Question 1

Am I eligible for rebates, and what is the cost of appointments?

Accepted Answer

You may be eligible for a rebate of $149.05 per 50-60 minute appointment for up to 10 clinical psychology appointments per year with a clinical psychologist if you are referred by your GP, Psychiatrist or Paediatrician under a Mental Health Care Plan as part of the Medicare Better Access Scheme (BAS).Session fees are $280 for individual appointments lasting 50-60 minutes, and $300 for couples therapy appointments lasting 50-60 minutes. Rebates cannot be claimed under Medicare for couples therapy appointments, but may be covered by your private health insurer. Check your eligibility with your provider. You may also be eligible to receive rebates under your private health cover. Check your eligibility with your provider. An information sheet about the Medicare rebate scheme has been prepared by the Australian Psychological Association, and can be found at: https://psychology.org.au/for-members/resource-finder/resources/medicare/medicare-faqsPlease check with your doctor and/or health fund to determine your eligibility for rebates.You may also be eligible for rebates under your private health cover. Check your eligibility with your provider. Rebates of $252.99 per 50-60 minute appointment apply for plan-managed National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) members.Veterans and their families who are registered with the Department of Veterans Affairs may be eligible for access to clinical psychology through a valid GP or psychiatrist referral. Veterans holding a DVA WHITE or GOLD card may be entitled to up to 12 government funded sessions per year with no out of pocket cost. Gold Card holders may have more sessions available to them.

Question 2

Do I need a referral?

Accepted Answer

No, you don’t require a referral to attend a psychologist, however if you are referred by a GP, Psychiatrist or Paediatrician, you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate under the Better Access to Mental Health Care scheme.As of July 1, 2026, Medicare rebates are $149.05 for a 50-60 minute appointment with a clinical psychologist if you are referred under a Mental Health Care Plan by your GP, Psychiatrist or Paediatrician. Face to face, telehealth and phone sessions are available, depending upon circumstances.
All sessions last a minimum of 50 minutes.Telehealth and telephone sessions are payable prior to session.Privacy and confidentiality are protected in accordance with the APS Code of EthicsRebates apply for National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and Department of Veteran’s Affairs (DVA) members. View the consultations, fees and rebates page for more information. Please contact Simon directly if you have further queries.

Question 3

What do I need to know about attending my first session?

Accepted Answer

After making an enquiry by phone, via e-mail or an online submission form on this website, Simon will contact you by phone for a brief, initial consultation to discuss your presenting concerns. Simon will determine whether he feels he is best suited to your needs. A suitable time and day for your first appointment will be arranged by phone or e-mail. Simon will then follow up with an email or text confirming the appointment time, and the address and location of the appointment. Information about confidentiality and the APS Charter for Clients, as well as an informed consent document for signing and completion will also be provided. During the first session, Simon will talk with you about your presenting issues and develop a plan that addresses the issues you want to discuss in therapy.

Question 4

Are my sessions private and confidential?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely. Simon operates in accordance with the new Psychology Board of Australia's Code of Conduct:https://www.psychologyboard.gov.au/Standards-and-Guidelines/Professional-practice-standards/Code-of-conduct.aspxhttps://psychology.org.au/getmedia/d873e0db-7490-46de-bb57-c31bb1553025/aps-code-of-ethics.pdfAll personal information gathered by Simon MacLachlan as the psychologist during the provision of the psychological service will remain confidential and secure except where:It is subpoenaed by a court, orFailure to disclose the information would place you or another person at serious and imminent risk; orIf disclosure is otherwise required or authorised by law; orYour prior approval has been obtained to
a. Provide a written report to another professional or agency. eg. a GP or a lawyer; or
b. Discuss the material with another person, eg. a parent or employer;For further information, contact Simon directly.

Question 5

What are the four phases of therapy?

Accepted Answer

Initial Phase: Establish rapport and assess your issues and goals.Middle Phase: Explore your challenges in depth and apply therapeutic interventions.Working Phase: Develop and implement strategies for addressing your goals.Termination Phase: Review progress, consolidate gains, and plan for future support as the counselling relationship ends.

Question 6

Is there a waiting period for psychology appointments?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes there may be a waiting period for appointments, depending on factors such as Simon's current availability, general demand for mental health services at the time of your enquiry, and the specific practice's scheduling policies. The waiting period can vary depending upon circumstances. To get an accurate estimate, it is best to contact Simon directly.

Question 7

How can I make an enquiry?

Accepted Answer

You can contact Simon by making an enquiry through a submission form on this website, or by contacting Simon by phone on: Ph: 0488 076 384Or e-mailing Simon directly at: enquiries@simonmaclachlan.com

Question 8

I am unsure whether therapy will help me. Can I discuss this with Simon?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Simon would be happy to speak to you by phone for a brief consultation to discuss your concerns.

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