FAQs
Q: How do I book a session?
A: Please use the query form on the website to send through an appointment request, and we will quickly be in touch to confirm a time.
Q: What should I expect from my first session?
A: Attending therapy for the first time can be a scary and vulnerable experience, but our aim is to provide a safe and welcoming place for you to talk about your concerns. Your first session will include a little bit of paperwork followed by the space to discuss the issues that are bothering you. Your psychologist will ask questions to assist in understanding and developing a tailored plan of therapy to best suit your needs.
Q: How many sessions will I need?
A: Therapy is a very individual experience, and the number of sessions needed by each person is very dependent on their presenting concerns. Your therapist will do a thorough assessment and collaborate with you on a plan that works for you.
Q: Do you have telehealth sessions available?
A: Absolutely. Many people are more comfortable with telehealth sessions, particularly in light of the events of 2020. You are welcome to indicate on your enquiry form that you have a preference for telehealth sessions.
Q: How much do sessions cost?
A: Illumination Psychology understands that accessing therapy can be expensive, and that many people cannot afford the $311/hr fee currently recommended by the APS. We aim to be an accessible service and does offer a sliding scale of fees depending on your financial situation. You are welcome to let us know if your finances would make accessing treatment stressful, as discounts may be available, but please note that waiting lists for discounted sessions may be longer so you will need to let us know upfront.
As of July 31st 2024, our fees for sessions are:
Initial session (85 minutes) – $280
Standard session (55 minutes) – $256
Medicare rebates are available to cover $141.85 per session for 10 sessions per calendar year. As a result, the out-of-pocket cost of a standard session is $114.15.
Q: Are bulk billed sessions available?
A: Bulk billed sessions are available to concession card holders with a Mental Health Care Plan. Please let us know up front if you intend to access bulk-billed sessions, as financial constraints limit how many bulk-billed clients can be seen at a time so there may be a waitlist.
Q: Do I need a referral/Mental Health Care Plan?
A: A MHCP and referral are necessary in order to access Medicare rebates. To get one, book in with your GP for an appointment specifically to create the MHCP. If you do not wish or need to claim rebates, you do not need a referral.
Q: Can I claim on my private health insurance?
A: Depending on your insurer and your level of coverage, you may be able to claim sessions on private health. Please check with your provider, but be aware that you cannot claim the same session on both private health care and Medicare. Most often clients will utilise their allocated number of Medicare rebates sessions first (10 sessions per calendar year) and then claim any remaining on their private health.
Q: What is your cancellation policy?
A: Illumination Psychology has a 48-hour cancellation policy. If you need to cancel an appointment, please do so more than 48 hours ahead of the appointment time. If you cancel an appointment within 48 hours you may incur a cancellation fee. Please see the official cancellation policy for details
Q: What should I do if I have another question?
A: Please use the ‘Contact’ page to submit a query and we will respond as soon as we can.