FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is 'psychology'?

A science and profession

....devoted to understanding how people think, feel, behave and learn.
Psychologists study people and groups to better understand how they work, ways to help them thrive and improve quality of life.

As a science, it is the study of our mind’s functions and influences, building our understanding of human emotion, personality, intelligence, memory, perception, cognition, attention, motivation, and the biological processes behind these.

As a profession, our goal is to put the science into practice; help people, communities, and society solve day-to-day problems while improving mental health and wellbeing, learning, performance and relationships.

What is a ‘Psychologist’? What do they do?

Qualified mental health experts

...trained in the science of how people think, feel, behave and learn.

They can assess, diagnose and treat complex mental, behavioural and emotional issues using psychological testing, therapies and techniques, information and practical advice.

In Australia, psychology is a regulated profession.

Psychologists must be registered with the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA) and Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
You can check on the AHPRA website whether a person is a registered Psychologist.

Psychologists must have at least six years university training and supervised experience, and continue education to keep skills and knowledge up to date.

They must follow strict standards to keep registered, and provide professional services via the APS (Australian Psychological Society) code of ethics.

What's the difference between a ‘Psychologist’, ‘Clinical Psychologist' and a 'Psychiatrist'?

What is the better choice?

Both Psychologists and Clinical Psychologists complete undergraduate degrees and additional training, which include university, supervised experience and other forms of training.
A Psychiatrist trains as a doctor and prescribes medication and so tends to work with more serious presentations and can admit people to hospital.

Whichever type of Psychologist, expect the same quality, ethical behaviour and standards of practice, regulated by Australian authorities.

Do I need a referral?

From a GP or other professional?

No, you can make an appointment anytime without referral and just pay privately.
But, under the Medicare scheme, patients with a mental health care plan prepared by their GP are eligible for rebates.

How will I know if you can help me?

Read a little more, then try our free consultation

Read the "About Sergio" and "Services" pages to see Sergio’s qualifications, specialisations, knowledge, skills and training.

Then call and use your free 15-minute consultation and give a brief description of your needs.
We will let you know how we can help, when we’re available, how we work and discuss fees.

If you are satisfied, we’ll set up your initial assessment session.
If we don’t think we can help, we will help refer you to someone who may suit you better.

About Alma Psychology

How many sessions will I need?

It depends on your needs, goals and desires - and openess to change

Some of us want or need more help and others less.
After the first 2 sessions we can discuss how many sessions may be needed.

How often should you come? To make and see steady progress, typically people attend each week.

When are sessions available?

Our operating ours are flexible

We have morning and afternoon appointments on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays

Need sessions after normal working hours? The After Hours Clinic operates from 5 pm - an additional fee applies

Alma Psychology uses an online booking system via Halaxy. Alternatively contact us via email or phone to discuss.
Book now via Halaxy

How much does it cost?

Competitive fees

If you compare our fees with others, you will find Alma Psychology is great value.

Fees will vary, depending on the type of service you want, the setting, length of session or after hours sessions.

Click "Fees" for more information.

Fees

Should I use Medicare or my Private Health Insurance?

Either

To get a Medicare rebate, book a long consultation with your GP, and ask for a Mental Health Care Plan assessment.

Then call Alma Psychology on 0490 860 889 to book a session and bring your Plan into the first session.

If you want to use your private health insurance, remember you can't access a rebate from Medicare as well as your insurer.
Check your policy for your coverage.

Are concessions available?

Yes!

For Full Time Students, Pension and Health Care Card Holders.

If money is tight, we can suggest some organisations that offer low-cost counselling.

Want to get started?

Want more information about what to expect and how to prepare?
Click the box below

Before your First session