What happens when I go to a psychologist?

During the first session we discuss the changes that clients may wish to make, how treatment may support this process and decide whether the client and the therapist wish to proceed with treatment. Clients may be asked to complete psychometric measures and referrals to other professionals may be provided.

From the first session therapists are often looking to help the client in starting to make change, identify barriers to making progress and strengthen areas that are helpful for the client.

Clients are often confronted by aspects of themselves that get in the way of treatment progress, we try and deal with this in a kind and supportive way as this can be a hard yet crucial part of making lasting change.

“The client is in the drivers seat, the therapist is in the passenger seat providing support”

It is common for clients to be asking themselves “Is this working?” or “Am I getting anywhere?”. We urge all clients to openly discuss any concerns, questions or hesitations that you may have with the treatment process or the therapist. This allows clients and the therapist to deepen their understanding of the client. The reactions that the client often has to treatment or the therapist is important information that can help the client make change.

Clients typically attend an average of 6-12 sessions in a treatment period. The time frame attending treatment varies dependent on the nature and extent of the problems. Some clients choose to continue to address certain problems over an extended period of time.

What is the Medicare rebate? How does it work?

Clients may be suitable to access 10 counselling sessions per calendar year by obtaining a Mental Health Care Plan from their doctor.  Clients pay the practice fee and then the client receives a rebate of $141.85 back per session.