Some Common Questions
Have a question you’d like to ask? We are committed to providing the best care and experience we can. There’s no such thing as a bad question when it comes to mental health. Check out the answers to the FAQs below, and don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any additional questions.
How long does a session take?
A standard session will usually go for around an hour (50+ minutes), depending upon your individual needs and availability.
How many sessions will I need?
This can vary widely and depends on a number of factors, including the specific issue you are seeking assistance for, your needs, availability, and how much time you invest in between sessions practicing skills. Some clients need 1 or 2 sessions, others require a longer period.
How do I make an appointment?
You can make an appointment by clicking on the "make an appointment" button, or by calling the number on the contact details screen.
How much does it cost?
Fees vary depending upon the length and type of appointment. A GP referral and Mental Health Care Plan is required to obtain the Medicare rebate which is usually processed following payment of the session fee, and placed in your bank account overnight. Fees are payable at the time of the appointment, and are in-line with the prevailing APS recommended fee which increases on 1 July every year.
Information about Australian Psychological Society Recommended Schedule of Fees can be found here.
How do I pay?
You can pay via visa and mastercard credit and debit cards, or cash. Medicare claims can be processed at the time of payment so your rebate should be deposited back into your account overnight.
How do I cancel a session?
From time to time things come up that were unexpected. In cases where you need to cancel a session we ask you to provide 24 hours notice. This enables another client to book in to that time slot.
A non-claimable cancellation fee applies if notice is not provided. For same day cancellations, the full cost of the session is payable.
Unfortunately, if you miss more than 2 sessions without notice, then you may need to pay upfront, and we may be unable to book you into prime time slots. This is to ensure we are being fair to all clients.
Who is Jinx?
Jinx is the clinician's dog, and occasional "team member" at Alpine Psychology.
Clinician’s Dog in the Therapy Room
At Alpine Psychology, the clinician’s dog may occasionally be present in the therapy room. She is a calm and well-behaved companion animal who remains under the clinician’s supervision. Some clients enjoy her presence and find it grounding or comforting, while others prefer sessions without her—both preferences are completely valid.
If you have allergies, fears, cultural concerns, sensory sensitivities, or simply prefer not to have a dog present, please let us know at any time. We will ensure your sessions are dog-free.
Policies
Note: APS is the abbreviation for the Australian Psychological Society.
