How long do appointments usually go for?

Our standard appointments go for about 50 minutes. If we are providing therapy such as EMDR and we are processing trauma, appointments usually go for 90 minutes. 

What are your fees? 

Our fees are outlined on our fees page on this website. If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to ask us. Fees are reviewing annually and are set based on running a viable business to keep providing services to the families and individuals we support.  We receive no funding or support from any other sources. 

Do you bulk bill? 

No, we do not bulk bill.  If you require a bulk billing counselling practice, please discuss this with your GP or referring medical practitioner. 

How does it work when I bring my child or young person to counselling sessions?

Usually when we work with children and young people we have a brief discussion with the parents/carers and child at the beginning and end of the session, work with the child/young person in the middle of the session, and have a quick follow up with parents/carers at the end.  However, this may vary slightly based on what the child feels comfortable with and needs from therapy, and what work we need to do that involves the parent/carers. 

Do I need a referral or can I just book an appointment? 

You do not need a referral to book an appointment.  However, if eligible, most clients do get a GP referral under a Mental Health Care Plan so they can get rebates back for their sessions.   If you wish to get rebates for your sessions, you will need to provide us with this referral paperwork before we can book the first appointment. 

How soon can I get an appointment? Do you have a waiting list? 

Rachelle has no waiting list. She can usually offer new clients an appointment within one to two weeks. If it is a peak time, or around public holidays, appointments timeframes may bit a little bit longer. Please check our home page banner to see the current timeframes for appointments. 

What days do you have appointments?

Rachelle usually has face to face appointments on a Wednesday and Thursday in Taree.  If you are attending via phone or a link via Tele-Health (Video) these appointments are usually on a  Tuesday. 

A Third Party has referred me and is paying for sessions, how do I arrange this?

Please refer to our fees page and scroll down to “Third Party Payment” and it details the steps required by the client and third party to complete the referral and payment authorisation. 

I am attending the appointment via Tele-Health (Video), what set up do I need?

  • A device with a camera and microphone – ideally a laptop so we can access addition web pages if needed –  but other devices such as a tablet or phone with a camera and microphone can also suffice.
  • A reliable and strong internet connection to join a video call 
  • You will need to find a confidential and private space to attend the session where others will not interrupt or hear –  just like like you would when attending a counselling session at our office.
  • Turn off all notifications on devices, put your mobile phone on do not disturb mode.
  • Ensure all devices are charged and have charge cords easily accessible
  • Ideally have noise cancelling earphones or a headset to join the session to ensure your privacy
  • Bring to the session a pen and paper, tissues, a water bottle, and any other resources you may need during the session i.e. handouts we will be talking about, fidget tools to help you focus.  
  • Have your device set up so it’s still and sturdy, in good light, with the view of the camera centered showing the top of your shoulders to the top of your head. 
  • Please see this Tele-Health Guide for more information on how to join the session, and the tools you can use while in a video session with Cliniko