Do I need to see a Psychologist?

Experiencing periods of stress, sadness, grief and conflict is a normal part of life. Sometimes it's difficult to know if you need to see a professional about your experience. The comments I often encounter from clients is that they question whether their situation is, “serious enough” to see me. Visiting a psychologist is not about needing to be ‘fixed’ nor does it imply you are a failure for not solving your concerns. Although psychologists do also identify and manage diagnosable mental health conditions, a diagnosis does not preclude you from having your experience valued and heard in a safe and collaborative space. Seeking support in any form can be a very healing process, regardless of issue, experience, age, race or religion.

Do I need a referral?

You do not need a referral if you wish to see Melinda privately. However, if you wish to obtain a Mental Health Care Plan, you will need to visit your GP prior to your first session.

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What is a Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP)?

Medicare assists individuals seeking psychological support for mental health concerns, by providing a clinical rebate for evidence based therapy sessions. Medicare allows up to 10 sessions per calendar year (1st January- 31st December) where this rebate applies. This means that if you qualify for a MHCP, that you only have to pay the gap for the fee the Psychologist charges.

In order to obtain a MHCP, you need to visit your GP who will ask you a series of questions about how you have been feeling in the past month. If the GP feels you meet criteria for a mental health condition, they will create a MHCP. This MHCP needs to be brought with you to your first session in order to receive the Medicare rebate.


What are the fees?

Good question! The cost of a session with a psychologist will vary. The standard consultation fee is $250.
The recommended fee by The Australian Psychological Society is $300 per session, however Melinda wants to ensure that sessions are more affordable for her clients.

If you have a MHCP, Medicare will provide you with a rebate of $137.05 per session. This then leaves a gap
of $112.95 to be paid for each consultation. Those experiencing genuine financial hardship may be eligible for bulk-billing. Please discuss this with Melinda prior to, or at your first consultation.


How long is a session?

50 minutes, in accordance with Australian Psychological Society standards.
Subsequent sessions typically occur on a weekly or fortnightly basis, dependent upon the client's needs.


How do I get the rebate?

Melinda wants to make attending your session as smooth as possible. Following your session, you will pay the full fee via credit or debit card, and then Melinda will process the rebate online for you. The bank account details that you have registered with Medicare will receive the rebate within 1-2 business days. No need to line up at Medicare, or lodge a claim yourself. 


Can I use private health insurance?

Depending on your provider and whether you have Extras cover, you may be eligible for rebates from your private health insurer. Please discuss this with Melinda at the time of your appointment.


What if I don't 'click' with my Psychologist?

A common concern people have when attending their first session is whether they will feel comfortable enough to speak about their concerns to the psychologist. I will always try my best to accommodate clients and believe in a collaborative approach that suits their needs. Sometimes, for whatever reason, people just don't 'click'. This is perfectly acceptable and if this does occur, it is best to trust yourself as to what you need, and for some, this may mean exploring psychologists to find one that suits best. 

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