Question: What can I expect from my first session?

Answer: During the first session, the Psychologist will explain the process of psychological intervention and what to realistically expect from therapy. You will have an opportunity to ask questions and to identify specific goals that you have for resolving your presenting issues.

Question: Are my personal details and information discussed in sessions going to be kept private?

Answer: Yes. Psychologists are bound by a Code of Ethics. All information disclosed during sessions and information written in case notes, will be kept completely confidential. There are extreme circumstances when there may be limits to confidentiality, namely:

  • if you are deemed to be at risk of hurting yourself
  • if you are at risk of being hurt by someone else
  • if you admit to committing a criminal act that has major social consequences

Also, if you want the Psychologist to speak to a third party, then you must sign an Authority to Release Information form.

Question: What if I cannot afford the full consultation fee?

Answer: psych~Empower can negotiate fees with clients. Please contact Louise Williams to further discuss this prior to booking.

Question: Are you registered under Private Health Insurance?

Answer: Yes. psych~Empower is registered with a number of private health insurance companies. At Paddington Professional Offices clients can claim under their private health cover immediately at the time of the appointment, through our HICAPS facilities.

Question: Can sessions be covered under Medicare/HIC?

Answer: Yes, there is now a new Medicare rebate. On 1st November 2006 a new Medicare rebate was announced by the government and will allow more Australians to access much needed psychological treatments. You can only see a registered Psychologist under this scheme. You must first be assessed by your General Practitioner who will then give you a referral to either a Psychologist of your choice or someone who they know. For a 50 minute or longer session you will get a rebate of $75.00. Your Psychologist will include a MBS Item Number on your invoice, which you take to Medicare to receive your rebate - similar to when you see a General Practitioner who does not bulk bill. There is also a MedicarePlus scheme as well as Brisbane MIND, however these are less utilised and harder to access.

Question: Do you have professional indemnity insurance?

Answer: Yes