FAQs
What happens in the first session?
It is very normal to feel some anxiety about attending your first session with a psychologist. It is important to understand that sessions can go at whatever pace feels comfortable for you. The first session is an opportunity to hear about why you are seeking support. It is also focused on exploring the other main areas of your life. This is important in understanding all of the potential factors that may be contributing to your struggles. While the first session is focused mostly on assessment, we will also start exploring what you are hoping to get out of therapy. Due to the amount there is to cover in an assessment it is common for this to be continued into the second session.
What should I expect from a Telehealth session?
A Telehealth session is a consultation via a video-conferencing app or over the phone. These are conducted in much the same way as a regular face-to-face session. In order to have a Telehealth session it is important that you have a private, comfortable space for the session, a reliable internet connection and a camera and microphone connected to your computer. Telehealth sessions at SC Clinical Psychology are conducted via zoom and a link to the session will be included in your reminder email. Most clients find that Telehealth sessions are as effective as face-to-face appointments and some people prefer the convenience of being able to have sessions from home.
How often should you attend therapy?
The answer to this question depends on a range of factors including the presenting problem, the length of time someone has been in therapy for and practical considerations such as availability. Generally speaking I recommend that my clients attend regular (weekly or fortnightly) sessions for the first 6 sessions. At this point we review progress and develop a plan for future sessions.
Do you see clients attending via third party funding?
At present I do not offer treatment to clients who are attending via third parties including workcover and TAC. I am not a registered NDIS provider, however I do see clients who self-manage their NDIS plan and are able to pay privately.