Question 1

Do I need a referral from my GP?

Accepted Answer

You don't need a referral from your GP unless you would like to claim a Medicare rebate (see below).

Question 2

What rebates are available?

Accepted Answer

Medicare rebates for adults seeking treatment for mental health conditions are available under the Better Health program. The problems treated under this funding initiative are listed here.

Current rebates are - 
$145.25 Clinical psychologists 
$98.95 All other psychologists 
$87.25 Mental Health Social Workers

More information on Better Access and other Medicare rebates for psychologists is available here.

Other third party funding used to fund psychological treatment are Workcover, TAC, DVA, NDIS and private insurers. After funding is allocated by these agencies, referrals can be made to our clinicians.

Please note: we do not make applications for funding or provide assessments or reports for legal or insurance purposes.

Question 3

How do I book a session?

Accepted Answer

Call or email Katie and she will discuss with you

what your needs are
which psychologist might be suitable 
available appointments or waiting times
fees and rebates

Katie will also be able to answer any questions you might have.

Question 4

What's the difference between a clinical and general psychologist?

Accepted Answer

All psychologists hold general registration. Some psychologists have what are called 'endorsements'. This is a specialisation through additional training. There are many different endorsements such as clinical, counselling, educational, neuropsychology, community, forensic, organisational etc. More information about each area of specialty can be found here.

There are psychologists at the Blue Gum Centre with clinical and counselling endorsements. The best way to choose which psychologist might be right for you is to think about your needs, look at our psychologists profiles and see if they have a suitable approach.

All our psychologists are highly trained and competent. Endorsement does not mean 'better' psychologist.

Question 5

What is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker?

Accepted Answer

Accredited Mental Health Social Workers have completed a university degree in Social Work plus additional postgraduate study and experience in Mental Health. They are eligible to provide services which attract a Medicare rebate.  At the Blue Gum Centre for Psychology and Psychotherapy our Accredited Mental Health Social Worker is trained and experienced in the same therapies as the psychologists at the practice.

The main difference between seeing an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker versus a psychologist for therapy is that psychologists (particularly Clinical Psychologists) have more training in the diagnosis of mental health conditions and psychological and cognitive assessments.

Question 6

What are your fees?

Accepted Answer

Our standard appointments are 50 minutes, with an additional 10 minutes included for processing and arranging follow-up sessions.
 
*Out-of-pocket costs are based on current Medicare rebates.

Additional Information:
After-hours appointments (from 4:30pm and Saturdays) incur an additional $20 fee.
NDIS clients are charged according to the NDIS Price Guide.
WorkCover clients can claim a reimbursement of $203.91.
TAC clients have no out-of-pocket expenses.
We accept many other third-party payers—please enquire for details.
Private health extras cover depends on your level of cover with your insurer.