Frequently Asked Questions
Many new clients at Pinwheel Psychology have questions about our range of counselling services. These are the answers to just some of the regular questions I receive, about how Samantha Symes can help you meet lifes’ challenges.
How long is each session?
The session time is 1 hour but this includes time for rebooking your next session and for payment of the session – (the full Medicare rebate is for 50-60 minutes).
Do I need a referral from my GP?
Only if you want to claim the Medicare rebate from your session fee, Only then do you need a referral from your GP . Please bring a copy of your referral letter or email it prior prior to your first appointment. Please know a referral is not required for therapy.
Can I back date a session if I get my referral later?
The date on your mental health plan is the only date I can rebate from , I cannot backdate a session under Medicare for a rebate, if it does not match your plan start date.
Sessions the same day as your plan, can be rebated.
What are the methods of payment?
Payment is made by card or cash at the beginning of the session, therafter you are welcome to use bank transfer before your session – please make referral to your full name and date of session being paid in your bank transfer.
First time telehealth clients need to transfer payment prior to their first session.
Do you charge late cancellation fees?
Yes, cancellation or rescheduling of appointments require at least 24 hours notice. With less than 24 hours notice the full session fee will be charged, if your session is on a Monday, you will need to advise me by Friday close of business; 5:00pm. You are not able to claim your cancellation fee on Medicare or private health insurance. If a mutually agreeable session is available within the week, I will let you know.
What is the difference between Psychology and Psychotherapy?
Psychology is a style of counselling that examines behaviours and thoughts, both conscious and unconscious for a more rewarding life. Psychotherapy is used to explore thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, and improve self-understanding of actions. It is also an established method for assisting clients to manage mental health symptoms.
At Pinwheel Psychology we use Relational Psychotherapy, a style of treatment that is recognised for supporting clients to obtain lasting, integrated change to patterns of thinking and behaviour, so they can build better interpersonal relationships.
I just need someone to talk to. Can I book an appointment?
Yes! You do not need a referral to see a psychologist.
We all face stressors in our life and rather than keep all those emotions and feelings buried inside to fester or overwhelm us, the healthy option is to discuss them with a trusted professional.
When we internalise the daily stress of our life or get so caught up in the day-to-day we are unable to process life-changing stressful events, it affects both our psychological and physical health.
By talking through thoughts and feelings with a psychologist you can develop healthy strategies for dealing with life’s challenges:
- advance your problem-solving skills
- recognise patterns of unhealthy behaviour
- learn techniques for dealing with stressors
- build greater self-confidence
- learn a greater sense of self.
What is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)?
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, or CBT, is a type of Psychotherapy.
CBT is a holistic therapy that provides clients with practical coping skills by helping clients change those unhelpful or unhealthy thoughts, feelings, and behaviours.
Together we examine patterns of negative thinking and how they might be affecting the client’s quality of life. CBT involves examining how negative thoughts may be preventing the client from reaching their goals or living the life they want.
Then, together, the client and Samantha Symes work on practical strategies to replace those negative thought patterns with more constructive, positive thinking and behaviours.
