Evidence-based interventions, flexibly delivered.
Persistent pain and disability
Health literacy is strongly related to health outcomes and is vital to learning to manage pain. Interventions focus on strengthening understanding of the neurobiological processes that underpin the experience of persistent pain . With this foundation in place a person can progress to working with pain confidently and constructively. The focus is on applying proven strategies to boost capacity, to gradually resume a more active lifestyle and to invest in the relationships that matter most, despite the presence of pain.
Adjusting to Change
It is healthy to want control over our lives; however sudden, unexpected changes are a normal part of life. Bereavement, serious illness, job loss or the end of a close relationship can be stressful; we may feel unprepared.
We offer counselling to help you to come to terms with change and to reflect on the personal meaning of the event. The event may have prompted you to strengthen your support network; re-consider your values; or question your achievable goals. Sessions support and resource you as you re-set your direction.
Anxiety and Low Mood
Interventions are drawn from Cognitive Behaviour Therapy; Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and the field of Positive Psychology. Therapies support acceptance of what cannot change; while also strengthening beneficial thinking styles that assist in the management of symptoms. You may benefit from learning strategies to manage panic or excessive worry, wind down, sleep, exercise or socialise more confidently. We collaborate with you to launch an achievable plan to boost mood and build confidence.
Relationship Issues
Our focus is on working with individuals who recognise a need to bolster their relationship skills. Sessions may focus on building capacity to initiate, maintain, repair or end inter-personal relationships. Sessions may also address issues such as overcoming isolation and loneliness; developing more effective communication skills; understanding the process of forgiveness and how to offer an apology; learning to manage unpleasant emotions; coping with other’s hot emotions; learning assertiveness techniques; boosting positivity in relationships or setting inter-personal boundaries.
Traumatic Life Events
Whether the event occurred recently or long ago; adverse incidents and traumas can have a big impact on a person’ s life. Critical incidents, bullying in the workplace or childhood events which you may never have disclosed to anyone can take their toll. For many people initial sessions may focus on exploring the impact of events, emotional stabilisation and building up coping resources. For some, resolution appears to occur naturally, when offered appropriate support. For others, the pathway to recovery may not be so straight forward. Specialised trauma-focused treatments such as: EMDR, Prolonged Exposure Therapy and Schema Therapy are available.
Finding a way forward
Many people realise that they are dealing with multiple problems; at such times it may be hard to know where to begin. Nevertheless the need to change is often both daunting and urgent.
Through a thorough assessment and open collaboration regarding the values and goals you want to embrace; we are able to work with you to refine both your strategy and skills for moving forward.
Referral
Self Referral
You can refer yourself as a private patient.
If you have a health insurance policy which covers psychological services you may be eligible for a rebate on the session fee. You can claim your rebate directly from your health fund, using the receipt provided.
WorkCover or CTP Referral
If you are referred under an approved WorkCover or CTP claim, your doctor will need to note that psychology is part of your treatment plan when writing your Certificate of Capacity. Please provide a copy of the Certificate when booking your first appointment. We will ask for your insurer details and inform the insurer of our intention to provide services prior to the initial psychology consultation.
No fee is charged, the insurer is billed directly
Medicare referral
Talk with your GP; there may be an opportunity to be referred for psychology services under the Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP). Your doctor will also write a referral letter. Please bring both documents to your initial appointment. If you are referred under the MHCP you will be eligible for a rebate from Medicare.
Victims of Crime
If you have been approved for counselling by the Victims Counselling Service; you will have received a letter of approval. Please provide a copy of this letter at the time of booking your first consultation.
No fee is charged: Victims Services is billed directly