We know starting with a new Psychologist can bring plenty of questions. Below you'll find simple, helpful answers to the things families ask us most. If you ever need more information, our team is always happy to guide you.
Your child’s first appointment is a gentle introduction. We’ll spend time getting to know them, understanding your concerns, and gathering background information. This session helps us build rapport, identify key areas of support, and plan the most helpful next steps together.
A Psychologist completes years of university training in mental health, assessment, diagnosis, and evidence-based therapeutic interventions.
Counsellors provide emotional support and guidance but generally do not diagnose conditions or conduct formal assessments.
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can diagnose mental health conditions and prescribe medication, often working alongside Psychologists as part of a broader care team.
If your child is seeing us under a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan, we are required to send your GP a brief update after the first six sessions and at review points. Outside of this, we only share information with your GP (or anyone else) with your consent, unless there is a risk of harm and safety protocols apply.
Your child’s safety and wellbeing are our top priority. Having a parent or caregiver close by ensures we can reach you quickly if needed, and it also supports effective therapy — many sessions involve feedback, guidance, or shared strategies that are most helpful when an adult is available.
This varies but normally a session lasts for about an hour and your child will attend between 6 to 10 sessions. Simple issues may take less time, more complex issues will necessarily require more time.
As part of the federal government’s Better Access to Mental Health Care Initiative, eligible children can receive a rebate from Medicare for psychological services. In order to obtain a rebate from Medicare, your General Practitioner or Psychiatrist must assess your child as eligible to receive a Mental Health Care Plan, following which you can be referred to a psychologist. Once a Mental Health Care Plan has been completed by your doctor, you will be able to obtain a Medicare rebate for up to 10 sessions per calendar year.
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