What is a Psychologist?

Psychologists have completed specialist training at university for a minimum of 6 years, to gain full registration, in human behaviour, dealing with a wide range of personal and psychological issues. Psychologists are registered with the Psychology Board of Australia and the APS representing quality and standards of practice and complete ongoing professional development, training and supervision to uphold registration.

Will I need a referral?

You do not need a referral to attend Empowering Pathways Psychology. You can reach out to us directly to schedule a self-referred appointment, however, with a self-referred appointment, you will not receive a medicare rebate.

To claim a medicare rebate, your GP will need to provide a referral letter for a Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP). You or your GP will need to email your MHCP to us before your first session or bring them with you to your first session.

What will happen in the first session?

No need to worry about coming prepared with what to say in the first session. Just come with an open mind and your Psychologist will guide you through the therapeutic process.

Together we will explore what has been happening in your life, leading you towards reaching out to speak with a psychologist and what you would hope to change. We will discuss your current concerns and experiences across your lifespan that may have led to now. This is so we can get to know you and determine which therapeutic approach might be most beneficial for you to head towards your goals.

You have control over what information you choose to share, and the pace at which you share. Our priority is creating an environment in which you feel safe and empowered.

Together, at the end of your first session, we can collaboratively agree on therapeutic goals and a plan for achieving these. Coping skills and strategies will be suggested for you to start implementing change in your everyday life and begin to feel empowered.

How long is each session?

Sessions are between 50 minutes to 90 minutes in duration and will be discussed upon booking.

How much do sessions cost and are there rebates available?

Please check our Fees & Rebates page for information.

How many sessions will I need to attend?

This is dependent on the individual and the complexity of their circumstances. Some people require shorter-term therapy, approximately 6-10 sessions to achieve realistic goals and change in their life. For more complex cases that are deep-rooted, longer-term therapy may be required to get down to the root cause as well as create change in daily functioning. This will be discussed with your Psychologist in the first session. Regular check-ins to track effectiveness will occur in each session.

Sessions typically occur weekly to fortnightly in the beginning, with sessions spanning over time. c

What happens with the collection of my details and confidentiality?

All information discussed in psychology sessions is confidential, except in the following circumstances:

• If there is risk to your safety or the safety of another person

• If our session notes are subpoenaed by a Court

• If you have provided us with consent (written or verbal) to speak to another person or organisation about your circumstances

We will ask you for personal information such as name, address, and phone number as well as consent to speak with your GP, questions related to wellbeing and health and an emergency contact.

If you choose not to provide us with some information, we may not be able to provide a service to you, or the service we are asked to provide may not be appropriate for your needs

Where are you located?

All sessions are conducted online via Telehealth/ Zoom for your ease and convenience. Using a laptop or iPad is best for our sessions, especially if the session involves EMDR. A confirmation email link for the session will be sent to you 72 hours before your session.

Currently, we are not registered with the NDIS, TAC, or Work Cover.

However, we do accept MHCP, private appointments and EAP.