Question 1

Do I need a referral?

Accepted Answer

A medical referral to a psychologist is not always necessary. You are welcome to self refer if you wish to see a psychologist. If you do not have a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP, Psychiatrist or Paediatrician you will be required to pay the full fee of the appointment.

Question 2

Does Medicare cover Psychological Services?

Accepted Answer

Yes, If you wish to access a Medicare rebate you will require a referral. You can obtain a referral by visiting your GP or psychiatrist/pediatrician and discussing your mental health concerns with them. They may provide you with a Mental Health Treatment Plan, Eating Disorder Treatment and Management Plan or Enhanced Primary Care Plan, which can be used to access partly funded psychological therapy under Medicare.

A Mental Health Treatment Plan allows you to access 6 sessions of psychological therapy with a Medicare rebate. After the 6th session you will return to see your doctor to discuss your progress, they can then choose to refer for an additional 4 sessions of psychological therapy.

More information about Medicare rebates can be found here: http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/mental-ba-fact-pat

Question 3

Do Private Health Funds cover Psychological Services?

Accepted Answer

Some private health insurers cover some of the cost of psychological services. Your insurer can provide you with personalised advice based on your package.

Question 4

How do I make my first appointment?

Accepted Answer

Contact us on (07) 3856 0004 or admin@truenorthpsychology.com.au to book your first appointment with one of our psychologists. You can call at any time, including after hours, when you can leave a message and your call will be returned on the next business day.

Our friendly administration team will ask some basic questions that will help to determine which Psychologist will suit your needs best. This is a great time to mention if you have a preference for a particular therapy style, psychologist gender, or day/time preferences for ongoing appointments. If you have any specific requirements please do not hesitate to ask.

Question 5

How do I prepare for my first appointment?

Accepted Answer

Check your email for your appointment confirmation. This email will include an electronic copy our confidentiality and intake form. Please complete this form online prior to your first appointment. If you prefer to complete a hard copy in person, please ask our administration team for assistancee prior to your first appointment. Check out our location to determine your travel/parking arrangements. Aim to arrive approximatly 10 minutes ahead of time, as there may be additional paperwork for you to complete on the day. Bring a copy of your referral and Mental Health Care Plan if your referer has provided you with one.

Question 6

What happens at my first appointment?

Accepted Answer

Please arrive 10 minutes early for your first appointment. You may be asked to complete some additional paperwork prior to your appointment which help our Psychologists determine the nature of your difficulties and track your progress over time.
You will see the psychologist for 50 minutes. During this time they will collect information about your current difficulties and personal history. This information will be used to discuss your goals for treatment, suitable treatment approaches and frequency of future appointments.

Question 7

What happens after my first appointment?

Accepted Answer

Our Administration staff will process the full payment for your appointment and book future appointments. True North Psychology is a cashless business and accepts debit/credit cards. Please bring your Medicare card or Private health care card to the appointment if you would like our staff to process any eligible rebates on the spot.

Question 8

What are the session fees?

Accepted Answer

Session fees vary for each psychologist, with after hours appointments being typically higher. For specific fee information visit our fees and rebates page

Question 9

Who do I contact if I have further questions?

Accepted Answer

If you have any questions about starting Psychological therapy please do not hesitate to contact True North Psychology via phone, email or our enquiry form for further information.

Frequently asked questions