’s specific qualifications or experience are more difficult to ascertain and you would need to enquire directly of the individual counsellor. There is usually no medicare rebate available for counselling services.

Q: I don’t know if I need counselling or coaching. How do I know which option is best?

A: Counselling (clinical psychology) aims to help you resolve a psychological disorder that is impacting your ability to function normally in your life. For example, if you have anxiety, depression or other mental health issues that are impacting your quality of life, your relationships, parenting or work.

Coaching, on the other hand, is for people who are functioning well and not experiencing a mental illness, but want to take their level of success or happiness to the next level but setting and working towards meaningful goals.

As a coaching psychologist, some of the elements I bring to coaching and counselling will be the same, but the focus is quite different.

Q: Do you offer after hours or weekend appointments?

A: No, individual psychology appointments are available on weekdays only. Mindfulness & Circle of Security courses may be offered during the evening or on weekends.