Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs
What does a psychologist do?
Clinical psychologists are trained in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders across the lifespan.
Psychologists use a variety or techniques and therapies to treat mental health disorders and psychological problems.
Why should I see a psychologist?
If you are not feeling like your usual self, experiencing signifiant stress, having trouble sleeping, feeling angry or worried a lot, or perhaps your GP or family member has suggested counselling might be helpful, then seeing a psychologist may be helpful for you.
A psychologist can help you are experiencing relationship difficulties, workplace problems, navigating life changes, or helping you overcome and cope with difficulties or challenges in your life.
Seeing a psychologist doesn’t mean that there is something ‘wrong’, it just means you’re moving in a more helpful direction to solve challenges. Sometimes people like to see a psychologist to “check in”, like you would have a check up with your dentist.
Do I need a referral?
You do not need a referral from your doctor in order to access counselling with Naomi Newton.
If you have a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP, psychiatrist, or paediatrician, you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate.
Fees - How much does it cost?
The current recommended fee by the APS is $315 for 46-60 minutes.
As of 01/07/24 Naomi Newton’s session fees for all clients are:
Initial session (70-90mins) = $395
Subsequent sessions
$260 for a 50 minute session
or
$180 for a 30 minute session.
If you are experiencing considerable financial hardship, your GP may be able to locate other bulk billed services available to you, or you can inquire with your local community health service for low/no cost counselling.
How long is my appointment?
Usually, initial appointments will take 70-90 minutes, and subsequent appointments go for 50 minutes.
For young children, or those with attention or concentration difficulties, shorter 30 minute sessions may be able to be arranged.
Do you offer after hours or weekend appointments?
Unfortunately, Naomi Newton does not offer after hours or weekend appointments.
What are the Medicare rebates?
Current Medicare rebates are as follows (as of 01/07/24):
50+ minute sessions: $141.85
30 minute sessions: $96.65
You will require a valid Mental Health Care Plan from your doctor in order to access any Medicare rebate.
How many Medicare sessions can I have?
Each calendar year, clients are eligible for 10 standard Medicare rebateable sessions.
Your initial Mental Health Care Plan referral entitles you to six (6) sessions. If further sessions are required, your GP can re-refer you for a further four (4) sessions.
As of 1st January 2023, the additional 10 COVID sessions have ceased. There is now a return to the cap of 10 Medicare rebateable sessions per calendar year (via referral from your doctor under MHCP).
Can I use my NDIS funding?
Yes! If you are self managed or plan managed, you are able to to use NDIS funding.
Naomi Newton is not a registered NDIS provider, therefore is unable to see NDIA managed clients.
Do you provide court or parenting reports?
No. Naomi Newton does not provide assessments or reports for court or legal purposes.
Do you see Workcover/Worksafe or TAC clients?
No. Naomi Newton does not accept Workcover or TAC referrals at this stage.
Do you offer Telehealth?
Yes! All clients have the option to undertake counselling via Telehealth rather than in person.
Do you work with people from anywhere in Australia?
Yes! If you are happy to access counselling via Telehealth (video), Naomi Newton is able to work with you!
Are in person sessions COVID safe?
*** Update 01/11/2022 - in person sessions are available with COVIDsafe protocols in place for the protection of clients and staff.
Yes! We have a COVID safe plan in place, and adhere to all protocols as per DHHS mandates. Face masks are no longer required, however it is recommended for clients aged 12 years and over to wear a fitted face mask throughout the time they are at the clinic. Physical distancing is observed, with hand sanitiser available & recommended to use. All surfaces are sanitised between clients.
We ask that if you are feeling unwell, or have a sore throat, temperature, are awaiting RAT/PCR results, or have been a close contact of a confirmed COVID-19 case, that you do not enter the clinic! Your appointment can be rescheduled or conducted via Telehealth.