+ How do I make an appointment?

To make an appointment, you can call, email or book online here to schedule an appointment. Please note that there may be a waiting period for an appointment time based on appointment availability.

+ Where are you located?

40 Gavey Street, Mayfield

It is a large brick building with a red door, signed as the University of Newcastle. On arrival, please take a seat to the right after entering the main entrance and I will meet you at your appointment time.

+ What are your hours?

• 9am - 5pm Wednesday and Thursdays (in person at Mayfield Clinic)
  
• 9am - 3pm Tuesdays and Fridays (Telehealth)

+ What happens in my initial consultation?

Your initial and following appointments will be 50 minutes in length. This session will be an opportunity to see if you feel we are a good fit and for us both to discuss how we can work together on your identified concerns. During the first session, you may be asked:

• What brought you to therapy?
  
• What do you hope to achieve from therapy?

Often a brief overview about your history, including your childhood, education, relationships (family, romantic, friends), your current living situation, and your career may be discussed if appropriate. We will also discuss what sessions will likely look like, the therapy that may best suit your situation, and ins and outs of patient confidentiality. Future visits will be more therapeutic in nature. For example, in your second session, you may explore a specific symptom, problem, or past trauma you mentioned in the first session.

+ How long are therapy sessions typically?

Sessions for individual clients are usually 50 minutes, with 10 minutes allocated to the completion of clinical notes. However, session times can be altered based on the client’s needs.

+ Why should I see a Psychologist?

If you struggling and finding it hard to manage your emotions or just feel like something is not quite right, speaking to someone could help. Speaking to a psychologist can often help to provide strategies and other ways of thinking and coping. Sometimes it can be helpful to talk and share your situation with someone outside of your family and social networks. A Psychologist can help you navigate complex situation and emotions in a supportive and collaborative environment. They can also help keep you accountable and can encourage you to stay on track.

+ Do I need a referral to see a psychologist?

Although a referral is not required to see a Psychologist, you may be eligible to receive a Medicare rebate if assessed by your GP. Many private health funds offer rebates for psychological services, please check rebate details with your health fund.

Refer to fees and rebates here for more information.

+ What are the fees and rebates available?

You can find all the information on the Fees and Rebates page. However, feel free to give me a call if you have any questions.

+ How do session payments work?

Payment is required to be paid in full at your appointment. This can be done via card, cash or direct deposit.

You may be able to claim a partial rebate on the fee of your sessions through your private health fund. However, we are unable to process this rebate at our office. Please contact your private health fund to determine if you are eligible for a partial rebate.

Alternatively, you may speak to your GP about your eligibility to be referred under Medicare’s Better Access to Mental Health Care Initiative. If you are eligible, you will need to complete a Mental Health Care Plan with your GP before scheduling an appointment. This will enable you to receive a partial rebate on the cost of an initial six sessions.

Please see Fees and rebates for more info here.

+ How many sessions do people tend to see a psychologist for?

The number and frequency of sessions are dependent on the area you would like to focus on. Sessions are centred around your needs and goals and are in line with evidence based therapeutic approaches. It is best to discuss this during your first session to get an understanding of what sessions may look like for you.

+ What does client confidentiality mean?

As Psychologists we are required to maintain client confidentiality. Clients need to be aware that we are, however mandated to report to regulating authorities if there is a reasonable belief that a client will harm either themselves or others. Psychologists and other health practitioners are also mandated to report child abuse and domestic violence. Psychologists may also be subpoenaed to court to provide files of evidence. We will discuss these issues with you before any report is made to other agencies. Confidentiality is discussed during the initial consultation.