FAQs

What Is A Psychologist And How Can We Help?

A psychologist is a highly trained professional who has studied human behaviour and evidence based strategies, to help people learn more effective ways of coping with challenges and mental health problems. Some individuals may seek counselling because they have been feeling depressed, anxious or angry for a long time and others may have short-term problems, such as feeling overwhelmed as a result of starting a new job. Psychologists can help people break past the barriers that keep them from reaching their goals. Psychologists are also trained to administer a number of tests and assessments that can help diagnose a condition or provide information about how a person feels, thinks or behaves. These tests may evaluate intellectual skills, cognitive strengths and weaknesses and personality characteristics. Some common types of therapy interventions include cognitive behaviour therapy, solution focussed brief therapy and acceptance commitment therapy. For some conditions, medication and therapy may be a complimentary approach. In these instances, your practitioner will work with general practitioners, paediatricians and psychiatrists to ensure a cohesive plan and the best outcomes.
What Does Confidentiality Mean?

Confidentiality refers to the protection of personal information such as medical history or progress notes. All files are kept locked and secured and information gathered is not shared without your consent. There are however some exceptions where disclosure may be necessary: Your file is subpoenaed by a court. There is a reasonable belief that you or another person is at serious risk of harm. Your prior approval has been obtained to provide a written report to another professional or agency. e.g. a GP or a lawyer, or discuss the material with another person, e.g. a parent, employer or health provider. Consultation is required with other professionals to provide you with the best possible service. All information is de-identified and you remain completely anonymous. In couples counselling or family therapy, when individuals are seen independently the confidentiality privilege does not apply.
What If I Want To Cancel Or Re-Schedule My Appointment? Will I Be Charged A Cancellation Fee?

As our appointments are valuable, if you need to reschedule or cancel an appointment, you must do this with a maximum of 48 hours notice to avoid paying the full fee. This will also enable us to provide the appointment to other clients in need.
How Does A Psychologist Differ From A Psychiatrist?

A psychiatrist is a trained medical doctor that can prescribe medication and may spend most of their time establishing a medication management plan with their patients. A psychologist focuses on psychotherapy and treating emotional and mental health with behaviour intervention.

Am I Eligible For A Mental Health Care Plan?

Eligibility for a mental health care plan will need to be discussed with a medical professional such as general practitioner, psychiatrist or paediatrician. There can only be one health plan issued per calendar year.
How Long Is A Counselling Session?

Counselling sessions are generally 50 minutes, however children may require less time if they have difficulty maintaining attention and/or motivation.
Can I Claim Assessments Or Reports Through Medicare Or Private Health Insurers

Cogmed working memory training, assessments and report writing are not considered to be a medical intervention and therefore are not covered under Medicare or health insurance.
Why Can Psychology Sessions Be So Expensive?

Embrace Wellness Consultancy recognises that counselling and assessment services can be an added cost to an already expensive world. We aim to maintain the cost of services at an affordable rate to individuals, whilst also ensuring that we are able to meet business costs and maintain a professional standard of practice. The Australian Psychological Society recommends $300 per 50-minute session; however, we understand that this is not achievable for many individuals, hence we keep our fees below the suggested rate, in order to assist you with maintaining regular counselling sessions to achieve your goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

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