FAQs about Professional Therapy in Darwin
Thinking about working with me? Want to know more about counselling?
Talking to a psychologist or counsellor can be daunting, even scary. You may have lots of questions about therapy, rates, rebates or how to make an appointment. I’ve tried to answer as many as possible but if you have a specific question, get in touch via the Contact page or email me.
Rates
The rates differ depending on the type of session.
Individual
An individual 50-minute consultation costs $280, which is below the recommended rate set by the APS. If you have a referral letter and a Mental Health Care Plan, you can access Medicare rebates for individual counselling.
Couples
A 50-minute couples sessions costs $280 and 100-minute couples session costs $560, which is below the recommended rate set by the APS. Couples counselling is not eligible for Medicare rebates.
Telehealth
A 50-minute telehealth consultation costs $280, which is below the APS’ recommended rate. If you have a referral letter and a Mental Health Care Plan, you can access Medicare rebates for counselling via telehealth.
Referrals
No. You can make an appointment to see me without a referral from a GP or a psychiatrist.
Rebates
All clients with a valid GP referral are eligible for a rebate of $137.05 for up to 10 sessions per calendar year.
Couples
Medicare does not provide rebates for couples or marriage therapy.
Appointments
The easiest way to make an appointment is by booking online. Choose the date and time that suit you best, and you will receive a confirmation email. If it is your first appointment, you will receive an Information Letter and an online intake form within 24 hours. This saves time at the first appointment.
If you cancel an appointment with less than five business days’ notice, you will be required to pay the full fee. The full cancellation fee also applies if you forget or miss an appointment.
Yes. Every session is private and confidential which means everything you share doesn’t leave the room. There are two exceptions to this rule: if you are at risk of harm to yourself or someone else, or if my notes are subpoenaed by court. As a clinical psychologist, I’m bound by a Code of Ethics, set by the Australian Psychological Society, ensuring accountability for psychologists.
I use a professional software system called Halaxy. Your health data is stored electronically and protected by bank-grade security and encryption.
Location
My private office is located at 159 Dick Ward Drive in Nightcliff inside the Territory Medical Centre. Upon arrival, go to the reception at the medical centre then make your way to the back of the medical centre to wait in the discrete waiting room near my office.
Clients
No. I only work with adults. All clients must be 18 years and older.
Number of Consultations
This varies greatly from person to person. Initially, I will most likely see you weekly or fortnightly. We will put together a plan detailing the number of sessions and their frequency at the first session. I will make suggestions, but you are welcome to book appointments as often (or as sporadic) as you like. Some people are coming for specific structured treatment, while others are looking for personal development and growth. These are all factors which influence how often you may want to see me.
The length of the treatment depends on a number of factors. It depends on what the issues are, how helpful you find therapy, and how committed you are to the process.
I’d like to stress though that you’re in control. You come and see me when you think there’s value in it.
Payment
Payment can be made by EFTPOS or credit card. Consultation fees need to be paid in full on the day.
No. I run a private practice which means bulk billing is not available. However, the Medicare rebate can be processed at the clinic on your behalf. The rebate will be in your bank account within 48 hours of your appointment.
Consultation Process
Generally, yes. Homework is an important part of therapy. Think about it this way: during one week you spend one hour in therapy while you spend 167 hours doing other things. For that reason it’s essential to put into practice new skills and try out new strategies discussed during treatment.
Types of Therapy
I only work with evidence-based and solution-focused treatments. In other words, I use therapies that are backed up by scientific evidence and a multitude of research studies. I’m a big believer in using treatments that focus on solutions and are value driven.
I have an eclectic approach which means I use a variety of therapies which have proven to be successful across the globe. I use Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness Training and Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
Clinical Psychology
A clinical psychologist has completed a minimum of six years of university training, followed by two years of supervision in a range of mental health settings and has been endorsed to practise in the area of clinical psychology by the Psychology Board of Australia.
A psychologist has completed a university degree focused on the human mind and behaviour and psychological treatment. In contrast, psychiatrists have an undergraduate qualification in medicine which means they are able to prescribe medication.