Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to Mind Health’s FAQ page. Below are answers to the questions clients ask us most often. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, get in touch — we reply within one business day.
Getting started
Do I need a referral to see a psychologist?
No. You can book directly with any of our psychologists at any time. A GP referral and Mental Health Care Plan are only needed if you want to access Medicare rebates. Without a referral, you pay the full session fee and don’t get the rebate back; with one, you receive up to 10 rebated sessions per calendar year.
What happens in the first session?
Your psychologist listens first. They’ll ask about what’s brought you in, what you’ve already tried, and what life would look like if things were different. We build a plan from there. Most people leave the first session with a clearer sense of what to work on and how.
What if I don’t click with my psychologist?
Just tell us — there’s no awkwardness. We’ll match you with a different clinician at no cost. Fit matters more than credentials. Around 90% of clients are matched within 24 hours.
How long does therapy take?
Most people see meaningful change in 6–12 sessions. Some shorter, some longer. We review progress every 4–6 weeks together — therapy ends when it’s working, not on a fixed schedule.
Fees, rebates and funding
What do sessions cost?
See our fees page for current rates. Initial sessions are typically 50–60 minutes. We accept Medicare, NDIS, DVA, iCare/SIRA, WorkCover, Comcare, CTP, APS and AAPi.
How do Medicare rebates work?
Bring a GP-issued Mental Health Care Plan. We claim the rebate on the spot — you pay the gap. You’re eligible for up to 10 rebated sessions per calendar year (6 initial + 4 additional after a GP review).
Can I use my private health fund?
Yes, if your fund includes psychology in your extras cover. We provide a receipt for you to submit to your fund. Rebate amounts vary by fund and policy.
Telehealth and access
Can I see a psychologist by video?
Yes. Most of our clinicians offer telehealth Australia-wide via secure video. The Medicare rebate applies to telehealth sessions the same as in-person.
Where is your practice?
Suite 1, Level 3, 20 Wentworth Street, Parramatta NSW 2150. Free 2-hour street parking nearby, and a 5-minute walk from Parramatta station.
Privacy and records
Is what I say confidential?
Yes. All sessions are confidential and protected by Australian Privacy Principles. There are narrow legal exceptions — risk of serious harm to yourself or others, subpoena, or mandatory reporting in cases involving children — which your psychologist will explain in the first session.
Can I get a copy of my records?
Yes, on request. We follow the AHPRA guidelines on access to health records. See our Privacy Policy for the full process.
Cancellations
What’s your cancellation policy?
We ask for at least 24 hours’ notice. Cancellations within 24 hours, or no-shows, are charged the full session fee, which Medicare and most private health funds don’t rebate.
Still have a question?
Contact us — we reply within one business day. For urgent mental health support, please see Urgent help.