Frequently Asked Questions:

Do I need a Referral?

It is not necessary to have a referral to see a psychologist. You are quite welcome to simply call and book an appointment.  However, if you think you may be eligible for a rebate then you will require a referral from your GP.

Am I Eligible for a Rebate?

There are a number of schemes available to assist in funding counselling for eligible people
  • Medicare Explained: Mental Health Care Plans
The most common rebate scheme is through the Medicare -  Better Access to Mental Health Care initiative.  This involves you having an assessment with your GP to determine if you have a diagnosed Mental Health Disorder.  This is a term used to describe a range of clinically diagnosable disorders that significantly impact on a person's emotions, thoughts, social skills, and decision making, such as: depression, panic disorder, sleep problems, post-traumatic stress disorder and alcohol use disorder.  If you fit into this category then your GP can complete a Mental Health Care Plan for you which entitles you to a rebate on a maximum of 10 sessions with a psychologist per calendar year.
  • What about my Private Health Insurance?
If you have private health insurance with extras cover you may be eligible for a refund of a portion of your session fee.  Each health fund operates differently and it's best to check with yours directly.

  • Other Third Party Insurers 
People may also be referred for counselling via a number of other sources for funded sessions.  These include the Transport Accident Commission (TAC), the Victorian Workcover Authority (VWA), the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) and Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (VOCAT).  These referrals are also facilitated by a GP and pre-approval for funding is granted by the relevant organisation.

Privacy

Psychologists will provide you with information on privacy and confidentiality relevant to the organisation in which they work.  The following is an example from my practice:
Information you share with me will be kept strictly confidential and will not be disclosed without your written permission.  I generally like to liaise with your treating doctor so that we can work together to support you, and I’ll ask you to sign an agreement to allow me to do this. By law there are some situations where it may be necessary for me to disclose personal information about you; namely, if I believe that you are a risk to yourself or to someone else, or in situations where children are put at risk (such as by abuse or neglect), or in response to a court subpoena.  If you have questions or concerns about your privacy please ask.    

What's the Difference between a Psychologist and a Psychiatrist?

Psychologists study the mind, human behaviour and mental illness.  They train in providing a range of services to assess, diagnose, treat or prevent problems. These include: counselling (in a variety of therapeutic modalities), psychoeducation, consulting, coaching and hypnotherapy, and are provided in a range of settings.  Psychologists cannot prescribe medication.  Psychiatrists are medical doctors who complete further specialised study in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mental illness. They can prescribe medications such as anti-depressants, or mood stabilisers, and some also provide non-medication therapies. 





​Dr Melissa Glenwright, Clinical Psychologist, 8/21 Shields Street Flemington