Question 1

What is a psychologist?

Accepted Answer

Psychologists are registered with The Psychology Board of Australia to ensure practitioners have the skills and qualifications to provide safe care and psychological services to the Australian community. Psychologists have completed university studies in the science of behaviours, thoughts and emotions. They have professional training and clinical skills that allow them to help people deal more effectively with life problems and alleviate distress. Psychologists are trained to use psychometric testing and clinical interviewing to gather information, make diagnoses and plan and implement treatment. Psychologists do not and cannot prescribe medications.

Registered psychologists are therapists with university qualifications, and meet the ongoing professional development criteria to ensure a standard of care to the community.

Question 2

When should I seek psychological treatment?

Accepted Answer

People seek psychological treatment for a variety of reasons, and at different stages in their lives. There is no rule or set structure for when someone should speak with a psychologist.

Some of the most common reasons are for treatment of depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem or work stress.

Some clients find these sessions help them to manage their mental health so that they can respond better to unpredictable life stressors.

People can attend therapy alone or with their partners (couples counselling).
If you are in an emergency, please refer to resources for crisis information as a guidance.

Question 3

Am I eligible for the Medicare rebate?

Accepted Answer

If you have a Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP, you will be eligible for a Medicare rebate for up to ten psychological treatment sessions per year to assist with the cost of the counselling sessions. To be eligible for a Mental Health Treatment you need to be diagnosed with a mental health condition such as anxiety or depression. The plan identifies treatment options, support services available and goals you and your GP have agreed on. To organise a Mental Health Treatment Plan make an appointment with your GP.

Question 4

What should I expect on my first visit?

Accepted Answer

I think it’s useful to prepare for the first session by thinking about the outcome you would like from counselling. If you can't come up with something, that's ok, it can be part of the counselling process. During the first session, we will go over limits of confidentiality, plus discuss your concerns and areas you would like to work on. You may need to provide some information on your history and background. We will look at treatment options and plans, and answer any questions you may have. Most people report that they feel a lot better after the first session.

Question 5

How long is a treatment session?

Accepted Answer

Sessions run for 50 minutes.

Question 6

What are the available times and days for appointments?

Accepted Answer

I work from the Coffs Wellbeing Centre, 89 West High St, Coffs Harbour, on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays between 9.30am -5.30pm. To book a time or to discuss working together, please call +61 408 883 309.

Question 7

How many sessions will I need?

Accepted Answer

After your initial session, we will book you in for three to six appointments to ensure you have a regular place.

The therapeutic process differs depending on the individual and the complexity of the issues presented. It is dependent on factors such as previous treatment, support networks and coping strategies.

Freya is experienced in providing both long and short-term treatment and developing specific treatment plans based on your needs.

Question 8

How much does it cost to see a psychologist?

Accepted Answer

The cost of a therapy session ranges from $195-$220. You may be eligible for a Medicare rebate, which will significantly reduce your personal cost.

Question 9

Are psychological services covered by my private health fund?

Accepted Answer

Some funds will provide rebates for psychological services; however, it is advisable to check with your specific fund as to whether your ‘extras cover’ includes psychological services and the amount of repayment. If you are eligible, you can choose to use either your private health insurance or Medicare to pay for psychological services you receive. However, you can only use one form of rebate for each session.

Question 10

Do we write reports?

Accepted Answer

Psychological reports are provided for WorkCover, NDIS funding and Victim Services, while letters to a referring GP for Better Access sessions can also be written. Reports to Centrelink are required to be written by a Clinical Psychologist, so unfortunately I can not help with requests for Centrelink letters. Private reports incur a fee of $200 and are not funded by Medicare. We will discuss details with you before proceeding. The fee must be paid in full before receiving the report.

Question 11

Is my information confidential?

Accepted Answer

As a psychologist I adhere to the Psychologists’ Professional Code of Conduct. All personal information gathered during the provision of counselling service will remain confidential and secure, with some professional limits of confidentiality. Limits of confidentiality will be discussed at the beginning of the first session, and you will be asked to sign a consent to receive psychological services form. If you have any questions about the limitations of confidentiality, please ask.

Question 12

Do you offer Zoom consultations?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Zoom or telephone consultations are available. However, I prefer to have had an initial face to face consultation before commencing zoom or phone sessions.

Question 13

What is our cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes there are good reasons for cancelling appointments. However, unlike brief medical appointments, it is impracticable to fill a cancelled psychology appointment that runs for 50 minutes at late notice. I appreciate 24 hours notice of a cancelled appointment.

A fee of $100 will be charged when you fail to cancel, fail to attend the appointment or change your appointment before 2pm on the previous business day.

All cancellations or changes must be made by contacting me +61 408 883 309. Future appointments will be forfeited if the cancellation is not paid.

If you are running late, please call or message to let me know.

Question 14

Is there onsite parking?

Accepted Answer

The therapy room is located in the Coffs Coast Wellbeing Centre. There is free street parking along and out the front of the practice on West High St, Coffs Harbour, NSW, 2450.

Question 15

Do you work with NDIS and other service providers?

Accepted Answer

Freya is a registered provider with Medicare, Victim Services, WorkCover, NDIS, Carers NSW, Employee Assistance programs and Department of Veterans’ Affairs.

Frequently Asked Questions