FAQ

What is the Difference between Psychological therapy and coaching?

Whilst psychological counselling and treatment helps people manage psychological issues impacting their life, Coaching, has a present/future orientation, focussing on goals and outcomes, drawing on strengths, and skills to life a more fulfilled life.

Are Sessions Confidential?

Privacy is very important in this service. Information disclosed during sessions is confidential and no information is disclosed to a third party without your consent.

At times a Psychologist may be required by law to disclose information or to disclose if we believe that you or someone else may be a risk to yourself or others. We will however (where possible) discuss these issues with you prior to disclosing this information to legal or government authorities. This is to ensure you understand the reasons for why disclosure is required and the process that will occur. It will also allow an opportunity for you to clarify and questions or concerns.

Do I need a referral?

A referral is not required. However, people often obtain a referral from their General Practitioner (GP) as part of the 'Better Access to Mental Health' scheme.Through this scheme your GP can assess whether you meet the criteria to be referred under a Mental Health Care Plan and if so, this allows you to access a rebate through Medicare for up to 10 sessions per calendar year. Medicare rebates are between $84 - $123 per session.

Horizon Psychology also provides services for a number of Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)

How Do I make an Appointment and how long are they?

You can contact by telephoning the office on (02) 6583 6710 or via the contact page.

Most appointments are 50-60 minutes in duration.

What Do I bring to my first appointment?

If you have received a referral from your GP you will need to bring this with you.

If you are under Worker's Compensation please bring:

Your referral
Insurer details (including claim no. & case manager contact details)
Current Certificate of Capacity.
Any relevant medical or treatment history
Contact details for any other service providers that might be involved such as your Rehabilitation Consultant.

What will it Cost & How do I pay for my Sessions?

A standard consultation is $225 (standard Medicare rebate is $93.35). A reduced fee of $197 (standard Medicare rebate is $93.35) may be discussed for people on a Health Care Card or Pension, or if you are an independent tertiary student. Please discuss this prior to your first appointment.

EFTPOS facilities are available.

Medicare Rebates (where applicable) can be reimbursed on the premises at the time of your appointment. Please ensure you have your Medicare card and a Cheque or Savings account card with you for the rebate to be deposited into.

Many private health funds also provide rebates for psychological treatment. You may be able to claim a proportion of your fees through your private health insurance. Please check with your fund to find out about your eligibility.

If you are attending under EAP, then the fee is covered by your organisation for a set number of sessions.

If you are under Workers Compensation, fee’s are billed to your insurer.