A Snapshot of Common Queries

– Feel free to ask more!

We hope that the information below is helpful – however, if your question is situation-specific or the answer doesn’t appear here, please call us for clarification on 08 9399 1911.

What can I expect from the initial clinical psychological visits?

The first session is for you to meet your clinical psychologist with a view to developing a good and comfortable therapeutic relationship together.

Usually you will be invited to provide some background history about yourself, your experience of stress and what you are seeking some support for. This will help your clinical psychologist understand you and work with you to help you to understand yourself, the impact of different stressors in your life, and the reasons why the symptoms of stress you are experiencing developed.

While your clinical psychologist is an expert in the field of treating psychological problems, the aim is to develop a collaborative approach with you, where the material that is worked through is self-paced and dependent upon you.

What can I expect from seeing a clinical psychologist?

There are a range of different therapies that can be provided depending on what you are wanting help with (please refer to Clinical Psychological Services).

Generally speaking, the main body of the therapy work is to:

• help you develop your awareness – why you do what you do, your ways of defending your experiences of emotions
• provide you with some alternative coping skills
• help you overcome the challenges you may be facing
• support you to believe in yourself and in your ability to make positive changes
• provide you with important skills e.g. to communicate your thoughts and feelings well to others; relate well to others

How many sessions would I need to attend?

Depending on why you are attending and what your goals for attending are, an average of six to twelve sessions would be recommended.

Having said this, it is not uncommon for patients to want to attend a few sessions, while others may want to continue with ongoing treatment and support for more than 1-2 years.

Do I need a referral from my General Practitioner?

Full fee paying patients do not require a referral from their GP.

If you would like to receive a Medicare rebate you will need to see your GP for completion of the GP Mental Health Care Plan paperwork (See GP Information).

Patients currently undergoing a workers’ compensation claim and/or motor vehicle claim would benefit from a referral from their GP.

When is Healthfocus open?

Please see our Contact page for opening hours at our locations.

How much will I have to pay?

Please go to Fees and Rebates for detailed information.

Is there a cancellation fee if I can’t get to my appointment?

Patients are generally contacted the day before their appointment to confirm their appointment. Where patients do not give 24 hours’ notice for not attending an appointment a cancellation fee applies. Please see our Fees and Rebates for details.

How do I open a secure PDF that I have received from Healthfocus?

Please refer to our Secure Document Policy.