FAQ

Tell your child about the appointment before you attend and explain the reason for the visit, using word’s your child can understand.

• For very young children, tell them before you arrive (perhaps the night before) and let them know what is going to happen. You may also wish to tell them the name of the psychologist. Older children and young people often prefer more notice. Inform adolescents at the time that you are making the appointment and encourage them to talk about their thoughts and feelings towards it.
• Answer any questions honestly in words your child can understand.
• Let your child know you will be there throughout the entire appointment or, for young people, for part of the appointment and that you will otherwise remain in the waiting room. .
• Reassure you child that they do not have to say or do anything that they do not want to say or do.
• Reassure your child that lots of children/adolescents have the same problems, and that lots of children/adolescents see psychologists.

Bringing an object may help to increase your child’s sense of safety and security.  For babies, this may include a comfort toy or blanket. For preschoolers, this may include a favourite toy or book. If your child is likely to be hungry, bringing a snack and/or drink may be helpful.

Let them know that no one else needs to know they are seeing a psychologist unless they choose to let them know.

You do not need a referral to see a psychologist. You may be eligible to claim a private health insurance rebate for psychology services. Please consult your private health provider to ascertain whether you are eligible. If you do have an eligible referral from a paediatrician, psychiatrist or GP, you can claim a Medicare rebate.

Fees are determined by your psychologist. Please contact reception for further information. 

Medicare Rebates

Most psychological services are eligible for a Medicare rebate between $98.97 and $145.25 per session under the Better Access to Mental Health Care Scheme. This rebate applies to services that have been referred for by your GP, psychiatrist or paediatrician, whereby they have assessed that there is a significant mental health difficulty and where there is a Mental Health Care Plan in place.

When referred under the Better Access to Mental Health Care scheme, Medicare eligible services are limited to 10 individual sessions per client, per calendar year, with a review by the referring practitioner required after the initial 6 sessions. A GP review letter must be provided to your psychologist on, or before, your 7th session to continue to receive Medicare eligible receipts.

Medicare rebates can be claimed on the spot at either MCPC Consulting Suites’ reception. 

Private Health Insurance

Most private health insurers offer a rebate for psychological services. Contact your insurer for further information. You can instantly claim your private health fund rebates at MCPC Consulting Suites via our HICAPS electronic claims system. You do not need to pay the full fee; you only need to pay the ‘gap’ between the rebate and the full fee.

NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme)

We accept self-managed and plan-managed NDIS participants.

• Late cancellations or missed appointments may incur a fee of 50% of the consultation fee.
• This fee will be determined by your psychologist. 
• It is appreciated if you can provide 48 business hours notice should you be unable to attend your appointment. 

Yes. We offer telehealth (online video) sessions for children, teens, parents, and families. These sessions are delivered using secure, user-friendly video platforms and can be just as effective as in-person therapy. Telehealth can be particularly helpful for families who live further away, have busy schedules, or prefer to access support from home.