Psychologists are specifically trained to understand human behaviour across a range of settings and to support people to cope more effectively. Psychologists use evidence-based treatments to support children and families to improve their mental health and general well-being. Psychologists use a wide variety of proven methods to work towards a client’s individual goals.
Lots of people benefit from seeing a Psychologist. Young people often benefit from speaking to someone outside of the family. Early intervention with children is most effective in stopping little problems from growing. Children might benefit from therapy if they are:
Having difficulties at school with learning, bullying, following teacher’s instructions or having friendship problems.
Having difficulties coping with big emotions, expressing negative opinions about themselves or their abilities.
Having difficulties coping with the stress of everyday life.
Having difficulties coping with transitions, such as changing schools, moving from primary to high school, or changes in the family.
Showing a sudden change in their behaviour, sleeping or eating, or are noticeably more irritable or sad.
At the first session, it is our opportunity to get to know one another. It is also an opportunity to hear your story and start to gain an understanding about what issues you would like us to support you with. During the first session we will ask questions and may take notes in order to formulate a plan for future therapy sessions.
As part of the first session, we will also talk through any questions you have, we will provide you some information about our policies and sign a consent form.
After the first session, you will be given access to our online patient portal which will allow you to manage your appointments and payments online.
This will depend on a number of factors including the client’s age, the issues which need to be addressed and how quickly we are able to develop a strong therapeutic relationship.
Sessions are 50 minutes in length
The frequency of sessions will be discussed and decided during the first session. Most research suggests that more frequent attendance leads to more effective therapy. Most clients will attend weekly or fortnightly depending on several factors.
The Australian Psychologist Society (APS) Code of Ethics, the APS Guidelines, and the Australian Privacy Principles guide decisions about information and how this is disclosed within sessions. Clients can be assured of their right to confidentiality unless information shared during the session indicates that the person is at risk of hurting themselves or others or a subpoena is issued by a court of law.
The Australian Psychological Society recommends an hourly rate of $260 per hour. To enable family’s better access to our services we charge a lessor rate of $170 per therapy session. Eligible clients can receive a Medicare rebate of $87.45. Please contact us for further information or consult with your general practitioner to discuss further.
Alternatively, you may be able to claim a private health insurance rebate. Please contact your health fund to check your eligibility.
At Apple Tree Psychology we offer an automatic payment and rebate service which means that payments are handled quickly and efficiently during each appointment. Once set up you can add and maintain your own payment details though the patient portal. We also offer payment via EFTPOS. We do not accept cash.
Invoices will be provided to NDIS plan managers for payment via bank transfer.
Apple Tree Psychology is not a crisis service. In an emergency, please call 000 or attend your local emergency room for assistance.
Therapy is most effective when sessions are attended consistently, this allows us to work towards your therapy goals and maintain a strong therapeutic relationship. Infrequent appointments can be less effective and can lead to slower progress towards your goals.
If you are unable to attend an appointment, it is essential that you let us know as soon as possible. If you are unable to attend or cancel your appointment less than 48 hours notice, a cancellation fee will be applied. Cancellation fees must be paid prior to your next schedule appointment. If the cancellation fee is not paid or arrangements to pay the cancellation fee has not been arranged, your next appointment may be cancelled.
