Frequently Asked Questions

What will medicare cover?

From 01 July 2022, Clinical Psychologists attract a Medicare rebate of $131.65 per standard session (50-60 minutes) if you have a current Mental Health Care Plan.

You are required to pay for the session in full and we process the Medicare rebate online for you. Medicare will then pay the rebate amount to your nominated bank account. The gap fee (session fee minus the rebate) is payable by you.

What if I need help right now?

If you or a loved one is in an emergency situation or is at imminent risk of harm to self or others, please contact 000 or attend the nearest hospital.

If you or a loved one is experiencing a mental health crisis (acute symptoms needing timely support), you can contact the NSW Mental Health Access Line: 1800 011 511. They may be able to refer you to your local mental health service if you are eligible. If you are not eligible, they can make other referral suggestions.

If you need immediate counselling support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.

What will it cost?

The Australian Psychological Society (APS) publishes a recommended schedule of fees. The 2021-22 Recommended Schedule of Fees has set the standard 45 to 60 minute consultation fee at $267. Our fees are set at $260 per standard session (subject to annual review). The initial assessment session lasts for 90 minutes, and is priced at $330.

We are not a bulk-billing practice.

Can I use my private health insurance?

Your ability to access a rebate from a private health insurer will depend on your level of cover and any specific requirements of your health insurer. We recommend that you check with your health fund to determine the specific details of your cover.

Please note you can usually only claim rebates through either Medicare or your private health insurer for any one session (not both).

What if I need to cancel my appointment?

You can cancel your session up to 48 hours in advance without attracting a cancellation fee.

If you cancel with less than 48 hours but more than 24 hours notice, you will be charged 50% of the session fee.

If you cancel with less than 24 hours notice or don’t show for the session, you will be charged 100% of the session fee.

Regarding cancellations, the time is calculated based on the time stamp of your phone call, voicemail or email to the clinic. If you phone the clinic and leave a message to cancel, the time of that voicemail will be the time used.

We understand emergencies do happen sometimes. If that is the case please call us to discuss what happened.

Remember, you cannot claim a Medicare rebate for a psychology session you did not attend or have cancelled late.

Where do we see you?

We offer sessions in-person at our clinic in Crows Nest, or we can offer online appointments (via a secure Telehealth platform). Once you book your appointment, we will email confirmation details.

Should you choose online appointments, you will need a device with quality internet connection and enough data.

The space in Crows Nest

Do I need a referral?

No. You can book yourself in as a standard fee paying client with no referral necessary.

To access medicare rebates, (e.g., under the Better Access Scheme), you will require a Mental Health Care Plan (written referral) from your GP.

Is there anyone you don't see?

We are not currently taking referrals for:

Couples therapy
Those seeking a full diagnostic assessment of ADHD or Autism (we do offer screening assessments which can assist in determining if a formal assessment is worth pursuing. We also offer psychological therapy to individuals with Autism and ADHD)
Individuals seeking treatment under work cover
Individuals experiencing acute symptoms of psychosis
Family court related matters
Clients seeking a court report
Clients seeking treatment primarily for substance use or eating disorders