Browse FAQ Categories
General
Payments, Rebates and Funding
Information if you are a GP
Privacy Policy
How do I choose a psychologist?
Our reception team will take the time to help match you up with a psychologist based on your personal preferences, availability and what you would like assistance with!
All of our team members are listed on our website, please feel free to take a peek at their bios which includes the areas they are passionate about and their approaches to therapy.
How long does a session take?
A typical session is approximately 50minutes.
What is the difference between a clinical psychologist and a general psychologist?
Both general and clinical psychologists undergo the same minimum amount of years of training (6yrs). Both are trained in therapy. The key difference is that clinical psychologists have more expertise in assessment and diagnosis that is informed by additional training and supervision.
Both general and clinical psychologists will provide you with the same quality of care and treatment, however please speak with our reception if you are unsure which psychologist will be best suited for you!
What does the first psychology session look like?
The first session is really about getting to know yourself, your background and what has bought you to the therapy. The first session also allows yourself and your psychologist to establish some goals for therapy together.
Do I need a referral to book an appointment?
No you don’t need a referral to book a session!
Do you have child psychologists?
Yes! We do have child psychologists on our team. Our psychologists can see children as young as 5years old depending on the presenting issues.
Can I do my sessions via phone or video?
Yes! Our psychology sessions can be conducted by video (ideal) or phone if required.
What is the wait time?
We currently have immediate availability for therapy appointments and assessment appointments.
What if my psychologist and I aren't a good fit?
Whilst building a connection can take a little bit of time, finding a good fit is very important to the therapeutic process and the success of therapy! We completely understand if you feel that your psychologist isn’t a good match for you. We want you to thrive and we will do our best to transfer you to another psychologist who may be a better fit or refer you to another practice that is best suited to you.
Where is Secure Minds Psychology located?
We are located just off the main street of Beaconsfield, at 51 Wallace Street. We have parking available on-site as well as disabled parking and access to the practice.
Do you accept Workcover, TAC or Private Health Funding?
Yes! We accept TAC and Workcover referrals. Certain psychologists within our practice are Workcover and TAC approved psychologists. Out of pocket costs for this type of funding may vary. Please enquire with our reception! Please ensure that you have an approval letter for psychology sessions under TAC or Workcover at the time of booking and we will sort out the rest!
How do I get a Mental Health Care Plan?
A mental health care plan is a type of referral that you can obtain from your GP. Just ensure to let your GP know that you would like a “mental health” consult before booking. With a mental health care plan, you are eligible for an initial 6 rebated sessions. After the 6th session, you have the option to obtain a referral for an additional 4 sessions. In total, you are eligible for 10 rebated sessions per calendar year (refreshing every January 1st).
What makes a Referral/ Mental Health Care Plan valid?
A valid Referral and Mental Health Care Plan must:
- The referral should include the number of sessions approved under Medicare (6 or 4)
- Be completed and signed by a GP
- Include the client’s mental health assessment (Mental Health Care Plan section completed)
- Be current and dated
Can I use a Mental Health Care Plan for relationship counselling?
Unfortunately Medicare is unable to provide rebates for relationship therapy as Mental Health Care Plan’s are designed for individual sessions only. However, you may be able to claim on these sessions if you have private health insurance.
How does payment work?
Our practice takes payment up-front for all Medicare clients, NDIS self-managed clients and Private clients. For Medicare clients, we are able to process your rebate on the spot after your session. For clients who have private insurance, we will be able to send you a receipt after your session to claim with your insurer. For NDIS clients who are plan-managed we will be able to invoice your plan-manager directly for the cost of the session.
What is the cancellation policy?
For all therapy appointments we kindly ask for 48hrs (2 business days notice) for cancellations and rescheduling outside of emergencies. For assessment appointments, we kindly ask for 7days notice due to the length, time and preparation that goes into assessment appointments. For same day cancellations outside of emergencies, a fee of the full cost of the consult may be charged.
We kindly ask you to note that cancellation fee’s are not payable by Medicare or third-parties such as TAC or Workcover.
What is a valid referral under Medicare?
A valid Referral and Mental Health Care Plan must:
- The referral should include the number of sessions approved under Medicare (6 or 4)
- Be completed and signed by a GP
- Include the client’s mental health assessment (Mental Health Care Plan section completed)
- Be current and dated
What is Secure Minds Psychology's Privacy Policy?
You are not obligated to provide your psychologist with all your personal information however in acknowledgment of this the service may be limited. You have the right to confidentiality as a client of Secure Minds Psychology. Confidentiality is limited under the following circumstances: 1) When required by law or when subpoenaed by a court. 2) When information provided places you or another individual/s at serious risk. 3) or the treating psychologist has received written consent by the client. Information discussed will only be used by your practitioner, and the authorised personnel of the practice (as necessary) and any authorised service provider in accordance with the practice’s policy and procedures.