What are the costs ?
The cost of a standard 50 minute approx. private session is:
$ 190 (in person and telehealth) depending upon the type of service and time of day.
Please note that this is significantly less than the fee of $ 300 for (46-60 minutes) currently recommended by the Australian Psychological Society.
Other services have additional or different fees, e.g. Extended sessions (e.g. 90 minute trauma therapy), services for Corporate and external organisations, After-Hours sessions, Reports, and Clinical Supervision (Please call to discuss first).
Do I need a referral to see a Psychologist ?
​No. You do not need a referral to see a Psychologist but be aware that you will not be able to claim Medicare rebates for services, and this will be more costly. Some people however like the freedom to attend on a private basis without a formal referral and Mental Health Care Plan.
Medicare rebates are available if you have a valid referral and Mental Health Care Plan from your Doctor / GP.
You can currently obtain up to 10 sessions with Medicare rebates per calendar year.
The rebate for a standard session with a Psychologist is currently $ 93.35. In the case of a $ 190 session, the out of pocket cost to you is then $ 96.65.
We can process the Medicare rebate for you, and this is usually paid back to your bank account by the next business day.
Private Health Funds may offer rebates too. Please enquire with your own fund for details.
How long is a session ?
The length of a standard session is approximately 50 minutes. Longer sessions at additional cost are available by prior arrangement.
Do you accept NDIS or DVA referrals ?
Yes, NDIS referrals with funding for Psychology included in the plan (self managed and agency managed only) can be accepted. NDIS referrals can be billed directly at the approved rates (no cost to you). You would need to complete and sign a Service Agreement to commence. Please contact the practice to discuss suitability and practical arrangements if you have an NDIS Plan and referral. DVA referrals can be accepted if you have a proper referral from your GP, and you are a Gold or White Card Holder with DVA. This can be billed direct to DVA (no cost to you).
What is the delay for a new appointment ?
Availability varies depending upon current demand, but is usually within 2 weeks. Please enquire now if you are interested.
How do I pay ?
EFTPOS is available, and most credit cards and cash are accepted. For Telehealth sessions, prior payment by bank transfer is required.
Are sessions confidential ?
Your psychology consultations are confidential. When you are referred by your Doctor / GP with a Mental Health Care Plan, your Doctor would normally receive some communication and feedback as per Medicare requirements. With your consent your care can be discussed with your other practitioners. There are some rare exceptions to confidentiality; these can relate to legal requirements e.g. Subpoena, Child Safety, and where there is a risk of significant and imminent danger to self or others.
Do you bulk-bill with Mental Health Care Plans ?
No, this is not a bulk-billing practice; this is unfortunately due to the lower Medicare rebate for Psychologists (even very experienced ones), past freezing of rebates and rising practice costs, e.g. rental, registration and insurance, and professional development required.
If affordability is an issue, as an alternative most areas have some low cost or even free services depending upon income, such as Community Health Services, e.g. Peninsula Health & Frankston Community Health Service. Phone: 1300 665 781
Your Doctor may also be able to refer you to the Access to Psychological Services (API) program if this is available in your area; this may be an option if you have a Health Care Card / low income.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule an appointment ?
I understand that this may sometimes need to happen. Please try to provide at least 24 hours notice otherwise a late cancellation fee or non attendance fee may be charged.
What Ages do you see and what areas do clients attend from ?
I usually see clients 16 Years and above.
Clients attend from a variety of locations, including Frankston, Frankston South, Mount Eliza, Mornington, Somerville, Mount Martha, Langwarrin, Cranbourne, the Mornington Peninsula and other Bayside suburbs such as Seaford, Carrum, Patterson Lakes, Chelsea, Mordialloc, Mentone, Parkdale, Cheltenham and Beaumaris.
If sessions are by Telehealth, clients can be seen from almost anywhere if this appropriate.
Enquiries & Referrals: Ph: 0400 203 226
Days / Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 am to 6 pm.