• What's the difference between a psychologist and a counsellor?

There are some significant differences between the qualifications, service, treatment and therapy provided between psychologists and counsellors. Psychologists must complete a minimum of 6 years of university study and/or supervised practice to become a registered psychologist in Australia. Psychologists do not have a medical degree. They do however study the physical, cognitive, emotional and social aspects of human behaviour. They are also trained in techniques to diagnose and treat a wide range of emotional, behavioural or cognitive issues. A counsellor can provide psychological support to individuals. They can assist people to make changes in their lives. Currently, in Australia, counsellors are not regulated, and therefore there are no uniform standards of qualifications required.

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• What's the difference between coaching and psychological therapy? 

Understandably, there can be some confusion for clients who are new to therapy, personal growth etc. Clients may be unsure whether a coach or psychologist would better be able to address their needs. Psychologists assess, diagnose, and treat mental illness. As such, therapists often focus their work on identifying and reducing symptoms. Coaches motivate and encourage people to achieve specific goals eg business coaching, personal growth. There may be an overlap between the two modalities.  Many psychologists focus attention on client strengths and resources, and many coaches aim to reduce and resolve the problems that stand in the way of clients achieving their goals. Another difference is in relation to health and Medicare rebates. As psychologists are registered health professionals they are able to provide access to rebated sessions for their clients via Medicare or private health funds. 

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• How many sessions/appointments will I need?

The number of sessions required will vary depending on the issue and your individual needs and circumstances. The process of counselling is unique, as is the number of sessions required per individual or couple. Some issues and circumstances can be resolved in a small number of sessions whilst others require a larger number of sessions to resolve. Depending on the issues at hand and individual circumstances, sessions are scheduled anywhere from a weekly to a monthly basis. The gap between sessions may increase as issues begin to resolve.

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• Is what I discuss confidential with a psychologist?

All appointments at Keeping U On Track are private and confidential. Your psychologist will seek out information from you in order to tailor your appointments/sessions to meet your individual circumstances. Information obtained from you during your appointment is confidential and cannot be disclosed without your consent. There are some legal limitations to confidentiality as set out by the Psychology Board of Australia. These limitations include an immediate or specified risk of harm to an identifiable person’s safety, or if a client’s file is subpoenaed by law. Your psychologist will ask you to sign a consent form if there is a need to discuss information about you with another person (such as a GP, lawyer or third-party billing source).

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• Do I need to be referred by a doctor to see a psychologist?

A GP or psychiatrist referral to the psychologist is required to be eligible for rebates through Medicare. There are also limitations to the number of sessions available for rebates under Medicare.  A doctor referral is not required for rebates from Private Health Insurance or for all other appointments.

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• What can I expect from my first session with Keeping U On Track?

It is understandable to feel uncomfortable or anxious in talking to a new person about your personal circumstances. In your first session, your psychologist or coach will talk with you to gain a full picture of your current circumstances and reasons for making your appointment.  They will also give you an overview of what you can expect from your experience and discuss the strategies you can take to start moving forward in your life. There will be an opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have of your psychologist or coach. All our team take an open and collaborative approach in working with you to address your concerns.

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• How do telehealth appointments work? ​

​Prior to your video-conferencing appointment, you will be sent an email with a link that will enable you to enter the video-conferencing appointment. This link is specific to your appointment. Each client will receive individual links. Should you wish to go ahead with a video conferencing or phone session, a link will be emailed to you which will enable you to join at your appointment time.   All you need to do is let one of our customer relationship teams know that this is your preferred option. 

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• Is telehealth confidential?

​As our team is very mindful of the confidential nature of our services, the platforms we use in conducting our telehealth sessions are all encrypted. We want to reassure you that we have taken all the necessary actions to ensure that your information is safe and secure. 

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• How do I make an appointment? 

​​Clients can make appointments by calling our office on 85811145 or via the Make an Appointment tab on our webpage.  

 

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