Frequently Asked Questions

"How does a person get to see a psychologist?"

They can be referred by another profession (usually a General Medical Practitioner) or just phone and make an appointment.

"Are your fees eligible for rebate?"

Yes, if you have private health insurance (extras). Alternatively, the fees will be met if someone else is paying for your treatment (eg if your employer wants to help you quit smoking,  you are on a Workcover program of rehabilitation, or you have lodged a legal claim for compensation). If your doctor has suggested that you need my services due to a clinical mental health issue, then the doctor may refer you, and provide you with a written "care plan" to give me, in which case a rebate will be able to be claimed from Medicare. If this is the case, you will personally pay the gap as the law does not allow you to claim from both Medicare and Private Health Funds for the same consultation.

"Do I have to have a referral from a doctor to see you?"

No, just call my receptionist and make an appointment.

"What is hypnosis like?"

It’s usually very relaxing. It’s like being absorbed in a good book or movie. It’s not like being under an anaesthetic – not at all.

"How does hypnosis work?"

To understand this one has to have an understanding of consciousness. Hypnosis enables the mind to focus its power and permits suggestions to take root at the level of the unconscious mind.

"Can I learn to do hypnotherapy?"

Probably. First though, in most states of Australia you have to be trained as a Psychologist, a Medical Practitioner or a Dentist.

"How would I get to be a Psychologist?"

First undertake an honours or other four year degree course, majoring or specialising in Psychology. Then do a further two years either in supervised employment as a Psychologist undergoing pre-registration training or within a Masters Degree course. After the six full-time years of study you will be eligible to apply to the Psychological Registration Board of your particular state for Registration as a Psychologist. In 2010 this registration will be the responsibility of a newly formed single National Registration Board which is intended to replace the existing state boards.

"Are there different types of psychologists?"

Yes. The Registration Board of South Australia does not recognise distinctions between different areas of practice. One can only claim to be a Psychologist. However people do specialise on the basis of their training, their work and their preferences, into areas of Counselling, Clinical, Educational, Organisational, Forensic, Community Psychology, Neuropsychology and others.

[Home] [Back to top]