FAQ - Fees, Where, How much, How does it work? | EMDR Therapy Sydney|Clinical Psychologist

Where are you Located?

Centre for Clinical Therapy

119 Willoughby Rd, Crows Nest

Stairs (1 flight) accessible.

How long are the sessions?

Sessions are usually 50-55 minutes in duration. When you come for your first visit (90 minutes), we will discuss the number of sessions you may need and this will depend on your individual situation. Payment is required at the start of each session.

How much will it cost?

The Australian Psychological Society (APS) recommended hourly fee for Clinical Psychologists in 2018-2019 is $251 per 50 minutes. Our standard fees are $200 per 50 minutes, with a small surcharge ($25) for Saturday appointments. Your first appointment will be a 90 minute assessment and costs $300 (APS recommends $364).

I have a Mental Health Care Plan, do you offer rebates?

Medicare Rebates

Medicare rebates are available for psychological treatment of eligible mental health conditions. You will be able to claim a proportion of your fees from Medicare if your doctor assesses you to be eligible for psychological services under Medicare, and if you have a referral and a “care plan” from your doctor. If you have a Medicare care plan, Medicare will reimburse up to $124.50 per session for up to 10 sessions per calendar year.

At the 6th session, a review will be completed and if further treatment is required, you will need to revisit your GP or Paediatrician for a review of your Mental Health Care Plan, to receive the further 4 sessions.

A referral is not necessary to make an appointment to see me nor to claim through your private health fund. A referral is only required if you intend to claim a rebate from Medicare.

If you are referred by your GP or Paediatrician under a Mental Health Care Plan, Medicare will pay rebates for up to 10 sessions, per calendar year. At the 6th session, a review will be completed and if further treatment is required, you will need to revisit your GP or Paediatrician for a review of your Mental Health Care Plan, to receive the further 4 sessions.

Do you offer EMDR Therapy in Sydney?

Yes I do. I am an EMDR Accredited Practitioner with EMDR Australia. See EMDR therapy Sydney

What about Private Health Fund rebates?

Private health funds differ in their cover so please check with your health fund to find out if you are covered for clinical psychology services. I am registered with HCF.

What happens if I don’t turn up?

A cancellation fee will be charged for missed appointments unless 24 hours prior notice is given.

Can I Get My Life Back?

Whether it’s the loss of a relationship, a recent move or gradual shift into becoming someone we don’t like, I want to normalize that sense of hopelessness and frustration that we tend to feel. I love helping people explore who they want to be in this next season with a sense of purposefulness and confidence of their worth. Together, we honor past experiences and help integrate them into better relationships and happier living.

When will I see change?

Many people have depended on the “7 Quick Tips” ideology in hopes of finding change. This can be seen in the fitness industry, and even mental health. I am with the school of the thought that we often see immediate change in both of these areas when we finally put some time in. However, real change evolves with commitment, motivation, and some time. Let’s sort out together what kind of change you are looking for and how I can help.

How long will therapy take?

My average length of treatment in my practice is about 10 – 20 sessions. That being said I have clients who only come in one time and many who stay with me for a few years. I believe the wide variance of length is primarily correlated to motivation level, presenting problem and therapist-client connection. I am happy to talk with you about what you are hoping for with treatment length and if that would work within my scope of clinical practice.

What makes you different from other therapists?

I happen to know exactly whom I am committed too and able to help in my therapy practice. I love helping adolescents and adults find a renewed sense of love and belonging with their loved ones and with themselves. I love being able to watch all areas of their life improve when they address trauma, poor self-esteem, depression, and relationship distress. And, I love seeing how life unfolds in renewed, life-giving and purposeful ways. If this fits what you are looking for I invite you to get in touch with me.

How do I know if I need therapy?

Often people wonder if they “need” therapy, but it is interesting they don’t ask the same about exercising or eating healthy. I believe your emotional health merits the same priority as your physical health and that you usually don’t need to work out or go to therapy, though both are incredibly beneficial to your well-being. If you came across my website in search of something, then there is probably a part of you that is seeking and desiring help. Don’t ignore this inner voice; this decision could get you in the best “emotional shape” of your life.

Can this feeling go away?

I believe it can. Whether the feeling is overwhelm, sadness, anxiety, unworthiness or something else I have seen terrible emotions and unhealthy beliefs dissipate when both the you and I are motivated. We’ll discuss things like the history behind the feeling, triggers, possible medication management and coping options that will help you feel better. We can be a team to create new and more positive thoughts and emotions.

What will therapy look like for me?

Each session runs 50 minutes and may be once or twice weekly, depending on your needs. I begin and end on time in order to respect both of our schedules and put parameters around the counseling process. I offer concierge phone services for those who may be in need of more quick relief and support throughout the week. If you are interested, feel free to discuss this with me.

What types of clients do you work with?

I work with children, teens and adults in a safe, inviting and confidential setting in Crows Nest. Though I focus on trauma and helping people through transition, my training as a Couples Therapist qualifies me to work with anyone who is in need of improvement with relationships of any kind. Because I use an insight oriented approach in therapy, I have seen the best success working with highly motivated clients who are committed and invested in the work involved with their own personal growth.