FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Innerwest Sydney Psychology utilizes individually tailored and evidence-based approaches and strategies to help clients. Here are some commonly asked questions.
1.
What should I expect during the first session?
The psychologist will take you through the treatment process. The psychologist will also ask you for a brief history and what led you to wanting to see a psychologist.
We will work with you to understand your difficulties and then give practical science based strategies and skills to overcome them.
We will often recommend exercises, or provide reading material for you between sessions to maximize your progress.
2.
Is my information kept confidential?
Your privacy and our ethical conduct are non-negotiable. Psychologists are bound by a professunal code of ethics. All data collected by the psychologist will be securely stored and is not accessible to anyone other than the psychologist or client.
Disclosure will only occur if your records are subpoenaed by a court, failure to disclose would place your, or others at risk, or with your prior written approval.
3.
How long will therapy take?
It is difficult to answer this question as there may be many factors that may be impacting on a person's health. If you have any concerns, please speak to your psychologist at the time of your first appointment.
4.
What therapeutic techniques do you use?
I often begin therapy within a Cognitive Behavioural, [CBT] framework. However, I extensively draw upon other modalities such as Dialectical behaviour therapy [DBT]; Schema Therapy; Brief Solution Focussed Therapy; and Positive Psychology. My goal is to effectively support and collaborate with you, to help empower you to navigate and grow through life's inevitable changes.
5.
How much does therapy cost?
Standard consultation is $150
Registered with Medicare, which allows people with a Mental Health Care Plan from their GP to receive a rebate of $96.65 per session for up to ten sessions a year.
Bulk billing and concessions may be offered to low income, Centrelink beneficiares, students and elderly.
6.
How to take the first step?
To obtain a Medicare rebate, your first port of call is to attain a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP. Then either book via the website or phone 0415 520 926 to make an initial appointment. Note that you have the option to book a 10 - 15 minute discovery call, and we will be happy to book an appointment then if therapy is deemed suitable for your needs.