Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I need to see a psychologist?
All sorts of people consult with psychologists over a range of different issues. Most people who see a psychologist are generally successful people who may be troubled by feelings, behaviours, thoughts or concerns that currently prevent them from functioning to their full capacity or from feeling happy and fulfilled in their lives.
Life changes, new events or circumstances, and changes in relationships or work often trigger difficulties that can be troubling. Alternatively, some people may have been struggling with difficult feelings or behaviours over a long period of time, and decide that it is time to get some help. Sometimes people have an inexplicable feeling of sadness or pain that they cannot get through and need help to understand the source of these feelings in order to become unstuck.
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What should I expect when I see a psychologist?
It is understandable if you feel uncomfortable or anxious when talking to a new person about sensitive personal information. My goal is to take a relaxed and supportive approach to assist you to feel comfortable to share your concerns. I have an open and collaborative approach in working with you to address your difficulties.
In a first session, I will talk with you to gain a full picture of your current concerns and circumstances, and any related factors and history. You may be asked to complete one or more questionnaires to assess your situation. I will also explain how I work and establish some guidelines for our sessions together (such as frequency of sessions, fees, confidentiality etc). There will be an opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have. You can expect to be given some feedback about how many sessions may be required and a brief outline of the approach that may be taken.
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Do I need a referral?
A referral is not required for rebates from Private Health Insurance. A GP referral to the psychologist is required for rebates through Medicare and WorkCover Queensland.
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How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions required will vary depending on the issue and your individual needs and circumstances. Most patients require between 6 to 12 sessions. Many patients have issues that have existed for many years and have deeper origins, and sessions may be needed over a longer period of time.
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How often will I need sessions?
When you start seeing a psychologist it is helpful to have sessions close together as you begin to address issues. For this reason I like to schedule weekly sessions while we are actively working together. These sessions may be spread out to fortnightly meetings and become less frequent as positive changes have been experienced and the need for sessions is reduced. This allows time to consolidate changes on your own while also staying connected to your psychologist to review your progress and attend to any further issues that may have arisen.
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What is the difference between a psychologist and counsellor/psychotherapist?
Psychologists have a minimum of six years training and are required to be registered with the Psychologists Registration Board of Queensland. Psychologists practice according to a Code of Ethics outlined by the Australian Psychological Society. This Code of Ethics sets out standards of professional conduct for psychologists, to ensure that patients are receiving a high level of professional care.
In Australia, counsellors and psychotherapists are not regulated by a specific government body. This means that anyone can call themselves a counsellor or psychotherapist whether or not they have undertaken professional training in treating mental health issues. If you are planning to see a counsellor or psychotherapist, it is wise to enquire about their qualifications, the professional organisations to which they belong, and whether they practice according to a code of professional ethics.
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What is the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist?
Psychologists and psychiatrists both work in the area of mental health, and often refer to each other. There are some significant differences between the two professions with each having their own area of expertise and skills.
Psychiatrists are medically trained doctors who have gone on to specialise in the field of psychiatry. Psychiatrists are able to prescribe medications to treat mental illness (such as antidepressant medication for patients who have been diagnosed with depression).
Psychologists have at least six years of training in the field of psychological treatments for mental health issues. Psychologists use treatments (sometimes called "talking therapies") that are focused on improving a person’s mental health without medication. There is considerable evidence indicating that psychological treatments are effective in assisting individuals with mental health issues (such as anxiety and depression). Many people who consult psychologists indicate that they would like to try psychological approaches to address their problem before looking at taking medication. When needed, psychologists also work in collaboration with GP's or psychiatrists to provide the best possible treatment for their patients (such as when a person may need counselling as well as antidepressant medication).
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