What to expect at your first session
Psychologists use a range of therapeutic approaches to support different needs, and what is helpful for one person may differ for another, even when experiences appear similar. At Saltwater Psychology, we begin with an intake session to understand what has brought you to therapy and what you would like to achieve. Your psychologist will usually take a thorough history and ask about your current concerns, daily functioning, and broader life context. This process may also include brief assessment measures where appropriate. Based on this information, we will work collaboratively with you to develop evidence-based treatment recommendations, which may involve a combination of therapeutic approaches.
These include:
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Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
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Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
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Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
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Psychoeducation
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Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)
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Motivational Interviewing
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Mindfulness-based approaches
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Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT)
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Mirror Therapy
Treatment is collaborative and individualised. Recommendations are tailored to you, taking into account your physical, psychological, and social wellbeing, and the treatment plan is developed in partnership with you, reflecting your goals and preferences.
Fee's
Medicare
No referral is required to see a psychologist. However, if you wish to claim the Medicare rebate for up to 10 sessions per calendar year, you will need a referral for a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP), which can be provided by a general practitioner, psychiatrist, or paediatrician.
Clients with an MHTP are required to pay the full session fee at or before the time of the appointment. In most cases, the Medicare rebate (currently $98.95 per session for office-based appointments, and $124.30 for sessions conducted outside the consulting room) is processed within 2 business days.
Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA)
There are no out-of-pocket costs for DVA clients. To enquire about suitability or schedule an appointment, please call or enquire online and we will assist you with booking.
NDIS
Saltwater Psychology & Consulting welcomes NDIS clients who are self-managed or plan-managed. There are no out of pocket costs for NDIS clients.
Flexible options include in-clinic, telehealth, and in-home appointments. The Newport clinic offers flat, accessible entry and dedicated client parking.
Services may be funded under the NDIS through Capacity Building – Improved Daily Living.
Fees are in accordance with current NDIS pricing ($232.99 per hour).
Cancellation policy
If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please contact us as early as possible. We kindly ask that you provide as much notice as you can, as this allows the appointment time to be offered to another client and supports the sustainability of the service. Appointments cancelled or rescheduled with less than 48 hours’ notice, or non-attendance at a scheduled session, will incur the full session fee.
You are also able to manage your appointments via our online system. A reminder text message will be sent prior to your appointment to help you keep track.
Private health insurance
Rebates from private health insurers vary depending on your level of cover and policy. We recommend checking with your insurer for specific details.
Please note that you can only claim rebates through Medicare or your private health insurer, not both.
University student rates
A limited number of student slots are available at reduced rates. These are open to all PhD students regardless of discipline, and to students enrolled in any healthcare degree, provided they earn less than $100,000 per year.
SIRA (work cover)
There are no out-of-pocket costs for approved SIRA (WorkCover) appointments. To enquire about suitability or schedule an appointment, please call us or enquire online and we will assist you with booking.
How many sessions will I need?
The length of therapy depends on your individual goals and current circumstances, including symptoms and overall functioning. Some people may only need a few sessions, while others may benefit from ongoing therapy. You can discuss your preferences and your psychologist will recommend a course of treatment during the initial sessions.
It is recommended to book a few sessions in advance, especially if you require a specific time slot.
We aim to respond to enquiries within 48 hours.
Please note that we are not an on-call crisis service.
If you need urgent assistance, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or the Mental Health Access Line on 1800 011 511. You can also attend your local Emergency Department or call 000 for immediate assistance.
How long until you hear from us?
Saltwater Psychology is now open in Newport, with immediate availability for new clients.
When a waitlist is in place, we aim to triage appropriately, with a goal of offering all current and past clients an appointment within two weeks. If you cannot find an appointment online, please call - there is usually one emergency slot available each week.