What should I expect at my first appointment?
It is normal to feel anxious about your first therapy session. At PsychFX we provide you with a private, safe and respectful environment for you to feel comfortable.
Clinical Psychologists begin by asking you questions about yourself, your life, and any presenting problems you would like to work on.
This is in order to determine current and historical factors that might be contributing to the presenting problem. This is called case formulating, and is used to inform treatment goals in collaboration with a client’s self-identified goals. Together, you will create a plan of how therapy can assist you with these problems, how many sessions it may take, and how frequently you should meet. Prior to your first session it can be helpful for you to ask yourself what changes you would like to make in your life. The aim of therapy is for us to then work together to help you achieve those changes.
PsychFX prides itself on evidence based approaches. Clinical psychologist Amara Inostroza has extensive training and can discuss each approach with you so you make an informed decision on what treatment you prefer.
What’s the difference between a psychologist and a counsellor or therapist?
The difference is in the time spent in formal training to achieve the accreditation.
A Psychologist has completed at least 4 years of education and 2 years of training, a clinical psychologist has completed at least 6 years of education and 1 year of training to attain registration with the Psychology Board of Australia and the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency.
The term ‘Counsellor’ and ‘Therapist’ is not protected in Australia, so unfortunately this title can be misused.
Seeing a Clinical Psychologist ensures that you can be properly diagnosed, and receive ethical and evidence-based treatment.
What is the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist?
Psychiatrist are medically trained and receive further specialised training in mental illness. A psychiatrist will diagnose mental illness and treatment is predominantly pharmaceutical based, with some offering other treatment approaches.
Psychologists will focus on a wholistic psycho-social approach, discuss necessary behavioural changes and clinical techniques to help reduce distress.
Do I need a referral to see a psychologist?
Not necessarily. You can call us yourself to make an appointment, and can self-refer. You can privately pay if you do not want Medicare involved.
If you want a Medicare rebate you will need a mental health care plan from your GP, and they can fax the referral directly to us on 80884711, then we will call you.
If you have private health insurance that includes psychological counselling as extras cover, you may be eligible for a partial rebate on the cost of your appointment.
Are any costs covered under Medicare?
If you have a referral for a Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP or Psychiatrist, you will be eligible to receive a Medicare rebate that covers most of the cost, with a small amount for you to pay.
How do I book?
Whether you have a referral or not, simply request an appointment via email or call us
Call 0400221447
Email: [email protected]
Child and adolescent psychology - Will I be able to come in with them?
The first session is a comprehensive interview with you, the parent, and your child. The following sessions will have the same structure of getting you in at the beginning for a few minutes, spending most of the session with your child, then getting you in at the end for a brief summary. This is to give you regular updates on the sessions and progress.
In the case of adolescents, they may wish to see their psychologist without their parent present. However, it is recommended that a parent is always available to attend the sessions if needed, and parental consent is needed for under 16 years to attend therapy.
How long do I need?
Each session is 50 minutes in length. How many sessions you need depends on your situation and can be discussed with your psychologist. After the first 1-2 sessions, your therapist will discuss what they think is an appropriate amount of sessions to help you address the presenting problem. This way you can set goals and work together on achieving them.
Many factors can influence the length of therapy including the issues you are seeking help with, the coping strategies you already use, your support network and previous treatment you may have had.