Frequently asked questions

Will I be able to see my psychologist face-to-face?

Yes, when the lockdown ends and face-to face appointments become available again. Please note - clients who attend in-person sessions, at any of our locations, must be fully vaccinated (with both jabs).

How long will I have to wait for an appointment?

We are currently experiencing a strong demand and may not be able to offer immediate appointments, but we can get you started with a range of cost-effective group sessions and short courses that can help you while you wait. You can also book these directly through our online SHOP.

What are your opening hours?

Reception is open 6 days a week: 
 Mondays - Thursdays 8:30am-6:30pm 
 Fridays - 8:30am - 6pm
 Saturdays - 9am-3pm

After hours appointments may also be available.

We are closed on public holidays.

Where are you located?

Our main practice is located in the Melbourne CBD at Level 2, 50 Queen Street, Melbourne 3000.

We also have psychologists in surrounding suburbs including:

We additionally have psychologists located interstate.

How can I get in touch with you?

  • You can call us on 1300 161 639 to speak with one of our friendly receptionists
  • You can submit a contact form through our website, and someone will be in touch with you
  • Chat us through our website to speak with someone live
  • Or email us at info@psychologymelbourne.com.au

See our contact information here.

What is your cancellation policy?

We understand that cancellations are sometimes necessary, but we do require 48 hours notice. That allows someone on what can be a long waiting list to fill your appointment. You will receive a reminder 48 hours prior to ensure enough time to reschedule.

Cancellations of test packages will be charged a 10% admin fee.

What are the available times and days for appointments?

Psychology Melbourne has appointments during the day, in the evening and on Saturdays at our CBD offices, and other suburban and regional clinics. Contact us for more information.

Are psychological services covered by my private health fund?

Psychology Melbourne’s psychologists are registered as providers with private health funds. Some funds will provide rebates for psychological services, however it is advisable to check with your specific fund as to whether your 'extras cover' includes psychological services and the amount of repayment.

If you are eligible, you can choose to use either your private health insurance or Medicare to pay for psychological services you receive. However, you can only use one form of rebate for each session.

Do I have to prepay?

As new client, your first appointment must be prepaid. This protocol is in place due to the busy nature of our clinic and to ensure attendance. Payment is processed simply calling our friendly receptionists and providing your card details. Payment is securely processed through SecurePay and receipts will be emailed to you. Appointments after 7pm will also be processed the day of, reception will send you a SMS to advise payment is going to processed that afternoon.

Do you bulk bill appointments?

Psychology Melbourne does not offer bulk billing, however for those on a Health Care Card, we may be able to accommodate a lower fee on a case by case basis, and with a request from your GP. It is important to mention this to reception when making an appointment.

How do I get a Mental Health Care Plan?

Please visit your General Practitioner (GP) and explain your mental health concerns. Your GP will then give you a hard copy of your plan, or fax it to your psychologist with your referral. Bring these documents to your first consultation and they will entitle you to the Medicare rebate.

How do I pay for appointments that aren't in the CBD?

We only have reception staff at our CBD practice. If your appointment is offsite, your payments will be processed through SecurePay and your psychologist will let us know once you have attended so we can process your rebate.

How much does it cost to see a psychologist?

Matching fee:

  • The initial matching session is $170, with a Medicare rebate of $63.55 under the Mental Health Plan.

Standard fees

  • Sessions vary from $220 - $250 during the day, and $230 - $260 for after hours appointments and Saturdays.

Medicare rebates:

  • All our psychologists are registered with Medicare, allowing clients with a referral from their GP to receive a substantial rebate. Medicare covers up to 50% of the session.
  • Medicare does not provide rebates for Testing and Assessments.

Financial hardship and student discounts:

  • Low fee options for people with financial difficulties are available for those in exceptional circumstances.

Am I eligible for a telehealth Medicare rebate for my online counselling session?

Medicare rebates are available for video and telephone counselling by registered psychologists under arrangements announced by the Federal Government on March 11 to counter the COVID-19 crisis.

They provide rebates for vulnerable clients at risk of infection, including anyone who:

  • have been diagnosed with COVID-19 virus but who are not a patient of a hospital; or
  • have been required to isolate themselves in quarantine in accordance with home isolation guidance issued by Australian Health Protection Principal Committee; or
  • considered more susceptible to the COVID-19 virus being:
    • at least 70 years old, or
    • at least 50 years old or over if of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent; or
    • pregnant; or
    • a parent of a child under 12 months; or
    • a person under treatment for chronic health conditions or who are immune compromised.

What is the Medicare Safety Net?

The Medicare Safety Net is designed to support people who require a lot of medical services in a calendar year.

If you have significant medical expenses, and plan to see a psychologist regularly, your visits to your psychologist could cost you a lot less.

Medicare Safety Nets have thresholds. When you spend certain amounts in gap and out of pocket costs, you’ll reach the thresholds. Once you’ve reached the thresholds, you’ll start getting higher Medicare benefits. This means you’ll get more money back for certain Medicare services.

The threshold amounts are set each year from 1 January.

Only Medicare can track the threshold for you. They provide a specific code when you have begun to tap into your threshold. You need to contact Medicare yourself on https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/medicare.

Eligible medical expenses that contribute to the threshold include seeing a doctor or specialists, some tests and scans like blood tests and CT scans.

Only verified payments count towards the threshold. Verified payments are when you pay for your health professional service in full, before you make a claim. If you have unverified payments, you’ll need to pay them before they count towards your threshold.

Individuals will automatically get the higher rebates as soon as the threshold is reached, but couples and families need to register with Medicare (even if you are all on the same Medicare card) to allow Medicare to keep track of all your expenses.

You can check your threshold amount at any time through either your:

How do I know if I've reached the Medicare safety Net?

  1. If you're using a computer, login to myGov and select Medicare. Alternatively, if you're using the myGov app, open it and enter your myGov pin.
  2. Select 'Safety Net' from the Services menu.
  3. Select the 'year' you want from the dropdown menu.

How long is a counselling session?

Ongoing sessions run for just under one hour. The initial matching sessions run for 30 minutes.

How many sessions will I need?

After your initial session, we will book you in for six appointments to ensure you have a regular place. At your third or fourth appointment, you and your psychologist will review your progress and discuss future plans.

The therapeutic process differs depending on the individual and the complexity of the issues presented. It is dependent on factors such as previous counselling, support networks, and coping strategies.

The psychologists at Psychology Melbourne are experienced in providing both long- and short-term counselling and develop specific treatment plans based on your needs.

Is my information treated confidentially?

At Psychology Melbourne we adhere by the guidelines of the National Privacy Principles. We care about your privacy, and protect your private details.

All information shared in your session with a psychologist is confidential. The only exceptions are if you are at risk of harm to yourself or someone else, or if it is court-mandated. If either of these situations occur, they will be discussed with you.

What is a psychologist?

Psychologists have completed several years of university studies in the science of mental functioning and human behaviour. They have professional, supervised training and clinical skills that allow them to help people deal more effectively with life problems and address mental health issues.

A counsellor is a person who assists people “to develop understanding about themselves and to make changes in their lives”. There are different types of counsellors and each may have very different qualifications and experience levels. There is no mandated minimum training and qualification framework for counsellors, although the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA) maintains a national voluntary register of counsellors and psychotherapists who have satisfied that body’s minimum training standard.

A therapist is a more broad term. Although it is often used interchangeably with psychologist or counsellor, there are no regulatory restrictions on who can call themselves a therapist. Make sure when you are looking for assistance with mental health that you choose a qualified psychologist, and check their credentials in psychology.

What is the difference between a matching and a direct appointment?

The matching session is a 30 minute appointment where one of our trained matching psychologists will meet and discuss your issues and recommend the best psychologist for you to work with.

As we have over 60 psychologists at Psychology Melbourne, the matching session is a great option for those new to therapy and to find the psychologist that will be the best fit for you,who you are going to work with and who will actively be able to address your needs and concerns.

Alternately, direct appointments are great for those who are more urgently wanting to see a psychologist, who have limited availability, or are wanting to get started straight away. Our receptionists will be able to discuss your preferences with you and book you in with someone suitable.

When should I seek counselling assistance?

People seek counselling for a variety of reasons, and at different stages in their lives. There is no rule or set structure for when someone should speak with a psychologist.

Some of the most common reasons are for treatment of depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem or lowered motivation.

Some of the clients at Psychology Melbourne use counselling as part of a mental fitness program. They find their sessions with a psychologist help them to maintain healthy mental functioning so that they can respond better to unpredictable life stressors.

People can attend counselling alone, with their partners (relationship counselling) or with their families (family counselling).

Read more about what problems our psychologists can help with.

If you are in an emergency, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

What should I expect on my first visit?

Psychology Melbourne offers an initial matching intake, which we have found is the best way for clients to find a psychologist who will work for them.

Our research shows that matched clients achieve better outcomes and are more satisfied with the counselling process.

If you elect to use our matching service, during your initial session, one of our matching psychologists will:

  • Discuss what has brought you to counselling and what you hope to achieve. He or she will help you select the most suitable psychologist for you.
  • Explain how counselling works and answer any questions
  • Advise which educational classes, if any, would improve the effectiveness of counselling
  • Help you set goals that you would like to achieve from counselling
  • Explain how you can use our services to resolve any concerns you may have during your counselling

Find out more about the initial matching session.

If you choose or are referred directly to a particular psychologist (rather than having an initial matching session) he or she will:

  • Discuss your issues and what you hope to achieve
  • Explain how counselling works and answer any questions
  • Advise which educational classes, if any, would improve the effectiveness of counselling
  • Help you set goals that you would like to achieve from counselling
  • Explain how you can use our services to resolve any concerns you may have during your counselling

Tell me more about your classes

We offer short courses for between six to 10 participants, which are run by qualified psychologists and are eligible for Medicare rebates with a GP’s referral. These courses will teach you new skills and strategies and can accelerate your progress towards your goals.

Find out more about our classes.

About Group Therapy

Are these group sessions live?

Yes, all groups are online and live so feel free to take notes, so you get the most out of the group program content. We also make time for Q&A at the end of each session so if you have any questions about the course content you can ask the Psychologist directly.

How many participants are there in the group program?

Normally there are between 6- 10 participants in the group zoom session. You will be able to see the Group Leader and the other participants in the group. You will also be able to ask Q&A questions either during the group or at the end of the group.

If I miss one of the group dates can I watch the recording?

Our Psychology groups are live events and are not recorded for client confidentiality and privacy reasons. We are unable to provide a digital copy, however we can provide the group handouts/homework each session.

Alternatively, you can schedule an individual counselling session with the Group Leader if you wish to discuss the session content in detail. Please call our Client Services Team on 1300 161 639 or use our live Chat on the website to book a session.

Are there any other group times available?

At this stage all our groups are running in the evenings, but we will be trialling some during the day next month. Many of our groups are repeated at a later date and we can put you on our waiting list for the next one. Please call our Client Services Team on 1300 161 639 or use our live Chat on the website to be added to a wait list.

Will other participants see me in the group?

The Zoom session is presented to the group, and you will be able to see the other participants. We ensure confidentiality by only making your first name visible. We do not want people turn off their video cameras for safety reasons and we don’t allow other people in the room for confidentiality reasons.

Can I have a private consultation with the group leader?

It is up to the Group Leaders whether they will provide one-on-one sessions for group members as it may be disruptive for the group. Please call our Client Services Team on 1300 161 639 to request this and they will pass on your request to the Group Leader.

If I want more extensive counselling, can this be organised?

We can arrange one-on-one counselling sessions with your Group Leader once the group has ended. To request this, please call our Client Services Team on 1300 161 639 or use our live Chat on the website



Group Confidentiality

Will participants be able to discuss the group sessions?

A Group Therapy Agreement will be sent to the participants at the end of the first session. This states that it is permitted to discuss group content outside the group, but not anything of a personal nature that is shared within the group.

No-one else should be present in the room during the group session and only first names will be visible on the video screen.

Make sure you have a quiet, closed space to participate in the group as confidentiality is important for you and others in the group.



Group Bookings

How do I book into an online group?

You can easily book a group online on our groups page by selecting the group you are interested in. When you click on the ‘Book Now’ button, you will be able to pay by VISA or MasterCard.

Alternatively, you can call Reception and pay by phone using a credit card or bank transfer. Once your booking is complete, you will receive an email confirming your booking.

Please ensure you enter your email address carefully to ensure you receive your Zoom link.

By Phone - Simply call our Client Services Team on 1300 161 639 or use our live Chat on the website and we can take your booking over the phone by VISA or MasterCard or bank transfer.

Can I book a group as a gift for a friend?

Yes, you certainly can! We have Group Gift Certificates available to purchase so you can gift someone special, and they can choose any of our courses to enrol in.

Alternatively, you can book an online group and include your friend's email, First Name, Last Name and Phone Number but pay for it yourself and we will send them the confirmation email directly to access the course content.

If you would like any assistance, please contact our Client Service Team on 1300 161 639 or use our live Chat on the website.



Group Payments and Medicare

What credit cards do you accept?

We accept payments by VISA or MasterCard online or by phone on 1300 161 639. Payment in full is required prior to the group commencing.

Can I pay with After Pay?

Yes, you certainly can! After Pay allows you to split your purchases into four interest-free instalments, so you will pay your first instalment at the time of purchase, and the remainder every fortnight.

You can find your payment schedule in the After Pay app and they will send you regular payment reminders. For more information about AfterPay, visit https://www.afterpay.com.

Can I pay by EFT?

No, we don’t offer EFT, but we accept bank transfers. Please contact Reception on 1300 161 639 to discuss this in more detail.

Do you offer concession fees for group programs?

We reserve a limited number of places for those people with a Health Care Card. Call our Reception Team on 1300 161 639 or use our live Chat on the website to discuss this in more detail.

Is there a Medicare rebate for Groups?

If you have a current Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) and are in a telehealth eligible area, you will be suitable to apply for up to 10 group rebates per calendar year, however rebates only paid after you have attended the session.

The MHCP provides 10 individual rebates as well as 10 group rebates, so you do not lose any rebates doing a group.

Group rebates are available only if you are in a telehealth eligible area within MMM classifications and a minimum 15 km away from where the group is being held https://www.health.gov.au/resources/apps-and-tools/health-workforce-locator. Reception can assist you with eligibility and locations where each group leader is located at the time of a group.

Do I need a GP referral to do a group program?

If you don’t have a current Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP), you will need to discuss this with your GP.

The MHCP provides 10 individual rebates as well as 10 group rebates, so you do not lose any rebates doing a group.

Can I claim a rebate for group and individual sessions at the same time?

Yes, with a current Mental Health Care Plan and if you are in a telehealth eligible area, you will be eligible for 10 individual sessions plus 10 group therapy sessions per calendar year. This means that no Medicare rebates will be deducted from your individual treatment. 

Can I get a rebate from Private Health Insurance?

Our Psychologists are registered as providers with Private Health Funds. Some funds will allow rebates for psychological services, however it is advisable to check with your specific fund to see if your 'extras cover' includes this and the amount of repayment.

If you are eligible, you can choose to use your Private Health Insurance to pay for courses and we will send you a receipt for you to claim your rebate online.



Online Group Access

What video host do you use for groups?

Our online groups are hosted on Zoom https://zoom.us which is free to use and allows you to see, hear and participate in the group. It has audio and video functionality built-in so you can easily talk plus a chat window to type any questions you have about the group content.

What equipment do I need for groups?

You will need a computer, laptop or mobile phone with speakers or headphones and internet access. The bandwidth used by Zoom will be optimised to your network speed and will automatically adjust the quality for 3G, WiFi and wired environments.

If you have a microphone and/or webcam you will to be able to participate using audio and video. The full Zoom specifications can be viewed here - https://support.zoom.com/hc/en/article?id=zm_kb&sysparm_article=KB0060748.

If you like to take notes, have a pad and pen handy to write things down during the session. A glass of water is also a good idea.

How do I access the ZOOM session?

We will email you a link and password to access the scheduled Zoom session on the day of the group session. You can use the link within the email or visit https://zoom.us/join and add the Meeting ID to access the course

Can I view the Zoom session using my mobile device?

Yes, you can use mobile devices like phones and tablets and the full Zoom specifications can be viewed here - https://support.zoom.com/hc/en/article?id=zm_kb&sysparm_article=KB0060748.

Prior to your group you can download the Zoom mobile app here - https://zoom.us/download.

Make sure you have a quiet, closed space to participate in the group as confidentiality is important for you and others in the group. Only first names are visible on the screens.

When will I receive my link for the session?

We will email you a link and password to access the scheduled Zoom session on the day of the group session.

What if I do not receive the Zoom link?

We recommend that you check your email for the group zoom link well before 5pm on the day of your course (and don’t forget to check your junk mail if you can’t locate it).

If you do not have it, please call our Client Services Team on 1300 161 639 to resend it to you so you don’t miss your first session. We provide IT support for 10 minutes before the group starts.

What happens when I click the URL link?

When you click on your course link, the Zoom desktop or mobile app will download automatically to your device if you don’t already have the program installed, and you just follow the prompts to join the course. If preferred, you can install Zoom prior to the group session start from here - https://zoom.us/download.



Group Cancellations

If I can’t make it to my group is there a refund?

Unless in the case of a genuine emergency, we do not provide refunds on groups once they have been purchased, but you can transfer it to another person. There is also an admin fee of $100 for cancellations.

Please call our Reception team on 1300 161 639 or use our live Chat on the website to make any adjustments to your enrolmen.

What if the group program gets cancelled?

If for any reason the group is cancelled, you will be offered a full refund, or you can use it as a credit on another group or an individual online session with the Group Leader or another psychologist.

Can I organise a group at my workplace?

If you require a group for your workplace, we can arrange this for you either online or in-person. Contact our Client Services Team on 1300 161 639or use our live Chat on the website for further information.

About Short Courses

Are these courses live?

Yes, all courses are live so feel free to take notes so you get the most out of the course content. We also make time for Q&A at the end of each session so if you have any questions about the course content you can ask the Psychologist directly.

How many students are there in the online course?

Normally there are between 5-15 students in the course Zoom session. You will be able to see the presenter and the other participants in the group. You will also be able to ask Q&A questions either during the group or at the end of the group. 

If I miss one of the course dates can I watch the recording?

Our Psychology courses are all live events and are not recorded so we are unable to provide a digital copy. We can provide the course notes or a one-on-one counselling session with the Psychologist that presents your course so you can discuss the course content in further detail. Please call our Client  Services Team on 1300 161 639 or use our live Chat on the website to book a session.

Are there any other course times available?

All our current courses can be viewed at - https://www.psychologymelbourne.com.au/psychology-group-therapy. If you would like to book into one of our courses at a later date, please contact us and we can subscribe you to our monthly newsletter so you can access our upcoming courses as soon as they are launched.

Will I need to do any reading before the course?

You aren’t required to complete any prior reading or learning as our courses are designed to teach you about the topic in detail.

Will other students see me in the course?

The Zoom session is presented to the group and you will be able to see the other students. If you don’t wish to be visible, you can easily turn off your video camera.

Can I have a private consultation with the course teacher?

We can provide one-on-one counselling sessions with the Psychologist that presents your course so you can discuss the course content in further detail. Please call our Customer Service Team on 1300 161 639 to book an online session or in our clinic.

If I want more extensive training, can that be organised?

We can provide one-on-one counselling sessions with the Psychologist that presents your course so you can discuss the course content in further detail. Please call our Customer Service Team on 1300 161 639 to book a session online or in our clinic. Alternatively if you require more advanced course content for Group Training or an EAP Program, our Customer Service Team can assist you on 1300 161 639.



Online Course Access

What program do you use for your online courses?

Our online courses are hosted on Zoom https://zoom.us which is free to use and allows you to see and hear the Psychologist presenting the course. It also has audio and video functionality built-in so you can easily talk to the Psychologist plus a chat window to type any questions you have about the course content.

What do I need for the course?

You will need a computer, laptop or mobile phone with speakers or headphones and internet access. The bandwidth used by Zoom will be optimised to your network speed and will automatically adjust the quality for 3G, WiFi and wired environments. If you have a microphone and/or webcam you will to be able to participate using audio and/or video if you like. The full Zoom specifications can be viewed here - https://support.zoom.com/hc/en/article?id=zm_kb&sysparm_article=KB0060748. If you like to take notes, have a pad and pen handy or you can type points during the presentation.

How do I access the session via Zoom?

We will email you a link and password to access the scheduled Zoom session on the day of the course. You can use the link within the email or visit https://zoom.us/join and add the Meeting ID to access the course.

Can I view the Zoom session using my mobile device?

Yes you can use mobile devices like phones and tablets and the full Zoom specifications can be viewed here - https://support.zoom.com/hc/en/article?id=zm_kb&sysparm_article=KB0060748. Prior to your course you can download the Zoom mobile app here - https://zoom.us/download.

When will I receive my link for the session?

We will email you a link and password to access the scheduled Zoom session on the day of the course.

What happens when I click the URL link?

When you click on your course link, the Zoom desktop or mobile app will download automatically to your device if you don’t already have the program installed, and you just follow the prompts to join the course. If preferred, you can install Zoom prior to the course start from here - https://zoom.us/download.

What if I do not receive the Zoom link?

We recommend that you check your emails for the Zoom course link before 5pm on the day of your course (and don’t forget to check your junk mail if you can’t locate it). If you do not have it, please call our Client Services Team on 1300 161 639 to resend it to you so you don’t miss your first session.



Course Bookings

How do I book a course?

Online - You can easily book the course online by going to our courses page, selecting the course you are interested in and completing the ‘Book Now’ form. This will allow you to pay by VISA or MasterCard and once processed you will receive a confirmation email to confirm your booking. Please ensure you enter your email address carefully to ensure you receive your Zoom link.

By Phone - Simply call our Client Services Team on 1300 161 639 or use our live Chat on the website and  we can take your booking and payment over the phone by VISA or MasterCard. 

Can I book a course as a gift or for a friend?

Yes you certainly can! We have Course Gift Certificates available to purchase so you can gift someone special and they can choose any of our courses to enroll in. Alternatively, you can book any of our online courses and include your friend's Email, First Name, Last Name and Phone Number but pay for it yourself and we will send them the confirmation email directly to access the course content. If you would like any assistance, please contact our Client Service Team on 1300 161 639 or use our live Chat on the website.

What credit cards do you accept?

We accept payments by VISA or MasterCard online or by phone on 1300 161 639, prior to the course commencement. A part-payment system is available for those in need.

Can I pay with AfterPay?

Yes you certainly can! Afterpay allows you to split your purchases into four interest-free instalments, so you'll pay your first instalment at the time of purchase, and the remainder every fortnight. You can find your payment schedule in the Afterpay app and they will send you regular payment reminders. For more information about Afterpay, visit https://www.afterpay.com.

Can I pay by EFT?

Unfortunately we do not provide an EFT option but we accept payments by VISA or MasterCard online or by phone on 1300 161 639, prior to the course commencement.

Do you offer concession prices for courses?

We reserve a limited number of places for those people with a Health Care Card. Call our Reception Team on 1300 161 639 or use our live Chat on the website to discuss this in more detail.

How do I organise a group booking?

If you require a Psychology course for your group or workplace we can facilitate a Psychologist to provide online, face-to-face or fully customised course content. Our EAP Team also provides wellbeing workshops and EAP packages to improve productivity, capability and wellbeing in the workplace. Contact our Client Services Team on 1300 161 639 or use our live Chat on the website for further details and to book over the phone.



Course Rebates

Do I need a GP referral to do a course?

Our courses are open to all clients so you don’t require a GP referral to enroll. Currently Medicare rebates only apply to face-to-face attendances which we are not offering. 

Can I get a rebate from Private Health Insurance?

Our Psychologists are registered as providers with Private Health Funds. Some funds will allow rebates for psychological services, however it is advisable to check with your specific fund to see if your 'extras cover' includes this and the amount of repayment. If you are eligible, you can choose to use your Private Health Insurance to pay for courses and we will send you a receipt for you to claim your rebate online.



Course Cancellations

If I can’t make it to my course is there a refund?

We do not provide refunds on courses once they have been purchased but will be able to assist you in changing the name and email address on the enrolment if you have someone else that would like to take your place. Please call our Customer Service Team on 1300 161 639 or use our live Chat on the website to make any adjustments to your enrolment.

What if the course gets cancelled?

If for any reason the course is cancelled, you will be offered a refund in full, or you can book into the next available course. Alternatively we can schedule a one-on-one session either online or in our clinic with the Psychologist that was presenting the course.

About Testing

Why is psychological testing important?

The purpose of psychological testing is to gain a better understanding of the person and establish whether a diagnosis of a psychiatric condition is warranted. It is important to remember that a psychiatric condition can be mild, moderate, or severe. A test also provides recommendations for treatment to help improve the person’s well-being. It is like a road map for future treatment.

Testing uses validated and reliable measures to gauge aspects of a person’s psychological or cognitive functioning. They may include questionnaires and surveys or a set of puzzles and activities to measure a person’s problem-solving ability or memory.

Are psychological tests accurate?

Psychological tests undergo rigorous standards to establish reliability and validity, usually over many years. In Australia psychologists are trained I the administration, interpretation and reporting of psychological tests.

What are the different types of psychological tests?

Psychology Melbourne offers a range of cognitive and personality testing packages for adults and children. This includes Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Testing, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Testing, IQ Testing, Personality Testing, and Brain Health Testing for early symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Who can administer psychological tests?

Most psychological testing is administered by a psychologist and is a formal process that requires extensive training and expertise. Psychologists are the only professionals that are trained in administering and interpreting psychological tests.

Psychology Melbourne has a team of psychologists who are qualified and experienced in testing.

How long does a psychological test take?

Psychological tests take a different amount of time to complete, depending on the complexity of the test. Some tests, such as the Personality test takes about 45 minutes, but other tests such as the IQ test can take up to 2 hours. You need to speak to our Client Services Team to discuss the length of the test you are interested in.

Once you have completed the test, you will commence your 3 consultations with test psychologist. Your psychologist will discuss the reasons for your testing, take a background history and explain your results to you. They will also make recommendations for future treatment.

Will I need medication?

If you are diagnosed with ADHD you may require medication. Psychologists cannot prescribe ADHD medication. This is a restricted medication that can only be prescribed by your GP after an assessment with a psychiatrist or paediatrician. If you are solely seeking medication for ADHD, a psychological report may not be required. However, it provides invaluable insights into understanding the condition and how to best manage it, including non-medication strategies. For medication prescriptions, please consult directly with a psychiatrist.

You may also choose to manage your ADHD without medication via Cognitive Behavioural therapy and other behavioural techniques.

Can I do the test online?

Yes. Some tests, such as personality tests, can easily be done online so that you don’t have to leave home. We email you the link to the test you have chosen and when you have completed it, your results will be added to your file for your psychologist t oread and discuss with you.

We will then email you the video instructions prior to your appointment with your psychologist either on your phone, iPad, laptop or desktop if you have a camera for it. It is best to connect to the link at least 15 minutes before your session in case there are any problems. If you have any problems, contact reception on 1300 161 639 or email info@psychologymelbourne.com.au.

You should wait in the waiting room until your psychologist appears. If there is a problem, contact reception as above.

Will my testing be face-to-face?

Some tests are more complex and require in-person or face-to-face administration. This allows the psychologist to observe the persons behaviour more closely, especially for children. For example, Child Autism and Child ADHD testing must be completed face-to-face, while Personality testing can be done online.

Our Client Services Team will be able to tell you whether the test you have chosen needs to be done in-person or online.

We have psychologists in various locations in Melbourne, including the CBD, Port Melbourne, Sandringham and Balwyn, who can do face-to-face testing for you. Call our Client Services Team on 1300 161 639 and they will be able to help identify the best location for you.

Will I need to do any preparation before the testing?

You may be required to do an online test prior to your first appointment with your psychologist. If this is required, you will be emailed instructions at the time of booking. These are straight forward and come with clear instructions. Results will be discussed during the consultations.

Before you first session it is a good idea to compile a history of your problems or issues and the reasons why you want the test. This can save a lot of time in the session and helps you be clearer when discussing your issues.

Do I need a GP referral to do a test?

No, you don’t need a GP referral to book a psychological test. If you need the test for a legal or a funding organisation such as NDIS, you will need to speak to us beforehand.



Booking a Test

How do I book a testing?

For online testing, you first need to purchase the package you want from our SHOP. You can pay for this by VISA or MasterCard by calling our Client Services Team on 1300 161 639 or using our live Chat on the website. We have Afterpay available if you want to pay by instalments.

Once we receive your payment, Client services will contact you back to book in your test and arrange your appointments. The test may be sent to you online with clear instructions, or it may be done during one of your consultations.

Medicare does not provide rebates for Testing and Assessments.

How much do the psychological tests cost?

The pricing of our psychological testing ranges from $800 - $2000 depending on the type of test you want. The pricing includes three clinical consultations, administration of the test, a a follow up Assessment report and recommendations for future actions.

Payments are required before we can book in your test appointments for you. You can do this on our shopping cart on the website or pay by credit card on the phone. Afterpay is available for paying by instalments.

What credit cards do you accept?

We only accept payments from VISA or MasterCard online or by phone on 1300 161 639. We also have Afterpay available if you want to pay by instalments.

Can I pay with AfterPay?

Yes you can! Afterpay allows you to split your purchases into four interest-free instalments, so you'll pay your first instalment at the time of purchase, and the remainder every fortnight. You can find your payment schedule in the Afterpay app and they will send you regular payment reminders. For more information about Afterpay, visit https://www.afterpay.com.

Can I pay by EFT?

We do not provide an EFT option but we accept payments by VISA or MasterCard online or by phone on 1300 161 639, prior to the course commencement.



Testing rebates

Can I get a rebate from Private Health Insurance?

Our psychologists are registered as providers with Private Health Funds. Some funds will allow rebates for psychological testing services; however it is advisable to check with your specific fund to see if your 'extras cover' includes this and the amount of rebate. If you are eligible, you will have to pay the full cost of the test and we will send you a receipt for you to claim your rebate online.



Testing appointment cancellations

If I miss one of my sessions, can I rebook?

Due to heavy demand for appointments, there may be long delays in rescheduling a session. When booking in your test, we work hard to make sure the appointments will work for you and we send you an Appointment Schedule so you can enter them into your personal calendar. We also send a reminder to you 3 days ahead for each appointment.

Cancellations of test packages will be charged a 10% admin fee.

What happens if I cancel my appointment?

Cancellation fees are charged as we have many people waiting for appointments and need to be able to offer any free appointments to others. A 50% cancellation fee is charged for cancellations within 48 hours of your appointment. Same day cancellations are charged at the full fee.

If you have to change an appointment, contact our Client Services Team on 1300 161 639 or use our live Chat on this website.

What happens if I need to cancel at test package I have already paid for?

Cancellations of test packages will be charged a 10% admin fee.

How many sessions do I get through EAP?

The number of sessions paid by an employer varies depending on the program. In general, most EAP's provide between 3-6 sessions per employee calendar year. In some cases, more sessions may be accessed manager approval. You can contact us or speak to a member of HR at your workplace for more information.

What is an Employee Assistance Program (EAP)?

An Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a confidential, counselling-based intervention program for employees at all levels of an organisation. It is funded by the employer; and provides support to enhance the emotional, mental and general psychological wellbeing of employees.

Providing an EAP for your employees shows them you are committed to their mental and emotional wellbeing; and ongoing workplace health, happiness and performance. It provides a safe, confidential environment to understand and resolve issues that might impact their performance at work. Employees can gain invaluable coping skills and strategies. Even the simple knowledge that they are valued enough to be provided with assistance improves morale

Psychology Melbourne is an EAP provider, and we understand that every organisation is different. All of our programs are tailored to suit your workplace and your needs. Some of the EAP services that we offer include:

Read more about our EAP services.

What is the difference between Self Referral and Manager Referral?

You can choose between two ways of referring your employees to our services:

Self Referral

Any Manager or Staff Member can directly access the EAP for assistance on a voluntary and confidential basis. No prior approval is required.

HR/Management Approved Referral

The employee will approach their HR/Manager to seek consent to access the EAP, or the Managers also identify and refer individuals to the service as required.

The approval will then be sent to us either by:

  • Written/email approval required
  • Verbal approval over the phone

Most organisations choose self referral as employees feel their privacy is more secure. If your workplace has an EAP in place and you're unsure which option you have, contact us or speak to a member of HR or management at your workplace.

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OUR LOCATIONS

MELBOURNE CBD
(main practice)
2/50 Queen Street
VICTORIA
accessible
Phone 1300 161 639 for all locations
Reception Hours:
Mon - Thurs 8:30 am - 6:30 pm
Fri 8:30 am - 6 pm,  Sat 9 am - 2:30 pm
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