What is a Psychologist?
Psychologists are experts in human behaviour; the way the brain works, memory, human development, personality and emotion. Psychologists can assist people learn skills for managing distressing thoughts, emotions and behaviours more effectively, in addition to providing assessment and treatment for more serious mental health issues. Psychologists may specialise in areas such as clinical, forensic or neuropsychology.


How are Psychologists, Psychiatrists and Counsellors different?
Psychologists study the physical, cognitive, emotional and social aspects of human behaviour. They are trained in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of emotional, behavioural and cognitive problems. To become registered as a psychologist, you must have completed a minimum of 4 years university study in psychology and completed a minimum of 2 years supervised practice. In addition to fulfilling the requirements of a registered psychologist, clinical psychologists must also complete at least 2 years of post-graduate clinical training (Masters/Doctorate level) followed by 1 year supervised clinical training. Psychologists cannot prescribe medication in Australia. Psychiatrists train in general medicine initially then proceed to specialise in psychiatry. They typically prescribe and monitor medications. General counsellors listen to clients' problems and provide support and advice, however, in Australia, they are a non-regulated service provider.


What is the difference between Clinical and Forensic Psychologists?
All Psychologists share a basis in training in human behaviour, however, many go on to specialise. A Clinical Psychologist specialises in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of serious mental health issues including but not limited to: developmental disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, trauma-related conditions and personality disorders. Forensic psychology interfaces with the legal and justice systems and mental health. A Forensic Psychologist may be asked to prepare expert psychological opinion/reports for courts of law and tribunals. They may also consult to legal and justice systems, conduct risk assessments and risk management plans and, provide treatment to offenders with psychological concerns.


Do I need a referral?
Individuals do not need a referral to see a psychologist. Private health insurance rebates may be available if you have extras cover; please check with your insurer. If you are referred by your GP through a Mental Health Plan, or referred by your Paediatrician or Psychiatrist, you will be eligible to claim a Medicare rebate. If you are referred by a third party such as an Insurance company, WorkCover, Solicitor, or rehabilitation programme, referral information must be made available at the time of making the appointment.


What is evidence-based practice?
In psychology, evidence-based practice refers to approaches that have been shown to work in scientific studies. Examples of models of therapy that are supported by research include: Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Schema Therapy (ST), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and, Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).


What about confidentiality?
All information discussed in sessions is kept confidential and treated with privacy and respect. Personal information will only be disclosed to third parties (e.g., family members) with your consent, with the exception of the relevant medical practitioner if referred under the Medicare Benefits Scheme (MBS) [MORE_INFO]. There are times psychologists may be required to disclose information about you if mandated by law (e.g., subpoena), or, if we have reason to believe that you, or someone else, may be at risk of harm. Wherever possible, we would discuss any concerns of this nature with you before disclosing to another party. Psychologists are bound by the legal requirements of the National Privacy Principles from the Privacy Amendment (Private Sector) Act 2000 and follow strict guidelines for professional conduct that include confidentiality. Your client file, which includes your personal information and session notes, is kept in a secure filing cabinet, which is only accessible to authorized employees. You can ask to see the information that is kept in your file at any time.


How do I pay for services?
Australasian Psychology Services accepts both full fee paying clients and individuals receiving part-payment through Government funding/Private health insurance. Medicare rebates for clinical psychology services may be available via a GP referral, Psychiatrist, or Paediatrician. Individuals seeking forensic psychology services may be eligible for a funding grant through Victoria_Legal_Aid. Full payment is required for each session at the time of the appointment. You may then submit the invoice for a rebate from Medicare, or your private health insurer if applicable. You cannot claim a rebate from both Medicare and your Private Health Fund for the same referral.


Am I eligible for Medicare rebates?
There are several ways that you can access Medicare funding for psychological services. The main way relates to the 'Better Access to Mental Health Items' introduced in November 2006 as part of the Medicare_Benefits_Scheme (MBS). These items are for people who are suffering from a diagnosable mental illness (e.g., Depression, Panic Disorder) that is impacting on their everyday lives. You will need to see your GP, who can assess whether you are eligible and if appropriate, they will draft a Mental Health Care Plan before referring you to a psychologist. Alternatively, you can be referred by your Psychiatrist or Paediatrician. The medicare rebate is available for up to 16 (10 + 6) sessions per calendar year. The rebate for a Clinical Psychologist is $122.15 per session. For more information, see the APS Medicare Benefits Fact Sheet and the Changes to Better Access - Client Info Sheet.