FAQs
Questions people usually ask first.
If what you are wondering about is not covered here, please get in touch and ask.
Do I need a referral?
No referral is required to begin. However, if you have a Mental Health Care Plan from a GP, you may be able to claim some of the cost through Medicare.
What happens in the first session?
Your therapist will listen attentively to whatever you would like to share. It can be helpful to start with “What brings you to therapy now?”
How long are sessions?
Sessions are 50 minutes long. Sometimes your therapist will discuss a different model with you: perhaps more frequent but shorter sessions of around 30 minutes two to three times a week, or occasionally a longer 90 minute session to work through more content.
What can I claim through Medicare?
With a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP, you are eligible to claim up to 10 individual sessions per calendar year. Medicare currently provides a rebate of approximately $97 per visit.
No rebate is available for couples counselling, however you may claim up to 10 sessions of eligible group therapy.
Do you need my previous records?
We cannot obtain your previous records without your consent. It is often best to start afresh from where you are today and what brought you to seek therapy now, rather than reading what earlier sessions were about.
If you have a GP referral, they will often note your presenting situation or symptoms, but this is not necessary to begin. Your therapist will assess where you are now and work collaboratively with you to identify your goals.
Do you offer assessments?
Yes, though places are limited as assessments are time consuming. You will be asked to schedule a series of appointments at the time of booking, so all data and diagnostic criteria can be assessed and recorded properly.
Assessments can be provided for ADHD, personality, school readiness, and cognitive and academic ability. Cognitive assessments measure intellectual capacity without reading or writing. Academic assessments identify strengths and weaknesses across areas such as reading, writing and maths.
Assessment and diagnostic formulation sessions are not covered by Medicare and are charged separately. Please contact us for information on structure, process and fees.
Which private health funds offer a rebate?
Most funds may offer a rebate depending on your level of cover, including ahm, Bupa, Medibank Private, and ARHG funds such as St Luke’s Health, Phoenix Health, CUA, Police Health and Emergency Services Health.
Please note HBF is still negotiating with the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia. Check with us when making an appointment about current arrangements.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you need to cancel or reschedule, 24 hours notice is required. Cancellations with less than 24 hours notice will incur the full fee, as that time has been reserved for you.