Some commonly asked questions are answered below. However, if you would like to speak with someone directly, then feel free to give us a call, or alternatively email your questions or comments to us.
Q: Who can call themselves a psychologist?
A: To be eligible to use the title ‘psychologist’, a person needs to be registered with the national registration board (AHPRA), the Psychology Board of Australia, and adhere to specific codes of conduct and competencies.
Q: What is the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist?
A: A psychologist is an expert in human behaviour and they’ve had extensive training in the way people feel, think, act and interact. They are trained in specific evidence based therapeutic approaches, which are aimed at assisting people who are experiencing a range of difficulties such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, relationship difficulties and addictive behaviours. In Australia psychologists do not prescribe medications.
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who has undergone additional training to specialise in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions. They can provide psychological treatments and also prescribe specific medications that are targeted towards alleviating or managing mental health symptoms. To see a psychiatrist you are required to gain a referral from your GP.
Q: What is a clinical psychologist?
A: A clinical psychologist is a psychologist who specialises in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions. To become endorsed as a clinical psychologist additional post-graduate training and a further two years full time supervised clinical practice is required.
Q: What is an accredited mental health social worker?
A: An accredited mental health social worker is a social worker who has specialist training in assessing and treating people who have mental health conditions. They are registered providers with Medicare Australia and have expertise in supporting individuals to address their presenting and underlying psychological challenges. They also consider the social, economic and environmental factors that impact on an individual’s health and wellbeing.
Q: Can I choose my own psychologist or mental health social worker?
A: Most doctors will provide a list of psychologists or mental health social workers in your local area to choose from. However, your doctor may refer you to a specific practitioner who is better suited for your needs.
Q: How many sessions can I have under Medicare’s Better Access initiative?
A: Medicare will rebate up to 10 individual sessions per calendar year. After 6 sessions, you need to go back to your doctor for a review to be eligible for the final 4 sessions. Medicare will also rebate up to 10 group treatment sessions per calendar year.
For people living in rural areas, they may be eligible to receive sessions via online Telehealth services.
Q: Can I claim Medicare rebates and private insurance at the same time?
A: No. You can claim either Medicare rebates or private insurance.
Q: How long do sessions go for?
A: A standard psychological session lasts for 50 minutes. Depending on the circumstances, the session may be shorter or longer in duration and the psychologist’s fees will be adjusted accordingly.
Q: What if I am too anxious to attend appointments?
A: If you find that your anxiety is distressing and is stopping you from attending appointments, please let your clinician know. Psychologists & mental health social workers are trained in anxiety management techniques and will be able to give you support when you arrive at your appointment to feel more calm and relaxed. In some circumstances home appointments can be arranged.
Q: Can I bring anyone with me to my appointments?
A: Yes. You are welcome to bring a support person to attend all or part of your appointment.
Q: What if I don’t like my therapist?
A: Initially you may wish to discuss your concerns with your clinician and they may be able to make changes to better suit your needs. Alternatively, you can change therapists at any point throughout the treatment process. It might be helpful to discuss the situation with your referring GP who can assist you to identify another practitioner.