Speak with your HHMP doctor initially about obtaining a psychologist referral in relation to any of the following conditions: Anxiety disorders, Phobias; Obsessive-Compulsive disorder; Post-traumatic Stress Disorder; Addictive behaviours; Eating disorders; Grief and Bereavement; Depression and Bi-polar disorders; Sexual disorders; Adjustment disorder; Sleep issues; Attention Deficit Disorder; Psychotic disorders.
All these issues qualify for Medicare rebates if you are formally referred by your GP. They may also attract Health Fund rebates if your membership covers such treatment. If you are unsure whether your issue might be one which attracts Medicare assistance, it is best to see your doctor first.
After you are referred by your doctor, your psychologist will undertake an initial consultation, which may involve some psychometric assessment or other form of initial information-taking to establish background information concerning your symptoms or condition. Following this, your psychologist will recommend an appropriate treatment program and contract with you to consult further or may sometimes refer you elsewhere for more appropriate treatment if this is indicated.
You may also choose to see a psychologist for help with less serious problems affecting relationships or behaviour which simply need a short burst of counseling or coaching assistance. However if your psychologist notes there are issues during initial assessment that might also allow you to claim rebates, the option of following-up with your doctor for a referral may also be recommended as above. |
