Frequently Asked Questions

Is counselling confidential?

All matters discussed with your psychologist will remain absolutely private and confidential unless you give written consent for information to be shared. Limitations to this confidentiality do apply, however, such as if there is an immediate risk of harm to an identifiable person’s safety or if a client’s file is subpoenaed by law.

At Western Plains Psychology, you will be asked to sign a consent form that allows us to contact a nominated person in the case of an emergency; and exchange relevant information with your referring practitioner. In order to receive the Medicare rebate, we are required to write at least one report to your GP about your treatment progress.

How long are the appointments? 

45-50 minutes and are held on the hour.

What is your cancellation policy?

A minimum of 24 hours’ notice needs to be given to cancel or reschedule an appointment, otherwise a cancellation fee is charged. This fee is 100% of the appointment fee.

What are your fees? 

The cost of sessions depends on several factors, such as whether you are able to access rebates.

Please contact us to find out what a session will cost you.

Do you bulk bill?

We are not a bulk billing practice, and all sessions will incur a fee.

How many sessions are needed?

Everyone’s treatment is different. How many appointments you might need will depend on many factors. You may have complicated issues or a relatively straightforward problem that you want to address. Occasionally a single session will be sufficient to provide appropriate and useful information.  Most people require between three to ten sessions, while others require longer-term support. Practically, you might also be limited by finances as only a certain number of sessions can be rebated by Medicare or private health insurers.

The number of sessions required will be discussed between you and your psychologist after the first appointment. The focus will be on balancing financial constraints while ensuring enough time is allowed for you to effectively resolve your issues and work towards what you hope to accomplish.

What is ABA therapy?

The goal is to increase helpful behaviour and decrease behaviours that are harmful or affect learning. ABA therapy programs can help increase language and communication skills, improve attention, focus social skills, memory, and academics, and decrease problem behaviours. Due to the capacities at the clinic, we are only able to see clients for ABA who are verbal and are able to engage in sessions. 

What is the difference between a counsellor and a psychologist?

Both can work with clients experiencing a wide range of emotional and psychological difficulties and work towards improving your mental wellbeing.

Counsellors aren’t trained in the more complex, in-depth presentations and mental illnesses, but are able to assist with general stressors. 

Psychologists can do assessments and testing whereas counsellors can’t. 

If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you.

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