​
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:
-
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
-
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
-
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
-
Psychoeducation
-
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)
-
Motivational Interviewing
-
Mindfulness-based approaches
-
Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT)
-
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.
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.
University student rates
A limited number of student slots are available. 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.
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 need only a few sessions, while others may benefit from therapy over a year or more. You can discuss what to expect with your psychologist during the initial sessions.
​
It is recommended to book a few sessions in advance, especially if you require a specific time slot.
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.
NDIS
If you are an NDIS participant, Saltwater Psychology & Consulting can provide assessments and therapy services that may be funded under your plan. A referral or plan approval from the NDIS is required before services can commence. We work closely with participants to tailor evidence-based interventions to your goals, supporting your wellbeing and functional outcomes.
​
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?
How long are your wait lists?
​
Holly has recently opened two additional clinic days and currently has immediate availability.
​
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.