Bookings & Appointments
Everything you need to know about your first appointment, fees, and funding options.
What to Expect
For children, the first session is typically a parent-only session, unless otherwise discussed. We strongly encourage both parents or primary caregivers to attend where possible. This allows for a thorough child and family history to be taken and an open discussion about your concerns.
For adolescents and adults, the initial session is with the client directly. This is an opportunity to discuss your concerns, explore what you'd like to work on, and begin building a comfortable therapeutic relationship.
Initial sessions focus on gaining a shared understanding of presenting concerns, establishing a safe and comfortable space for therapy, and developing a treatment plan. For children, the assessment phase may also involve observations in their education or childcare setting and liaison with teachers and relevant professionals.
Therapy with children usually involves parents and family members, and may consist of parent-only sessions, sessions with your child, or sessions all together depending on therapy goals.
Recommended length and frequency of sessions varies depending on the severity of the presenting concern and multiple other factors. We will consult openly with you following the initial intake and at regular intervals to establish and review the schedule of appointments and progress.
What to Bring
Completed intake and consent form
When your initial appointment is made, an email will be sent with an intake and consent form for you to complete prior to your first appointment.
Your referral
If you have a referral from your General Practitioner, Paediatrician, or Psychiatrist, please ensure you bring a copy or that it has been sent through before your appointment. You do not need a referral to see a psychologist if you do not wish to claim a Medicare rebate.
Prior reports and documents
Please bring any prior assessment or medical reports, letters, or documents that may assist in gaining an understanding of your background and history.
Not sure what to expect or how to prepare?
If you’re bringing your child, your psychologist can give you helpful ideas at your initial parent-only appointment on how to explain the session to them. For all clients, there’s no need to prepare anything specific — just come as you are.
Fees
Inside Out Psychology is a private clinic and fees are payable upfront for our services.
Session Fee
50 minutes
$250
Payment
We accept cash, card, and electronic funds transfer (EFT). Payment is due at the time of your session.
Cancellation Policy
If you are unable to attend, please cancel at your earliest opportunity via phone or email so that the appointment can be made available to others. If you provide less than 24 hours' notice, the full fee of the appointment will be incurred. The full fee will also be payable for non-attendance without notice.
Funding Options
There are multiple funding options available that can assist or fully cover the cost of your psychology care. If you would like any further information or advice, please contact us and we will do our best to assist you.
Medicare
We are registered providers with Medicare. If you have a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP, you may be eligible for a rebate of approximately $145.25 per session. Up to 10 Medicare-rebated sessions are available per calendar year. Rebate amounts are set by the Australian Government and may change.
Visit your GP or Specialist
Book an appointment with your GP or specialist to discuss your mental health concerns.
Receive a Mental Health Care Plan
They will prepare a Mental Health Care Plan and provide a referral to a Clinical Psychologist.
Book with Inside Out Psychology
Contact us with your referral to schedule your first appointment.
Claim your Medicare rebate
After each session, you can claim a Medicare rebate to reduce your out-of-pocket cost.
National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)
The NDIS provides funding to support people with disability, their families, and carers. We also see NDIS-funded clients. Below is an overview of how to access NDIS-funded psychology support.
Check your eligibility
You may be eligible if you are under 65, an Australian resident, and have a permanent and significant disability. Children under 9 may qualify under the early childhood approach.
Submit an Access Request
Contact the NDIA on 1800 800 110 or visit your local area coordinator or early childhood partner. They can help you complete an Access Request Form. Your GP or specialist can provide supporting evidence.
Attend your planning meeting
Work with your NDIA planner, local area coordinator, or early childhood partner to develop an individualised support plan.
Access funded services
Use your plan to fund psychology sessions. Contact us to discuss how we can support your goals.
Need help preparing for your NDIA planning meeting?
We can assist by developing a written summary of key challenges and support recommendations prior to your planning meeting. This can help you feel confident to clearly communicate your needs and goals, and to access services and supports that are reasonable and necessary.
Private Health Insurance
Many private health insurance policies that include extras provide rebates on psychology sessions. Please check with your private health provider whether you and your family are eligible.
Questions about bookings?
We're happy to answer any questions about appointments, fees, or how to get started. Reach out anytime.