FAQs

When should I see a psychologist?

You may benefit from seeing a psychologist if you're experiencing emotional, psychological, or behavioural difficulties that impact your daily life, relationships, or work. Common reasons to seek therapy include:

• Depression
• Stress
• Anxiety
• PTSD
• Relationship or family issues
• Grief and loss
• Trauma experience
• Managing life transitions (e.g., job loss, retirement, relationship breakdown)
• Parental guidance
• Low self-esteem or confidence
• Chronic pain
• Health concerns affecting mental well-being
• Sleep problems

These are some examples, but if you're unsure whether therapy is right for you, a psychologist can help assess your situation and provide guidance.

How does therapy work?

Therapy provides a confidential, structured space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and behaviours with a trained professional. A psychologist will use evidence-based techniques to help you understand challenges, develop coping strategies, and work toward meaningful change.

A session is usually around 50 minutes, and therapy approaches may include:

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Active mindfulness based skills targeting difficult thoughts and feelings.

Gestalt Therapy

Focusing on present-moment awareness and personal responsibility to foster self-discovery and growth.

Narrative Therapy

Empowering you how to take control of your own life story.

Person Centred Therapy

A supportive, non-judgemental space for personal clarity and self-driven growth.

The process is collaborative, meaning you and your psychologist will work together to determine the best approach for your needs.

What can I expect to happen in a session? What do I need to bring to my initial appointment?

In your first sessions, the psychologist will discuss your concerns, history, and goals for therapy. This is an opportunity to share what’s been troubling you and ask any questions about the process. The session may involve:

• Talking about your current difficulties and personal history.
• Exploring factors that may contribute to your challenges.
• Discussing therapy goals and potential treatment approaches.

For your initial appointment, please bring the following:

• A referral letter (if you have one, such as from a GP under a Mental Health Care Plan).
• Your Medicare card (if eligible for Medicare rebates).
• Private health insurance details (if you intend to claim rebates).
• Any relevant medical or psychological reports.
• A notebook (optional) to jot down key points or strategies.

Subsequent sessions will focus on building skills, self-reflection, and working through challenges using evidence-based strategies.

Do I need a referral?

A referral is not required to see a psychologist, and you can book an appointment directly. However, if you want to access Medicare rebates, or funding through the Short-term Therapies (STT) program or DVA you will need a referral from a GP, psychiatrist, or paediatrician under a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP).

Medicare rebates

You may be eligible for rebates on up to 10 sessions per year through Medicare.

Private health insurance

Some policies cover psychology sessions, but rebates vary depending on your provider and level of cover.

Workcover, NDIS, or MAC

If your sessions relate to a workplace injury, disability support, or transport accident, funding may be available through relevant schemes.

If unsure, check with your GP or psychologist about available funding options.