FAQ's
Do I need a referral?
It depends on how you are paying. If you want to claim the Medicare rebate, yes — you will need a referral from your GP and a Mental Health Care Plan. If you are paying privately, no referral is needed. NDIS and DVA clients will need to confirm their funding arrangements before booking — contact me to discuss.
How do I get a Mental Health Care Plan?
Book an appointment with your GP and let them know you want to see a psychologist. Ask for a longer appointment (20 to 30 minutes) and let the receptionist know it is for a Mental Health Care Plan when you call. Your GP will assess your situation and, if appropriate, prepare the plan and write a referral. Once you have it, book your first session with me online, by phone, or by email.
How much does it cost?
Sessions are $220 for 50 minutes. With a Medicare Mental Health Care Plan, the rebate is $101.55, so your out-of-pocket cost is approximately $118.45. DVA-referred clients pay nothing. For full detail on fees and all funding options, see the Fees and Rebates page.
How long are sessions?
Sessions are 50 minutes.
How many sessions will I need?
There is no fixed answer, and I will not pretend there is. It depends on what you are working with, how long it has been going on, and what you want from therapy. Some people do 6 to 10 sessions on a specific concern. Others work with me over a longer period. We review progress together regularly and I will always be honest with you about what I think is realistic.
Under Medicare's Better Access initiative, you can claim up to 10 individual sessions per calendar year.
Do you offer telehealth?
Yes. I offer telehealth sessions via secure video link for clients who prefer it or are based elsewhere in Western Australia. Telehealth sessions are rebatable under Medicare and DVA and work the same way as in-person sessions.
Is what I say confidential?
Yes, with legal exceptions. What you share in sessions is private. I am required by law to break confidentiality in specific circumstances — primarily where there is a risk of serious harm to you or someone else, or where ordered by a court. I explain this fully in the first session.
What happens in the first session?
We talk. I will ask about what has brought you here, what has been going on, and what you are hoping for. You will have space to ask questions too. The first session is about getting to know each other and seeing whether working together feels like a good fit. See the What to Expect page for more detail.
Do you do psychological assessments or reports?
No. This practice focuses on individual and couples therapy. I do not offer formal psychological assessments, cognitive testing, or medico-legal reports.
What if I am in crisis right now?
I am not a crisis service and sessions are pre-booked. If you need immediate support, please contact one of the following:
Lifeline: 13 11 14 (24 hours, 7 days) Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 (24 hours, 7 days)
Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467 (24 hours, 7 days) Emergency services: 000
If you are safe but struggling, you are welcome to email or call to discuss booking an appointment as soon as possible.
I have never done therapy before — is that okay?
Completely. Many people I work with are doing this for the first time. There is no right way to arrive, no wrong things to say, and no expectation that you will have it all figured out before you come.
How do I book?
You can book online or call 0468 310 853 or email admin@ftpc.com.au.