North Shore and Northern Beaches Psychology and Relationship Counselling

Q: How many sessions will I need to commit to?

The number of sessions for each individual will vary depending on the type of issues, severity of the problem/s and the goals negotiated during your first session. On average, people attend between 6-10 sessions for short term/ brief intervention. There is often regular review and feedback which will keep you involved in the treatment process.

 

Q: Do I need a mental health diagnosis to see a psychologist?

No. Most people at some stage of their life experience stress and struggle relating to the daily demands of living. Psychologists can help with supporting you and also build better coping mechanisms in order to deal with any stress or transitional issues.

 

Q: Isn’t counselling expensive and what if I can’t afford it?

We like to think of therapy as a investment towards a better life. Think about the losses you are accumulating by having these difficulties in your life. Most services are rebateable under major health funds or Medicare. If you do not have health subsidy entitlements, we may be able to discuss short term therapy. My solutions focussed approach to treatment means that you could still benefit in attending at times of crisis and we could provide immediate help with the current problems you’re facing. Reduced rates are available for pensioners or health care card holders.

 

Q: How many sessions do people tend to see a psychologist for?

Every person has a different journey through therapy. This is largely dependent on the nature of why they are coming in and what it is that they are hoping to get out of sessions.

Some people come to see a psychologist to develop coping strategies to reduce or manage symptoms of mental illness. This type of work can be short to medium term, but might also involve checking in less frequently over the longer-term to deal with setbacks or prevent relapse.

Other people come to therapy to understand long-standing patterns (such as relationship issues) that stem from experiences during their childhood, or to receive ongoing support. This type of work tends to happen over an extended period of time, although again, this is dependent on client preferences.

Sometimes people come to therapy for a one off session or just a handful of sessions to speak about a specific issue in their life or to talk through a particular concern. Although problems and challenges are typically what bring people to a psychologist (at least initially), therapy can also be a space for self-development and growth.

 

Q: What should I expect from our first session?

The aim of the first appointment is to gain a thorough understanding of the difficulties that have led an individual to seek therapy. Typically time is spent discussing in detail an individual's concerns as well as disclosing information about their history, family background, key relationships, interests and study/work history. In some cases, assessment of the problems and gathering relevant background information about the client may require more than one session.

This first session also provides the individual with an opportunity to raise any questions regarding therapy and to discuss their treatment goals and expectations about treatment. While it is important that the therapist conducts an assessment to determine how they might be able to help the client it is equally important for the client to determine if they feel comfortable with the therapist and if the therapist is someone they could talk to openly and honestly.

 

Q: What is the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist?

Psychologists are health professionals who work in a range of areas including clinical, health, neuropsychology, sports, forensic, organisational and community settings. To become a fully registered psychologist you must undertake an undergraduate degree, an Honours degree and at least two years of supervised training and further education in the field of psychology (either a Masters or Doctorate degree).

Psychologists assist people with everyday concerns such as stress and relationship difficulties, as well as mental health issues. Psychologists use “talk therapies” to help people to develop skills to cope with difficulties and to prevent on-going issues. There are a large number of research studies supporting the effectiveness of psychological therapy.

Psychiatrists have completed a medical degree and further training and study related to the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness. Psychiatrists specialise in the medical treatment of mental illness and can prescribe medication. Some psychiatrists combine medication with therapy.

 

Q: Do you provide Medico-legal reports?

Dr Blakeley-Smith does not provide reports for medico-legal purposes.

 

Q: What is the difference between a counsellor and a psychologist?

Counsellors can come from a broad range of training and backgrounds. Currently in Australia the term “counsellor” is not protected. This means that anyone can refer to themselves as a counsellor. Having said this many counsellors have undertaken training and education in educational settings, ranging from a Diploma up to a Masters degree. An organisation called the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA) has also been set up to protect the standards and ethical training of the counselling profession.

 

Q: Do you receive a Medicare or a private health insurance rebate when you see a psychologist?

Medicare: Anita's fees remain under the recommended rates determined by the Australian Psychological Society.  If you have a referral from a GP or a psychiatrist for a Mental Health Treatment Plan you will be eligible to receive a Medicare rebate of $124.50 (for a clinical psychologist) and $84.80 (for a general psychologist) per session for up to 10 sessions per calendar year.

Private Health Insurance: If you have private health insurance that includes psychological counselling as extras cover you may be eligible for a partial rebate. It is recommended that you contact your individual insurance provider for further information about your individual coverage.

 

Q: How do I know if I am eligible for the Medicare rebate?

You will need to make an appointment with your GP who will assess whether you are eligible for a Mental Health Treatment Plan. A Mental Health Treatment Plan will enable you to claim a Medicare rebate of $124.50 (for a clinical psychologist) or $84.80 (for a general psychologist) per session for a maximum of ten sessions per calendar year.

To be able to claim the Medicare rebate for your session you will need to bring a copy of your Mental Health Treatment Plan to your first appointment with your psychologist.

 

Q: Do I need a referral to see a psychologist?

No, you do not need a referral. You can make an appointment with a psychologist without a referral from your GP or a psychiatrist. If you decide to do this you will need to pay the full amount for your sessions out of your own pocket.

 

Q: How long are sessions with a psychologist?

Sessions are approximately 50 minutes long.

 

Q: How does confidentiality work with a psychologist?

All information that you disclose in your session with a psychologist is confidential. There are two exceptions to this rule. The first exception is if you are at risk of harm to yourself or someone else and the second exception is in relation to court orders. If either of these situations become relevant your psychologist will discuss this with you.

There can be lots of questions that come up when you’re trying to make a decision about whether to see a psychologist. If you have a question that we haven’t answered here, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. You can send us a message over at our contact page or email: anitablakeleysmith2075@gmail.com. Anita will get back to you within one business day.