What does it cost?

Please refer to my pricing page for full details. My standard pricing is significantly below the rate recommended by the Australian Psychological Society (currently $261). I am able to offer lower rates as I only offer telehealth services and so I don't have extra rent costs. Also, my aim is to provide a service that is accessible and affordable for as many people as possible while still being fair to myself. My work includes administrative tasks (e.g., communicating with GP clinics, setting up client files, booking sessions), the therapy session (1 hour), case notes (15-30 minutes), and any follow-up reports where required (e.g., for GP reviews of mental health plans). These fees may be partially covered by Medicare or your private health insurer. Concession rates may also be available for full time students, seniors, concession card holders, and those experiencing financial hardships. If you have some other reason for concession rates that you'd like to discuss with me, please feel free to reach out and ask me.

How quickly can I see you?

I reserve a small number of sessions each week for new clients. This means that I can see most clients for their first session within one week. If you are in an emergency situation or in need of urgent help, please contact emergency services (000) or Lifeline (13 11 14).

Why do you only do sessions via telehealth and outside business hours?

Currently, 4Rs Psychology is a part-time practice. So, first, to make the most of the time available for appointments, I have decided to only take appointments after business hours to cater for clients who cannot take time off their 9-5 job but still require psychological and counselling support. Second, although I recognise that some clients much prefer face-to-face sessions, telehealth sessions are currently the only financially feasible and practical session type I can offer clients. This way of delivering sessions also helps to keep my costs as low as possible.

Can I change my appointment?

I charge 50% of the full fee if you reschedule within 24 hours of your appointment. I do, however, understand that life is busy and emergencies do come up, so I'll work with you to reschedule appointments where ever possible.

What if I miss my appointment?

If you can't make your appointment for any reason, please try to give at least 24 hours notice (1 day). If you provide less than 24 hours notice, you will be charged 50% of the full fee. If you fail to notify us and do not attend (a 'no show'), then you will be charged the full fee.

Why do you charge for cancellations and no shows?

It's often not possible to fill an appointment at short notice, so I charge a fee for late cancellations and no shows to compensate for the lost income. This policy is in line with the Australian Psychological Society Guidelines for cancellation fees.

How secure is telehealth?

I use a secure, encrypted platform for our video calls, so you can rest easy that our sessions are just between the two of us.

Are our sessions confidential?

As a Psychologist, I am bound by strict confidentiality requirements, including the Australian Psychology Society (APS) ethical guidelines and National Privacy Guidelines. This means that I take your confidentiality seriously. The only exceptions to confidentiality are where a court-mandate requires disclosure or when I believe that you are a serious risk of harm to yourself or someone else (otherwise known as my ‘Duty of Care’). In either case, I will discuss this with you before making any disclosure.

What is a mental health treatment plan?

A Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP) is a plan for people with a mental health condition. If you have mental health issues, your doctor can work with you to assess if you qualify for a MHTP. The plan will identify what type of health care you need, and spells out what you and your doctor have agreed you are aiming to achieve. Once you have a MHTP, you can get Medicare funding for up to 20 sessions that year, but need to be reassesed at sessions 6 and 10. Your MHTP will give you a rebate for sessions (currently $88.25).

How do I get a mental health treatment plan?

Talk with your GP. They will work with you to assess whether you qualify for a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP). If you don't have a regular GP, you might be able to find a bulk-billed GP who can provide a MHTP at no cost, but please be aware that some GP's will charge a fee for preparing the MHTP.

How do I know you can help with the thing that is concerning me?

I work with clients presenting with a broad range of mental health needs. That said, some clients do present with complex needs that are outside my knowledge and skill-set. If that happens, I'll be open and honest with you, and I'll help to connect you with someone who is better placed to assist you.

I’ve never spoken to or worked with a psychologist before, what should I expect?

I understand that speaking with a psychologist for the first time can be a daunting experience, but whichever psychologist you choose, you should always feel safe and in control. In our first session, it's an opportunity for us to get to know each other and to ensure that we're the right fit for one another. We'll discuss the concerns that brought you and I together, and then work together to develop objectives for our work together.