FAQ

What happens in a therapy session?

Our sessions will usually involve a conversation in which I help you understand patterns in your thinking, emotions and behaviour. Depending on your goals, sessions might include exploring past experiences, developing coping strategies or working through current challenges. Therapy is collaborative, meaning we’ll work together to decide what to focus on.

Do I need a referral to see a psychologist?
You do not need a referral to book a session privately, but if you want to claim a Medicare rebate, you’ll need a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP. Some private health funds also require a referral, so it’s best to check with your provider.

How do I choose the right psychologist?
Finding a good fit is important. Some people look for someone with experience in a particular area (like trauma, anxiety or ADHD), while others prioritise the therapist’s communication style or values. You’re welcome to ask me anything you like to figure out if I’m the right psychologist for you.

Is therapy confidential?
Yes. As a psychologist, I’m bound by legal and ethical standards to keep your information private. There are some exceptions, such as if there is a risk of serious harm to yourself or others, or if records are subpoenaed by a court. I’ll explain this in more detail at your first session.

How often should I see a psychologist?
This depends on your needs and availability. Some people benefit from weekly sessions, especially early on, while others attend fortnightly or monthly. Together we can agree on a schedule that works best for your situation.

Does online therapy work?

There is a research base showing that online therapy is equally as effective as face-to-face therapy for a variety of common psychological disorders. It’s down to whether you prefer online or face-to-face therapy. Some people prefer to interact in person with their therapist, while others enjoy the convenience and ease of accessibility of online services, or find anxiety a barrier to attending face to face.

How does online therapy work?

Online therapy works in the same way as traditional, face-to-face therapy, but over video conferencing software such as Zoom, or over the phone.

Does Medicare cover online therapy?

Medicare does cover online therapy as part of the Better Access Initiative. In late 2021, the Australian Government committed to funding Telehealth sessions for psychological therapy for at least four years. Please note that Medicare rebates do not cover the full cost of sessions, and are only available to clients located within Australia who have a Mental Health Care Plan.

How do I get a Mental Health Care Plan?

To get the Medicare rebate, you will need a Mental Health Care Plan (part of the federal government’s Better Access Initiative) from your GP. Your GP will ask some questions about your mental health, and then create a plan and accompanying referral to a psychologist for six sessions. After using these sessions, your GP can update your referral for an additional four sessions. 10 is the maximum number of sessions you can be rebated for in a calendar year. Please speak to your GP about Mental Health Care Plans prior to your first session.

Can I get therapy from outside of Australia?

Clients who are outside of Australia are welcome, however, will not be eligible for Medicare rebates. Unfortunately, Medicare requires that clients be located within Australia at the time the service is provided.

Do you take private insurance?

Yes, provided your private insurance covers psychological therapy. Private insurance companies vary (for example, some ask you to obtain a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP), so it’s best to speak to your insurer first to find out what their specific requirements are.

How much does therapy cost?

At Deep Well Psychology, our rates are $250 for a 50-minute session. An additional 10 minutes will be spent on notes for your client file. A Medicare rebate of $145.25 is available for up to ten sessions per year if you have a Mental Health Care Plan.

A limited number of bulk billed places are available for those experiencing severe financial hardship (eg. asylum seekers, individuals with no income and no access to social security payments). Please contact us to discuss your situation and we will do our best to accommodate you.

How do I book with an online therapist?

To book an initial appointment at Deep Well Psychology, please fill out an intake form here.