FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why see a Psychologist?

  Psychologists are trained mental health professionals who assist people that may be having a challenging time in their life. Psychologists see people regarding a broad range of issues including depression, anxiety, substance use, relationship issues, adjustment to difficult circumstances, grief and bereavement, anger management, behavioural issues and school or workplace difficulties. Psychologists conduct a thorough assessment of a client’s presenting concerns and develop a collaborative treatment plan to address therapeutic goals.

• What will happen in the first session?

  The first session often begins with an introduction about the process including information regarding confidentiality, privacy and informed consent, as well as fees, rebates, our cancellation policy and failure to attend fees. Then the majority of the session is spent on assessing your situation and getting to know a bit about you, your current and past circumstances, and any difficulties you are having. . This may involve obtaining information about why you are seeking help, what goals you would like to address and may also involve some brief questionnaires.

  Your psychologist will then work with you to establish some goals for your ongoing care and formulate a collaborative treatment plan. These goals will be reviewed as therapy progresses and will be modified as required to ensure maximal benefit from the process. Should you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to raise them with your psychologist, as this feedback is important to tailoring treatment approaches to your needs for a positive outcome.

• How much will it cost?

  Information regarding fees and rebates is available by clicking here.

• What appointment times are available?

  The Mind Collective’s clinic hours are listed here.

• Is there a waiting list?

  Usually we are able to offer an appointment within a week or two, however clients with limited availability or that require after hours appointments may find it useful to book in advance to ensure convenient appointment times. The Mind Collective also operate a Cancellation List, so should you wish to see your psychologist sooner than the earliest available appointment, you can be placed on the Cancellation List and be called should an appointment become available.

• How many consultations will I need

  Session frequency often depends on the preferences and availability of the client, the nature of the presenting concerns and the level of support required. Your psychologist may discuss their recommendations with you, however the frequency of your sessions is your decision.

  Often clients prefer to come weekly initially and then space it out to fortnightly/monthly as their treatment progresses. Clients utilising the Medicare “Better Access” system may wish to be mindful that they are only entitled to Medicare rebates for 10 sessions per calendar year (Jan1st-Dec 31st), and thus may wish to space them out throughout the year to ensure continuity of care.

• How long are consultations?

  Standard appointments are 50 minutes, however 30 minute consultations are available on request should the need arise.

• Do I have to have a referral to come?

  No, clients are welcome to self-refer, however Medicare rebates will not be available without a valid referral. See full session rates here for more information.

• What do Psychologists do?

  Psychologists provide assessment, diagnosis and treatment of mental health issues. This may involve completing questionnaires, answering questions, learning new skills, completing homework tasks, setting goals and improving motivation. Psychologists utilise a variety of evidence-based interventions to alleviate pain and suffering and promote resilience, wellbeing and contentment.

• What is the difference between a General and a Clinical Psychologist?

  There are three main differences between Clinical and General Psychologists, namely

  1) Their qualifications and post-graduate specialised study in Clinical Psychology,

  2) The types of Clinical Services they are eligible to offer and

  3) The level of rebate offered by Medicare.

  Clinical Psychologists are trained in the assessment, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mental health concerns. Medicare distinguishes between Clinical Psychologists and General Psychologists offing larger rebates to Clinical Psychologists commensurate with their specific knowledge and skills. Read more about Clinical Psychology on the Australian Psychological Society website.

• What is the difference between a Psychologist and a Psychiatrist?

  There are three main differences between Clinical Psychologists and Psychiatrists, namely

  1) Their qualifications and experience,

  2) The types of Clinical Services they are eligible to offer and

  3) The capacity to prescribe medications.

  Clinical psychologists are trained in the assessment, diagonsis and treatment of psychiatric disorders, however are not medical doctors and cannot prescribe medications. Clinical Psychologists work with clients on an emotional, cognitive and behavioural level to achieve improvement in mood and a greater sense of wellbeing.

• What if I don't like it?

  There are many reasons why people may find their first appointment with a psychologist challenging. At The Mind Collective, we endeavour to make all clients feel welcome, safe, respected and heard, However should you opt not to proceed, considering what was tricky about it may be useful. It might not be a good time, it may not have felt like a great match, you may not think talking therapies are useful, or may not feel optimistic that anything can be done to help.

  There may be other barriers to engaging with treatment including time, finances or perceived stigma surrounding getting help. If possible, discuss your reservations with your psychologist and they may be able to help problem solve concerns or if you require, link you in with a more appropriate support option that meets your needs and that you feel more positive about.

• What if I can't afford it?

  The Mind Collective strongly believe that the “Better Access” initiative should mean just that – Better Access. Finances should not be a barrier for people accessing healthcare. Thus, should you have any financial concerns, please speak with our friendly clinic staff and they will be able to discuss options to best meet your health needs. We endeavour to maintain affordable session rates with minimal out-of-pocket expenses to ensure finances do not prevent clients accessing assistance. Medicare rebates are also available, click here for more information.

• Do I need to bring anything?

  Please bring your Medicare Card, GP Referral Letter and Mental Health Care Plan, Private Health Insurance Details, TAC or WorkCover Claim Number to your first appointment.

• What if you can't help me?

  If we are unable to assist with your particular concerns or if you require more support than is afforded by the private system, we can help link you in and refer you onto a more appropriate service or practitioner to enable you to get the support you need.