As a registered psychologist I hold a Medicare provider number – this allows me to provide psychological treatment under the ‘Better Access to Mental Health Care’ initiative. This means that your appointment costs may be supported by Medicare. To be able to claim a rebate from Medicare, you will need a referral (usually in the form of a Mental Health Treatment Plan  - MHTP) from a GP, psychiatrist or paediatrician. You do not require a doctor’s referral if you do not wish to claim a rebate through Medicare.

If you are eligible for a MHTP and do wish to claim a rebate through Medicare,  you will need to make an appointment with the appropriate doctor to discuss.  It is advisable to ask for a longer appointment with your doctor to allow time to discuss the plan and complete the necessary paperwork.  You will need this referral before your first appointment. You will be required to visit your GP for a re-assessment of your MHTP mid-way through your treatment.

2023-2024 Medicare rebates: 30 minute session $65.85. 60 or 90 minute session $92.90.

If you have a MHTP, at the end of each appointment, you can take your receipt of payment to Medicare to claim your rebate.

You may be able to claim psychological services from your private health insurance, dependent upon your insurer and level of cover. It is best to contact your insurer to discuss your eligibility. All claims are processed through your insurer using your receipt of payment after your appointment.

Please be aware that you cannot use your private health insurance ancillary cover to ‘top up’ the Medicare rebate paid for the services.

Appointments generally last 50-60 minutes – although, there may be occasions where we will arrange a longer appointment if necessary and/or desired. Working out the best way forward is something we will establish together based on your needs.

I am completely committed to creating a warm environment where you feel relaxed, safe and welcome. Our first couple of sessions will focus on getting to know each other and together, clarifying your needs and goals. Questions and collaboration are always encouraged as we work to create an authentic connection and working relationship. This will also help you to decide if our ways of working fit well together. Creating a good working relationship is a factor that is vitally important for your progress so never hesitate to ask any questions you may have.

I also recognize and appreciate that it can take time to establish trust and feel ready to talk openly – this is something I work towards gently. You can rest assured in the knowledge that I value working in a transparent, collaborative and open manner, and will regularly check in to ensure we are working in a way that suits you.

I care about your privacy and adhere strictly to the Australian privacy principles and guidelines as set out in the Privacy Act (1988). For your reference, you will also be asked to consider, sign and return a number of forms prior to attending your first appointment. These forms will outline more specifically the ways of working regarding our sessions and your privacy. It is preferable that you sign and scan these forms prior to your first appointment, but you can also print them and bring in a hard copy on the day. These forms include:

INTAKE FORM
This is to collect relevant information to establish you as my client.  It will also enable you to receive reminder texts and information concerning your appointment/s. Additionally, this information helps me to gather some initial details as to why you’d like to come along to an appointment, and the sorts of issues you may like to discuss and work on.

CONSENT FORMS
The consent forms will outline more precisely what you can expect from our working relationship and your rights as a client of a psychologist. They include the APS Charter for Clients of a Psychologist, information pertaining to confidentiality, privacy and collaboration, risk management procedures for face to face and telehealth services, and protocols regarding health and/or environmental risks.  These forms will also give you details about fees, payments and our cancellation policy.

QUESTIONAIRES
A number of questionaires will be sent to help us to establish how you are feeling at the current time.  This will help us ascertain the most helpful ways of working together.

Fees are payable on the day of each appointment via debit and credit card facilities on site. If opting for debit transfer, payment is to be made prior to the appointment start.  

It is important that you know how the cancellation policy works. If, for some reason you need to cancel or postpone your appointment, please give the psychologist at least 48 hours’ notice. Cancellation fees will be charged at the discretion of the psychologist. Please note however, that the general policy is to charge 25% of the full session fee if you cancel less than 24 hours before, or 100% on the day of your appointment (including if you forget).

The reason for this is to allow time to offer the session to another client who may be on a cancellation or waiting list.  The cancellation fee is unfortunately not covered by Medicare, Private Insurance, or Third Parties.

Conditions and mandated protocols are specified in consent forms which are required to be completed prior to attending any services with or at the Balanced Quartet clinic.
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Hand sanitiser is made available to all staff and clients at the entrance/exit of the building, in consulting rooms, bathrooms and at the reception area. Liquid soap and paper towels are provided in each bathroom. Disinfectant spray and wipes are also available to clean common areas such as the reception desk, EFTPOS machine, door handles and consulting rooms between sessions. When necessary, cups will be replaced with disposable cups. Clients are encouraged to use their own pen, yet all stationary is regularly sanitised.
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The building has air conditioning which can be adjusted to increase external airflow when possible. Telehealth (if deemed clinically appropriate) may be required if directed by Health Authorities.

Face coverings, when mandated or if requested will be made available to all staff and clients who do not have their own. When mandated, all staff and clients are required to wear face coverings at all times in common areas. 

If directed, COVID safe signs and posters are placed around the building, including at the entrance and reception.

I fully appreciate that at times life can feel overwhelming when face to face help may not be readily available.  If in crisis, please don't hesitate to reach out to one of the services listed here.