faqs
Seeing a psychologist for the first time can be anxiety provoking for some people. We understand that you may already feel anxious and will try our best to help make the process as comfortable as possible. Below are some frequently asked questions and answers that may help to prepare you for what to expect.
Do I need a referral?
You do not require a referral to attend sessions at Stepping Stones. However, if you would like to receive a Medicare rebate, you will need to consult with your GP to assess eligibility for a Mental Health Care Plan or with your pediatrician or psychiatrist to obtain a referral.
How do I arrange payment?
Payment is made in full at the end of your consultation either via cash, eftpos or credit card.
Is my consultation covered by Medicare?
If you have a Mental Health Care Plan, you can submit your paid invoices to Medicare for a rebate for up to 10 consultations per calendar year.
Where can I get a Mental Health Care Plan?
A Mental Health Care Plan can be organised by a General Practitioner (GP) when the GP agrees with the need for an individual to receive psychological treatment by a registered psychologist.
A letter of referral from a paediatrician or a psychiatrist will also enable you to claim rebates for psychological services through Medicare.
How much is a medicare rebate?
The Medicare rebate for eligible MHCP consultations with an educational and developmental psychologist is $86.15 and with a clinical psychologist is $126.50.
Can I claim rebates through my Private Health Insurance?
Your private health insurance may cover some psychological services depending on your level of cover and policy. Please contact your private health insurer for further information.
How do I claim my Medicare or private health rebate?
Upon arranging payment in full, you will be provided with an invoice that you can submit to Medicare or you private health insurance to claim your rebate.
Can I use NDIS funding at Stepping Stones for life Psychology?
If you are self- or plan- manged you should be eligible to access NDIS funding for psychological services, if this is provisioned for in your NDIS Plan. You can contact your LAC to confirm. If you are NDIA managed, you will not be able to use your NDIS funds for psychological services at Stepping Stones for Life Psychology.
I have a sef-managed NDIS plan, how do I arrange payment?
Payment is made in full at the end of your consultation either via cash, eftpos or credit card and you will be provided with an invoice for your records.
I have a plan-managed NDIS plan, how do I arrange payment?
Payment can be made in full at the end of your consultation either via cash, eftpos or credit card and you will be provided with an invoice for you to pass on to your plan manager for reimbursement. If you would like for your plan manager to arrange payment on your behalf to Stepping Stones for Life Psychology, we will need to please be advised of this at the time you book your appointment and arrangements with your plan manager will need to be made in advance and before your first visit.
Do I have to bring anything to my first appointment?
In order for your session to be covered by Medicare, you will need to bring or email through a copy of your Mental Health Care Plan or referral.
What happens at the first appointment?
The goal of the first session is for your psychologist to try to help you feel as comfortable as possible to share what you would like help with.
Your psychologist will try to understand your presenting problem and background, establish goals, and discuss the frequency of future appointments.
Is there parking?
Yes. There is free street parking and clients are also welcome to use our signed parking in the complex.
How long does the consultation last?
Consultations last for 50 minutes.
Can I cancel my appointment?
You may cancel (or re-schedule) your appointment at any time. However, to avoid cancellation or re-schedule fees, we require notification outside of 48 hours notice prior to your appointment.