Before your first appointment, you will be required to complete a client intake form. You will also be sent a consent form to read over, however this will be discussed and completed at your first appointment.

Consent forms cover issues such as privacy, confidentiality, and access to information. If you have any questions about these or your rights in therapy, this is a great opportunity to discuss them with your psychologist.

Some people may wish to write down any questions, or main points you feel are important to communicate. If it is hard to clarify exactly what you would like to achieve through seeking psychological support, that’s ok! Your psychologist can help you with this and clarify your therapy goals.

Attending your first appointment with a psychologist can be daunting, and it is very normal to feel nervous and even anxious about doing so. Your psychologist will be aware of this, and will ensure as smooth and comfortable a process for you as possible.

Your psychologist will firstly discuss and complete some paperwork (the consent form, and consent to share information form). It is standard practice for a psychologist to complete these forms.

The first session will mostly focus on getting an understanding of your history/background and what has prompted you to seek psychological support. To do this, they may ask you a number of questions about your life (e.g. about family, school, work, and friends) and overall mental health experiences. You may also be asked to fill out some questionnaires. 

Your psychologist is also there to answer any questions you might have about what to expect from the course of treatment, confidentiality, and treatment.

Therapy appointments will generally go for 50-60 minutes. Shorter appointments are available if required.
Assessments can vary in length, however typically go for three to four hours. Assessments can also take place over two shorter appointments, and sometimes require a shorter follow up appointment (generally conducted via phone) with the client, a parent, or a teacher.

Many people see a psychologist fortnightly for the first two to three appointments, as this can help build a good connection between you and your psychologist. After this, appointments can be spaced out to three weekly or monthly. However, some clients may suit more regular ongoing appointments (i.e. fortnightly or monthly ongoing).

Frequency of sessions can differ between each person and is something that you can discuss with your psychologist to best meet your needs.

Yes, parental involvement is often an important part of the therapy process when working with children. However, the level of involvement can vary depending on the child's age and the type of therapy being provided.

There are different options and referral pathways to see a psychologist.

You don't need a referral to see a psychologist, however without a referral you will need to pay the full cost of your appointments. A referral and Mental Health Care Plan from your GP is recommended and required to access Medicare rebates. If you wish to use private health, you do not require a referral.

NDIS clients do not require a referral from their GP.

For more information, please refer to Funding and Fees (found under Services).

Being an active participant in your sessions and taking an open and collaborative approach with your psychologist is the best way to get the most out of your sessions. 

Some treatment styles will require you to do ‘homework’ between sessions, or practice skills and tools discussed in sessions. Writing a few notes on these experiences between sessions and bringing them in to explore is a useful way to support the transfer of what happens in sessions to your outside world.

On a practical note, ensuring your sessions are at a time and place where you can commit your full attention is important. This means, where possible, eliminating distractions related to work, family, or technology.

We understand that life can be unpredictable and occasionally appointments need to be rescheduled or cancelled. However, we ask that you provide at least 48 hours (2 business days) notice if you need to make changes to your appointment. In the event of a late cancellation, rescheduling, or missed appointment, a cancellation fee will apply.