FAQ

Because it is often hard for children to understand, process and verbalise their thoughts and feelings play therapy can allow for them explore thoughts, feelings and in some cases trauma.

Play therapy allows the therapist to observe the child, redirect behaviours and explore emotions in a very natural positive way for the child, whilst engaging them in something that interests them.

No, you don't need a referral from a doctor to see a psychologist and you if your private health covers you for mental health issues you may be eligible to claim a rebate from them.

If you don't have private health but still wish to receive a rebate you can visit your doctor and see if you meet the requirements  for a Mental Health Care Plan, this will entitle you to a rebate from Medicare.

No, you are unable to combine a rebate from a Mental Health Care Plan along with a rebate from your Private Health for the same session. You can only use one rebate system per session.

A psychologist is trained in helping people who are experiencing many numbers of things including anxiety, depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), stress, difficult relationships, and behaviour issues. Psychologists work with the client to tailor their treatment plans to develop skills and tools to cope with life's bumps in the road.

Psychiatrists have completed a medical degree as well as further study to specialise in mental illness and they can also prescribe medication like antidepressants.

Appointments are generally for 50 - 60 minutes unless otherwise organised with the practice.

All our current psychologists have a Clinical endorsement. Meaning that they have completed their postgraduate training and received their qualifications. They have then continued with supervised training to complete the requirements for Clinical Endorsement.

Extract from Psychology Board of Australia

"Clinical psychologists use their knowledge of psychology and mental health for the assessment, diagnosis, formulation, treatment, and prevention of psychological problems and mental illness across the lifespan. They research psychological problems and use their psychological knowledge to develop scientifically based approaches to improve mental health and wellbeing."

Psychology is a very personal journey for each individual and therefore the number of sessions required will vary from person to person.

Psychologists are held to a very strict code of ethics and this includes strict rules around keeping your personal information and notes about session confidential. However there a a few specific situations where psychologists can share information without your prior consent these being

1. If you intend to harm yourself or someone else
2. To report abuse including domestic violence, abuse or neglect of a child or elderly person as well as abuse or neglect of someone with a disability.
3. It is subpoenaed by a court or requested by a government agency for audit
4. For peer supervision with other psychologists where your situation (where your personal is withheld) may be discussed
5. If you have given prior approval to provide a report to another professional agency or discuss with another person.

Most people are often nervous when they start therapy for the first time as it is difficult to open up and talk about personal problems and thoughts.

But remember that you are in control of your therapy and your psychologist is there to give you skills and tools to use to help you understand your problems and ultimately yourself better.

Not only is this dependant on the age of your child it can also be dependent on the reason for your visit to a psychologist.

Generally for any therapy to be effective it is recommended that skills and tools taught be continued at home so it is important for you to have some involvement in your child's care.  However there will be times when your child and therapist will work together without you.