Why do people consult a psychologist?
People consult psychologists for a range of reasons. Sometimes it is to seek help to manage uncomfortable or distressing symptoms that are impacting their life such as negative thoughts, low mood, poor self-esteem, anxious feelings, difficulties with drug use or symptoms associated with a mental health issue or clinical disorder. Other times people consult a psychologist to have a safe and supportive space to work through conflicts and stressors they may be experiencing in their personal or professional life such as relationship breakdown, workplace stresses, bullying, low productivity and managing life changes. People may consult a psychologist after a significant event has occurred or may consult them when they feel ready to start discussing long-standing issues or patterns that have led them to where they are today.
On the other hand, some people may feel relatively satisfied but want more in life so consult a psychologist to have regular sessions to help them self reflect, gain insight, increase their motivation, build their skill set and general well-being. At HGC PSYCHOLOGY we will work with each individual to establish what their personal goals are and tailor our services to meet their specific needs.
What is the difference between a psychologist, clinical psychologist, psychiatrist, counsellor and life coach?
With so many different professions offering support, it is important to understand the difference between each of them. Life coaches work with individuals to establish goals and helps them to achieve. There are no minimal qualifications, regulatory bodies or standards of care for life coaches and anybody can be one. A counsellor will often use talking therapy to help people reach their goals and may reflect upon past issues to help people resolve their problems. However, similar to a life coach, the level of training a counsellor has received can be varied. There are no laws or regulations regarding who can call themselves a counsellor. It is important to clarify what experience and qualifications a life coach or counsellor may have. Given training can vary, the therapy skills provided by a life coach or counsellor may not be evidence based interventions. Psychologist are professionally trained in the science of how people think, feel, behave and learn.
A psychologist is required by law in Australia to have undertaken a minimum four year university degree, with additional significant practical experience working with clients providing assessment, diagnosis and evidence based treatments. Given this level of training, psychologists are then able to diagnose clients and provide Medicare and other rebates for their services. There are also strict ethical and conduct guidelines that all psychologists must adhere to as outlined by the Psychology Board of Australia (PBA) and Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) including undergoing ongoing training and supervision to uphold their registration as a psychologist. A clinical psychologist has completed additional training and experience to a general psychologist and has been endorsed by AHPRA to use the title of clinical psychologist. Furthermore, their specialised skill set is also recognised by Medicare which allows them to provide a greater Medicare rebate.
Psychiatrists are medical specialists who have also completed extensive university training and practical experience providing assessment, diagnosis and treatment to patients. Unlike psychologists, psychiatrist are able to prescribe medication to their patients to help treat severe mental health disorders. Psychiatrists are also able to provide Medicare and other rebates and are registered with regulatory bodies. Often psychologists, GPs and psychiatrists work closely together to ensure comprehensive treatments are provided. You have the right to enquire about any helping professionals qualifications, professional organisation affiliations, code of ethical conduct and professional experience.
Once you decide you need a psychologist, how do you find the right one?
There are many psychologists in the western suburbs and Bacchus Marsh providing quality services. Research has shown that the most important factor for successful outcomes in psychological treatment is the relationship you have with your psychologist. This is why it is so important to find the one that is the best fit for you. Your psychologist should conduct themselves with professionalism whilst helping you with your concerns and reach your goals. During this process you should feel safe, supported and heard, whilst challenged, and be able to discuss any issues you may be experiencing without being judged. You should feel confident that your psychologist has your well-being as their main priority and is capable of helping you.
What is confidentiality?
At HGC PSYCHOLOGY we take confidentiality seriously. It is natural to be concerned about your privacy when you are talking about your personal issues with a psychologist. Confidentiality means that the information discussed and obtained from you is kept private and cannot be disclosed to anyone without your prior consent. Your psychologist will ask you to sign a consent form before they disclose information to another person, such as your GP or lawyer. There are some legal limitations to confidentiality such as when your information is subpoenaed by a court or where failure to disclose information would place you or another person at significant risk. These limitations will be discussed with you further during your first session at HGC PSYCHOLOGY.
What should I expect from a psychology appointment?
People often are unsure what to expect from a psychology appointment and it is understandable to feel nervous talking to a stranger about your personal details. Psychologists at HGC PSYCHOLOGY will help you feel comfortable in the appointment so you feel supported and safe to share your information and concerns. During your first appointment your psychologist will explain their approach, discuss the expectations of each session and work collaboratively with you to understand your situation and establish treatment goals. This will require them to talk with you about your current situation, background and other factors to help them understand you and your needs. You will also always have an opportunity to ask any questions you may have. You will also be provided with feedback and helpful tools and suggested activities for you to complete. By the end of the first appointment you should have an understanding of the number and frequency of appointments you may require and an overall treatment plan.
How often do I need to see my psychologist and for how long?
Each psychology appointment is for approximately 50 minutes with the last 10 minutes used to process your payment and complete the required administration process. The number and frequency of appointments required varies. Usually the more severe psychological issue the greater number of frequent sessions required. However it is often dependent upon your goals. In the beginning it is helpful to have appointments more regularly (weekly) during what is referred to as the ‘assessment’ phase. During the second phase of treatment, called the ‘working’ phase, you can have more frequent appointments (weekly to fortnightly) and then spread them out as you need during the final ‘maintenance’ phase (monthly to quarterly). Your psychologist will discuss the treatment plan with you in the first appointment and it can be reviewed throughout your treatment.
Do I need a referral to see a psychologist?
A referral is not necessary for an appointment with a psychologist at HGC PSYCHOLOGY. Just contact us today to book your appointment. However, if you wish to access a Medicare rebate, you must have a referral and mental health care plan (MHCP) from your GP. Once you have your referral please contact HGC PSYCHOLOGY to book your appointment and send a copy of your referral to through prior to your first appointment.
Can I get private health insurance or Medicare rebates?
Yes, you can use private health insurance or a Medicare rebate but not both at the same time. You will be charged the full fee by HGC PSYCHOLOGY and then you can claim your relevant rebate once the appointment is finalised. Please check with your private health insurance provider to determine your extra entitlements. Psychologists are able to provide Medicare rebates for up to 10 sessions per calendar year. Medicare will refund a portion of the appointment fee. To access the Medicare rebate you will need to obtain a referral from your GP and a mental health care plan. Please note that HGC PSYCHOLOGY is not a bulk billing service and after the Medicare rebate you will incur an out-of-pocket expense (standard rebates range from $89.65 to $137.05 per appointment).
How do I get a mental health care plan?
To obtain a mental health care plan you will need to book an appointment with your GP who will determine if you are eligible for a mental health care plan. If you are, they will then refer you to a psychologist of your choice or you can ask for a mental health care plan referral to HGC PSYCHOLOGY. Please send your mental health care plan referral to HGC PSYCHOLOGY before your first appointment to ensure you are able to receive the Medicare rebate.
Do you provide EAP counselling?
Yes we do. If you would like to access Employee Assistance Program (EAP) counselling please contact your employer’s HR department or management to determine if HGC PSYCHOLOGY can be your EAP provider. If HGC PSYCHOLOGY is your EAP provider then book your EAP appointment and your employer will fund your sessions. If you are from a small business looking for an EAP provider for your employees please contact HGC PSYCHOLOGY to discuss your needs and the services we can offer.
Do you provide workplace training?
Depending upon your needs, HGC PSYCHOLOGY may be able to tailor a training package to suit your team or workplace. Please contact HGC PSYCHOLOGY to discuss our training packages further.
Does HGC PSYCHOLOGY provide reports?
HGC PSYCHOLOGY does not provide expert opinion reports, rather they are able to provide psychological treatment summary reports. However please note that a report request will only be considered after 4 to 6 appointments have been attended. The recommended Australian Psychological Society (APS) report writing fee will be charged (currently $300 per hour) and will need to be paid prior to the report being released.
How do I book an appointment with a psychologist at HGC PSYCHOLOGY?
If you would like to discuss our services or book an appointment please contact HGC PSYCHOLOGY either by phone, email or by using our enquiry form on the website. If you have a strong preference for an appointment time it is recommended to book several appointments in advance as time slots fill quickly.
What are the fees?
The current recommended hourly fee as set by the Australian Psychological Society (APS) is $300 per 45 to 60 minutes session, however HGC PSYCHOLOGY have decided to provide services at a reduced fee to the APS recommendation.
Standard appointments between 9 am and 4:30 pm are $214 (50 minutes).
After hours appointments between 4:30 pm and 7 pm and Saturday appointments are $230 (50 minutes).
Supervision sessions start from $185 per hour including GST for peer supervision and endorsement and registration supervision is also available. Group supervision rates are negotiated depending upon your needs and number of participants.
Report writing is charged at $300 per hour.
Please note private health insurance and Medicare rebates may apply for eligible clients, although HGC PSYCHOLOGY is not a bulk billing practice. Reduced rates are available for those holding a valid concession or health care card. All fees are payable in full on the day of each appointment, unless clients have been granted funding by an external agency (NDIS, VCAT, TAC, Employers, etc).
What is the cancellation policy at HGC PSYCHOLOGY?
At times life happens and you may need to reschedule or cancel your appointment. We ask that you provide 24 hours notice otherwise a cancellation fee will apply. Psychology appointments are in high demand and providing notice allows us to fill your appointment time with somebody else from our waiting list. If under 24 hours notice is provided, the full appointment fee will be charged.
Who do I contact if I need urgent help?
HGC PSYCHOLOGY is not a crisis service. If you require immediate assistance please contact emergency services on 000. If you would prefer you could also contact Lifeline – a 24 hour crisis service on 131 114. Please also refer to our Resources section for other helpful supports.
What are the references for the statistics displayed on the home page?
- Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2019). National Health Survey: First results, 2017-18. (No. 4364.0.55.001). Canberra: Australian Capital Territory: Author.
- Whiteford, H.A., Buckingham, W.J., Harris, M.G., Burgess, P.M., Pirkis, J.E., Barendregt, J.J., et al. (2014). Estimating treatment rates for mental health disorders in Australia. Australian Health Review, 38, 80-85.
- Gallup (2017). State of the American Workplace. New York: Gallup Press.
- Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2019). Causes of Death, Australia 2018: Intentional self harm in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. (No. 3303.0). Canberra, Australian Capital Territory: Author.
- TNS. (2014). State of Workplace Mental Health in Australia. Melbourne: Beyond Blue.
- TNS. (2014). State of Workplace Mental Health in Australia. Melbourne: Beyond Blue.
- Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2018). National Health Survey: First results 2017-18. (No. 4364.0.55.001). Canberra, Australian Capital Territory: Author.
- Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2008). National Survey of Mental Health & Wellbeing: Summary of Results, 2007. (No. 4326.0) Canberra, Australian Capital Territory: Author.