Psychologists & Counsellors
in Sydney near me

About Pyschology – Your Questions Answered

• How to choose a psychologist

  First, we find out about your main concerns.

  Many people call us asking us how to choose the best Psychologist or Counsellor. When you call we will ask you about the issues that are bringing you to counselling.

  We can tell you about the different Psychologists and Counsellors available and the type of approach they each use in their work. We can also tell you about the therapists' particular areas of expertise. For example, you may be looking for someone with strong experience in trauma, or depression or anxiety or another specific issue.

  •  Psychological therapy can vary from practical short term treatments, to longer term treatment to address longer standing issues. You may have heard of therapies like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy or Psychodynamic therapy.
  •  If you have a preference for working with a particular model of change, we can tell you which of our Psychologists or Counsellors works in your chosen modality. We can also explain the different therapies to you so you can make a better choice.
  •  Finally, if you are still not sure who you wish to see, we can send you a selection of biographies with information on the Clinical Psychologists and Counsellors for you to choose from.
• Do psychologists recommend medication?

  No, psychologists cannot prescribe medication. If you feel you require pharmaceutical support in addition to talk therapy you will need to consult with your GP or a psychiatrist.

• What happens on your first visit to a psychologist?

  Your first appointment will be like an introductory session. It’s an important opportunity for you to explain what has been going on for you. It’s also a chance for you to check out whether you connect with the Psychologist at this first meeting. The psychologist will ask you questions to make sure she has a clear understanding of what is bringing you to counselling and what you are wanting to achieve from your sessions. This will help them determine the best approach for your treatment.

• Are psychologist appointments covered by Medicare?

  Yes, providing you have a current Mental Health Care Plan in place from your GP you can claim a rebate through Medicare. It is important to note that there will still be an out of pocket payment as we do not offer bulk billing within our network. If you need a free service you can contact Lifeline for more information, or contact your local community mental health care team through your local hospital. You can also ask your Doctor for a bulk billing Psychology practice.

• Should I see a Psychiatrist or Psychologist?

  A Psychiatrist is a Medical Doctor with further specialist training who can prescribe medication. A Psychologist can not prescribe medication, but can help you with therapy. If you require or want to consider medication, your Sydney Psychologist or Counsellor will work with your Psychiatrist or GP to provide joint care.

• What is a psychologist?

  A mental health professional who holds expertise in the human mind and our behaviours. Psychologists are trained to understand all aspects of psychological functioning and the theoretical approaches that inform psychological research. In Australia, psychologists must hold board-approved education and be registered with a professional body to practice.
• How to find a good psychologist

  Start by deciding if you want online or in-person counselling. If the latter, you can search by city or region. If the former, you have a much wider pool of choices. To narrow the field and find the right psychologist for you: Use the services of a professional network. Associated Counsellors & Psychologists provides a unique matching service that pairs clients with a suitable mental health professional, for instance. Ask for recommendations from friends. Ensure the psychologists you’re considering are registered with a professional body. Be clear about what you’d like to achieve so the psychologists can assess whether they’re the right person to help. To learn more about finding a good psychologist, or rather, the right one for you, please take a look at our concise guide.
• How much does it cost to see a Psychologist?

  The price of consultations varies depending on the Psychologist or Counsellors qualifications and experience as well as their location.

  Generally it starts from $150 per consult.

  We are not a bulk billing practice. Your GP may be able to recommend someone to you in your area who does not charge a gap.

• I have more questions about counselling

  Feel free to call us and our staff will speak with you to discuss your needs, to answer your questions and to assist you with making an appointment.

  Our team is ready to provide information on:

  • costs of appointments,
  • skills and experience of our various psychologists, psychotherapists, mental health social workers and counsellors near you,
  • Medicare rebates and health fund rebates,
  • doctors referrals and whether you need one,
  • availability of appointments near you.

  Get in touch now and find out how easy it is to get started. Your emotional wellbeing is our concern.

  For all enquiries call (02) 8205 0566.