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FAQs

Do you conduct sessions by telephone or other Telehealth online services, such as Skype or Zoom?

Yes. We are experienced in providing effective, confidential Telehealth counselling and you will receive the same high quality of care and support as you would if you were seeing us in our practise rooms. We look forward to helping you feel comfortable using Telehealth to enable you to focus upon receiving the support, care and strategies you need.

What can I expect in my first session?

The first session involves some general housekeeping discussion such as, when is our next session, payment details and how to get in touch with us if required out of session time. We will also discuss general information about the practice and the quality, confidentiality and privacy standards that relate to your sessions. This is also a good time for any questions you may have in regards to our practice or your sessions.

We will also ask some background information, with the aim of understanding a bit more about you. Things like your employment, passions, friends, family, support network and relationships will be some topics that may be covered.

We will also discuss why and what you hope to achieve working together. This will assist us to understand your expectations and goals, and allow us to create a framework to best support you – of course this can change over time.

The most important thing is that you feel open and comfortable with your choice.

Is my information kept confidential?

Anything discussed in the sessions is completely confidential between yourself and our team. Your private information is not shared with anyone else. The only instance when personal information may need to be divulged is if there is potential risk of harm to yourself or someone else.

On rare occasions the information may be subpoenaed, however we can discuss this if you feel it may be a possibility.

Do I need a referral to see a psychologist?

You can book an appointment directly as a private paying client. However your Doctor can also refer you under a Mental Health Care Plan (see below).

Can I claim a Medicare or Private Health Fund rebate for the payment of my session?

If you would like to claim a Medicare rebate for your sessions, you will need to discuss your eligibility for a Mental Health Care Plan with your GP prior to attending your first session.

If you are eligible, your GP will be able to give you a referral and at the completion of your therapy sessions you will be able claim a portion of your session fee directly back from Medicare. This is processed at the completion of your session and the Medicare refund is replaced directly back into your account on the day of your appointment.

Refer to the link to the Australian Psychology Society fact sheet on accessing Medicare rebates: http://www.psychology.org.au/Assets/Files/2013-Medicare-fact-sheet-mental-health-rebates.pdf

If you do not have a Mental Health Care Plan you may be able to claim part of your session payment through your Private Health Fund. Please check with your health fund to determine if you are covered for the provision of psychological services.

How do I go about making an appointment?

The easiest way to make an appointment is to call 0438 058 788 during office hours Monday to Friday. If you call after hours, you can leave a message and we will return your call as soon as possible during the next business day.

How long does a session go for?

Sessions are usually 50 minutes in duration with another 10 minutes spent making a new appointment if necessary and finalising administration including payment.

How many sessions am I likely to need?

The number of sessions required is based upon the needs of each individual, your current level of support and the complexity of the issues being experienced. At your first session, we will discuss with you the anticipated number of sessions that she feels would be most helpful.

How can I make payment for my session?

Cash, EFTPOS, VISA and MasterCard are all accepted methods of payment. Payment is made directly after the conclusion of each session.

What if I need to cancel?

If you are unable to attend your appointment, 48 hours notice is appreciated. This will enable us to offer the appointment to another person on the waiting list and to avoid a cancellation fee.

Where less than 48 hours notice is provided, 50% cancellation fee is invoiced directly to you. Where less than 24 hours notice is provided, 100% cancellation fee is invoiced directly to you. This is in accordance with the Australian Psychological Society recommendations.

Is parking available?

Yes, there is parking available on site.

Where are your rooms located?

Our rooms are conveniently located just a few minutes from the Toowoomba city centre.

Address:
Suite 2, 109 Herries Street
East Toowoomba QLD 4350
M: 0438 058 788
F: 07 3041 0646
E: admin@susanlongpsychology.com.au

What we value when working with you

Kindness

Honesty

Respect

Uniqueness

Safety

Authenticity

Openness

Connection