Your session & fees
It is important to have clear understanding of the treatment plan and fees when accessing psychological care.
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Listed below is information on treatment with Harbour Health Psychology & Clinical Services.
Initial consultation:
$255; 50 minute session
Medicare rebates available.
Out of pocket after rebate - $158.35
During your first initial consultation with a psychologist, you can expect to discuss reasons for seeking therapy, your personal and medical history, and any symptoms concerns you may have. The psychologist may also ask you questions about your lifestyle, relationships, and coping mechanisms. This consultation is an opportunity for you to get to know your psychologist and for them to assess your needs and determine the best course of treatment for you.
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We believe the first session is an important time in ensuring your treatment needs are understood, and a plan is actioned to start working on your psychological wellbeing. The extended consultation provides the space needed to adequately do this, leaving you with a strong plan to implement in improving your mental health.
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Provided:
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75 minute extended session to allow thorough investigation of needs and treatment planning.
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Letter to GP regarding treatment plan (where accessing through Medicare Better access).
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Individualised treatment plan detailing upcoming sessions and goals provided by email.
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Review and discussion on completed psychometrics.
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Whilst we consider the extended session is better suited to starting your treatment, you may not have the available time to complete such session. As a result, a typical 50 minute initial can be offered.
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Provided:
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50 minute session to allow investigation of needs and treatment planning.
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Letter to GP regarding treatment plan (where accessing through Medicare Better access).
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Review and discussion on completed psychometrics.
Ongoing consultations:
$220; 50 minutes
Medicare rebates available.
Out of pocket after rebate - $123.35
In ongoing sessions with a psychologist, clients have the opportunity to discuss their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a safe and confidential environment. The psychologist use various therapeutic techniques to help the client gain insight into their experiences and develop coping strategies for managing their mental health. The frequency and duration of sessions may vary depending on the client's needs and goals.
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Provided:
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50 minute follow up treatment sessions engaging in skills and program as completed from session one.
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Follow up treatment letters to GP regarding treatment plan (where accessing through Medicare Better access).
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Individualised treatment - completing goals and developing skills as outlined in treatment plan.
Funding supports
The cost of your treatment can be reduced through a number of means.
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Our national peak body, the Australian Psychological Society (APS), recommends a fee of $300 for a 50-minute session. We have set our fees well under these recommendations to make them more affordable.
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Medicare:
With a valid Medicare referral; you may access a $96.65 rebate on services (from July 1, 2024).
Valid referrals require:
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Name
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Date of birth
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Address
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List of current symptoms or diagnosis
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Sessions requested (6)
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Indication if you have a GPMHTP, shared care plan or a psychiatrist assessment and management plan.
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WorkCover:
If you are accessing support following a workplace injury, you are eligible for fully funded treatment through your WorkCover claim. A referral for Psychology is required from your Nominated Treating Doctor.
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Rhyle's SIRA number if required by your GP is 20107
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Open Arms:
Fully funded treatment can be provided through Open Arms for current serving members, Veterans and family members. Contact 1800011046 to organise.
Treatment plan:
What is a standard treatment plan?
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The majority of persons accessing care with Harbour health PCS attend for 4-8 sessions of psychological treatment.
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A typical treatment plan will include:
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Session 1:
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Intake & discovery of presenting concerns;
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Targeted discussion about mental health; lifestyle and relationship
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Treatment planning and goal setting
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Early intervention discussion on managing current situation and mental health
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Clear understanding of your current concerns, triggering issues and mental health needs.
Session 2 - 3:
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Early intervention in your mental health;
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Increased awareness over perpetuating and precipitating factors - things that complicate and agitate your mental state
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Introductions to psychological skills that support improvement
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Challenging problematic behaviours and thoughts
Session 4 - 6:
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Increase challenging and processing of mental health concerns.
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Advanced skill development for mental health improvement and goal completion.
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Progress towards goals and potential for ongoing improvements in mental state.
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Further advanced processing and problem solving of mental health needs; resolving and changing perpetuating and precipitating factors that impact your mental health.
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Lifestyle and behavioural changes.
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Relapse prevention planning for your mental wellbeing.
Ongoing sessions:
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Where required ongoing support as provided above.
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Treatment planning and referral discussion where specific, further trained supports may be required (i.e. EMDR).
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Ongoing lifestyle and mental health support as required.