Professional help from an experienced psychologist
Should I see a Phsychologist?
Sometimes we may need the help of a professional to help us resolve difficulties. Maybe it’s because of a family or work-related problem, personal psychological distress or a relationship breakdown. Perhaps you want to improve your self-esteem, or develop skills to assist in daily living or to overcome obstacles in your life.
If I want to seek help, how do I know what option is best for me? Why should I see a Clinical Psychologist? What can a Clinical Psychologist do to help me?
These are common questions people ask before they make the decision to contact a psychologist and make a change to their life.
Clinical Psychologists are trained in human behavior and complete further postgraduate training after finishing their undergraduate degree. They help people to find ways of functioning better through the use of proven psychological therapies. As a Registered Psychologist I am required to update my skills each year and hence I am able to assist you using a wide variety of techniques which are both effective and up to date.
Clinical Psychologists treat a range of problems including depression, trauma, anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, relationship difficulties, anger management issues, work related stress, self-esteem, eating disorders, and habit problems such as smoking.
Clinical Psychologists also have specialist training in the assessment and diagnosis of mental health problems. They are also trained in a range of techniques and therapies that are effective in treating mental illness.
What is the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist?
A Psychiatrist is a qualified medical doctor who has obtained qualifications to become a specialist in the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness. They can prescribe medication whereas Psychologists are not trained in medicine and cannot prescribe. Psychologists assist you through proven therapeutic techniques to help change behaviour.
Can I get a rebate?
Medicare Australia at current advises that up to 10 individual sessions of counselling with a psychologist can be claimed in a calendar year if a GP places you on a GP Mental Health Care Plan.
How many sessions will I need?
It is difficult to estimate how many sessions are required for you to recover. It depends on the severity of your symptoms and your rate of recovery. Some people are happy to simply talk through a problem in a few sessions, while others require therapy for a longer period. Margaret is skilled in maintaining focus and working towards your improvement at a reasonable pace.
For most common problems, clients will usually attend between 6 and 18 sessions.
Is what I disclose to you confidential?
All psychologists are bound by a Code of Ethics which can be found on the Australian Psychological Society’s website. All information you disclose during psychological services you are receiving is confidential.
Do I need a Doctor’s referral?
You do not need a referral to use your Private Health cover.
You do not need a referral if you pay for the consultation yourself.
If you are intending on receiving a rebate from Medicare Australia it is essential you visit your GP first and discuss being placed on a GP Mental Health Care Plan. Without a GP placing you on a GP Mental Health Care Plan the Medicare Rebate cannot be received for psychological services.
What does therapy involve?
A consultation with Margaret usually lasts for an hour. The initial assessment is a time to determine the kind of the problems that you would like help with in future sessions. Planning future therapy involves negotiation between you and Margaret. The length of time taken to complete therapy varies, depending upon the nature of the problem.
For most common problems, clients will usually attend between 6 and 18 sessions.