Psychologist

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Huntingdale Psychology, Counselling & Clinical Hypnotherapy

My usual rate for a 50 minute~ consultation is currently $160 (or $20 extra for evening or Saturday morning appointments). My fees are similar to other Psychologists in the area. The current Australian Psychological Society (APS) recommended fee is $*information hidden*The Medicare rebate (with a GP referral) for a standard session is $86.15, i.e. a "Gap Payment" of $*information hidden*(Or to look at it another way, the Medicare rebate is about one third of what is needed to run a financially viable business.) For those with a Health Care or Pensioner card, I am prepared to offer a "Concession" rate of $100 for weekday (not evening) appointments, this means a $*information hidden*"Gap".

Usually we will take basic contact and other details (if not already supplied) and I will explain various administrative and other requirements, before starting to discuss what brings the client here, to see me. We will probably at some stage of the initial consultation, look at what goals the client has for our sessions as well as doing some screening tests, e.g. to look at levels of Depression, Anxiety and Stress, or other factors, depending on what they are coming to see me about.

I have a 4 year Psychology degree, as well as a Postgraduate degree in Counselling. I am a registered Psychologist, with AHPRA, (the government body that registers Psychologists and various other healthcare related professions).

It has been a "long and wind road", starting work as a clothing factory worker, after leaving that job, (and while studying part time), working for the Social Security Department for about a decade, then when I finished my studies, I worked in various "Human Service" related roles.

In terms of ages, I have worked with clients aged from those aged 16, through to those in their ninety's. I have worked with both individuals and couples. Things that clients have come to see me about include in no particular order; Depression; Anxiety; Stress; Self-Esteem issues; Grief and loss; Management of their anger; Issues related to being Lesbian or Gay (e.g. "coming out" issues, dealing with discrimination etc); Couple difficulties, (e.g. infidelity); Domestic Violence; Difficult workplace settings; Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) difficulties.

Try looking for someone with whom you can develop a good professional relationship (remembering this is a Professional relationship, not a friendship) and has experience in what you want assistance with. It may also be worth asking friends if they know or have had a positive professional relationship with anyone in particular. Also I'd suggest you think about what your concern is "costing" you at present? e.g. not being able to work efficiently, because you are constantly thinking about, or distracted by your "problem", or having negative impacts on your personal relationships. To put it another way, think of "treatment" as being an investment in your mental health.

Do you offer appointments at a time and in a location I can get to? Have you got experience in dealing with my "concern" or similar issues? How much do you charge, (remembering that your session will probably be about an hour long, not a 10 minute consultation, like you might have with your GP). On average how many sessions can I expect to have?