FAQs
Getting Started
What happens in the first session?
The first session is a clinical intake. We will discuss what has brought you to therapy, your current concerns, relevant history, and what you are hoping to get out of the process. I will explain how therapy works and answer any questions you have. You will not be asked to share anything you are not ready to discuss. By the end of the session, we will have a shared understanding of your goals and a preliminary plan for how to work towards them.
How do I book an appointment?
You can book directly through the online booking system on this website, or call 03 8771 4315. After booking, you will receive confirmation of your appointment along with intake forms and a client services agreement to complete before your first session. These forms help me prepare so that your first appointment is focused and productive.
Do I need a referral to see a psychologist?
You do not need a referral to see a psychologist privately. You can book and attend sessions at any time. However, if you want to access a Medicare rebate, you will need a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP) from your GP. This plan allows you to receive up to 10 Medicare-rebated sessions per calendar year. If you are unsure whether you have a current plan, your GP can check this for you.
What is a Mental Health Treatment Plan?
A Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP) is a document prepared by your GP after a dedicated mental health consultation. During that appointment, your GP will ask about your symptoms, how they are affecting your life, and what kind of support you are seeking. The GP then prepares the plan and provides a referral to a psychologist. With a valid MHTP and referral, you are eligible for a Medicare rebate on up to 10 psychology sessions per calendar year. The rebate for sessions with a registered psychologist is currently $98.95 per session.
Fees, Rebates, and Payment
What are your fees?
Individual therapy sessions (50 minutes) are $250 in person and $225 via Telehealth. These fees are set below the Australian Psychological Society's recommended rate for a standard consultation. If you have a Mental Health Treatment Plan, you will receive a Medicare rebate of $98.95 per session. Private health insurance rebates may also be available depending on your level of extras cover. ADHD assessments start at $1,500, autism assessments at $2,000, and combined assessments at $2,500. Assessment fees include clinical interviews, standardised testing, and a written report.
Can I claim through private health insurance?
Yes, if your private health insurance includes extras cover for psychology. Rebate amounts vary between insurers and between levels of cover, so I recommend contacting your insurer directly to confirm your entitlements. You can claim your rebate through your insurer after each session using the receipt I provide.
What is your cancellation policy?
I require at least 24 hours notice if you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment. Missed appointments or late cancellations are charged at the full session fee. I understand that unexpected circumstances arise, and if something urgent comes up, please get in touch as soon as possible so we can discuss options.
The Therapy Process
How many sessions will I need?
This depends on what you are working through and the goals you set. Some people find meaningful progress in 6 to 8 sessions of focused, structured therapy. Others, particularly those working through complex trauma, long-standing anxiety, or adjustment to a new diagnosis, benefit from longer-term support. We review progress collaboratively throughout therapy, and you are always in control of how long you continue.
What therapeutic approaches do you use?
I draw on a range of evidence-based approaches depending on what will be most effective for your situation. These include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Schema Therapy, and trauma-focused interventions including EMDR and Compassion-Focused Therapy. My work is always trauma-informed and neurodiversity-affirming. I tailor the approach to the person, rather than applying a one-size-fits-all model.
Do you offer Telehealth sessions?
Yes. I offer Telehealth sessions via secure video conferencing and telephone. Telehealth sessions are available Australia-wide on weekdays. Many clients find Telehealth convenient for fitting therapy around work, caregiving responsibilities, or travel. Telehealth sessions are eligible for the same Medicare and private health insurance rebates as in-person appointments.
What is the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist?
Both are qualified mental health professionals, but they differ in training and approach. Psychologists hold postgraduate qualifications in psychology and provide therapy, assessment, and behavioural interventions. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who have specialised in psychiatry and can prescribe medication. In many cases, a psychologist and psychiatrist work together to provide complementary support. I collaborate with psychiatrists and GPs when medication may be a helpful part of your treatment.
Adult Neurodivergence Assessments
What does an adult ADHD or autism assessment involve?
Assessments at Behavioural Edge Psychology follow a thorough, multi-session process. This typically includes a detailed clinical interview covering your developmental history, current functioning, and the specific difficulties you are experiencing. I use validated diagnostic tools, including the DIVA-5 for ADHD and the MIGDAS-2 for autism, alongside standardised self-report measures. Where appropriate and with your consent, I may also gather information from someone who knows you well. You will receive a comprehensive written report with diagnostic findings, a formulation explaining how the results relate to your lived experience, and practical recommendations.
Can I get a Medicare rebate for a neurodivergence assessment?
Parts of the assessment process may attract a Medicare rebate if you have a valid Mental Health Treatment Plan and GP referral. The clinical interview sessions can be billed as psychology consultations under Medicare. However, the full assessment fee covers more than the face-to-face sessions (including test administration, scoring, and report writing), so there will be an out-of-pocket component. Assessment fees can be billed across multiple sessions to spread the cost.
I think I might be autistic or have ADHD. Where do I start?
A good first step is to contact the practice by email or phone to discuss your concerns. I can explain the assessment process in more detail and help you decide whether a formal assessment is the right next step for you. If you would like to proceed, I will ask you to complete some preliminary questionnaires and book your first assessment session. There is no requirement to have a referral to begin the process, though a GP referral is needed if you want to access Medicare rebates for the consultation sessions.
WorkCover, NDIS, and TAC
How do WorkCover psychology sessions work?
If you have an accepted WorkCover (workers' compensation) claim for a psychological injury, your sessions may be fully funded by your insurer. To get started, I need your claim number and your case manager's contact details before your first appointment so I can confirm your eligibility and arrange invoicing directly with the insurer. You do not need to pay out of pocket for approved sessions. I am a registered WorkSafe Victoria provider.
Do you provide services under the NDIS?
Yes. Behavioural Edge Psychology is a registered NDIS provider for therapeutic supports (Registration Group 0128). If you have NDIS funding for psychology or therapeutic supports in your plan, I can provide individual therapy, neurodivergence-related support, and capacity-building services. Please get in touch with your plan details so we can confirm how your funding can be used.
Can I access psychology services through the TAC?
Yes. If you have been involved in a transport accident in Victoria and have an accepted TAC claim, your psychology sessions may be funded by the TAC. I am a registered TAC provider. Please provide your claim number and case manager details when booking so I can arrange direct billing.
Workplace Psychology Services
What is a psychosocial incident report?
A psychosocial incident report is an expert psychological assessment prepared for legal, workers' compensation, or organisational proceedings involving workplace psychological harm. These reports assess the psychological impact of events such as bullying, harassment, discrimination, or sustained work-related stress. The report includes clinical interviews, validated psychological testing, review of relevant workplace documentation, and a comprehensive written opinion. Reports can be prepared for Fair Work proceedings, civil claims, workers' compensation disputes, or internal organisational investigations.
What is a Fitness to Work assessment?
A Fitness to Work (FTW) assessment evaluates whether an individual is psychologically ready and functionally able to perform their role safely and effectively. These assessments are typically requested by employers, insurers, or legal teams following a period of absence due to psychological injury or illness. The assessment includes a clinical interview, standardised psychological measures, and a written report providing a clear opinion on the person's current functional capacity, any workplace adjustments that may be needed, and recommendations for a sustainable return.
Practical Details
Where is Behavioural Edge Psychology located?
I see clients at two locations in Melbourne's inner south-east. The Caulfield South practice is at 223 North Road, Caulfield South 3162, and is open on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays. The St Kilda practice is at 22 Alma Road, St Kilda 3182, and is open on Thursdays and Fridays. Both locations have accessible street and private parking and are well served by public transport. Telehealth appointments are available Australia-wide on weekdays.
Is there parking available?
Yes. Both the Caulfield South and St Kilda locations have ample street parking nearby. The Caulfield South practice also has private parking. Both rooms are accessible by public transport, including tram and bus routes.
Who do you typically work with?
I work with adults across all stages of life. Many of my clients are professionals, parents, carers, and high-functioning individuals who are managing significant stress, anxiety, burnout, or the effects of trauma while continuing to meet the demands of their daily lives. I also work with adults seeking diagnostic clarity around ADHD or autism, individuals navigating workers' compensation or NDIS systems, and professionals in high-responsibility roles including lawyers, healthcare workers, and first responders. My practice is inclusive and affirming of all identities, backgrounds, and experiences.
Is everything I say in therapy confidential?
Yes, with very limited exceptions required by law. Confidentiality is a cornerstone of the therapeutic relationship. What you share in sessions is not disclosed to anyone without your written consent. The exceptions are situations where there is a serious and imminent risk of harm to you or someone else, where I am required by law to report (for example, mandatory reporting of child abuse), or where records are subpoenaed by a court. I explain the limits of confidentiality clearly in your first session and in the client services agreement you receive before your appointment.