Frequently Asked Questions
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The cost of seeing a psychologist varies between practitioners. At our Melbourne practice, session fees generally range from $230–$275 for standard 50-minute consultations.
With a GP referral, you are eligible for a Medicare rebate of $98.95 for a Registered Psychologist or a $145.25 rebate for a Clinical Psychologist.
Out-of-pocket costs also vary depending on if you are claiming with private health insurance, NDIS, TAC, WorkCover or any other funding body.
We recommend contacting us to discuss your options. Our goal is to make therapy accessible—let us help you navigate funding.
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ADHD assessment costs vary depending on the age of the client as the process is different for children and adults.
A breakdown of the assessment process can be found here: www.northpsychmelbourne.com.au/adhd-assessment#adhdprocess
Adult assessments typically are $1,500 and child/adolescent assessments are $2,300.
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With a referral from your GP, you can claim a Medicare rebate for 10 sessions each calendar year. You will need to obtain a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP and bring your referral letter with you to your first session.
We also accept NDIS clients who are either self-managed or plan-managed.
We also accept funding from TAC, WorkSafe, DVA and other government bodies. Funding amounts from these agencies often are less than the cost of your session, so you will need to pay a gap fee.
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You need a referral in order to claim a rebate with Medicare. If you have private health insurance or want to pay out pocket, no referral is necessary.
Government funding bodies sometimes require a referral, such as WorkSafe or DVA. Requirements for these referrals differ, and we can help you navigate the process.
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We understand that life can be unpredictable, but when you schedule a session, you're reserving that dedicated time just for you. It's like reserving a table at a restaurant or buying a plane ticket. Our psychologists set aside that time to support you, and they only get compensated when the session happens.
If something changes and you can't make it, please let us know as soon as possible so we can try to reschedule and open the spot for someone else who might need it.
For cancellations made within 24 hours, a cancellation fee will be charged equivalent to the cost of your session. This applies for all clients, even those who are funded by Medicare or another funding agency.
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It's normal to feel nervous during your first session and NorthPsych provides a welcoming and non-judgmental space designed to help you feel comfortable.
During your initial appointment, your psychologist will ask about your current concerns, personal history, and goals for therapy in order to better understand how they can support you.
The first session often focuses on building a therapeutic relationship rather than diving into intensive therapy right away. You and your psychologist may also discuss what type of therapy is the right fit.
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The number of sessions varies depending on your individual needs, the nature of your concerns and your therapy goals.
Your first appointment will mainly be an assessment and creating rapport between you and your psychologist. Some clients find relief in 5-10 sessions using focused strategies like CBT. Others benefit from longer-term support for complex issues or for ongoing coaching.
The frequency of your visits also depends on your needs and schedule. It is usually best to start out with more frequent visits (weekly or fortnightly) to get momentum going. You’ll review your progress regularly and adjust as needed.
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Yes, you can opt to have your appointments via Telehealth. Telehealth most often means a video call, and in some circumstances you can talk with your psychologist on the phone.
You will be emailed a link prior to your video appointment and the session will open in a web browser. No need for any special software.
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Confidentiality is fundamental to psychological services. This means everything you discuss with your psychologist remains private unless you give permission to share it. Psychologists are bound by legal and ethical regulations to protect your information.
There are limited exceptions where your psychologist may need to share information, such as if there is a serious risk to your safety or the safety of others. If you are claiming a Medicare rebate, your psychologist is also required to write a brief letter to your referring GP about your therapy progress.