Frequently Asked Questions

Why choose Spataro Psychology?

We are a boutique Clinical Psychology practice committed to meeting the personalised needs of our clients in a timely and respectful manner. We understand the complexities of the mental health system and the interfaces of medicine and psychiatry. We work systemically and collaboratively using evidence-based therapies to facilitate the personal growth and development of our patients.

Do I need a referral to commence sessions?

No, you may choose to see a psychologist without a referral or Mental Health Care Plan, but you will not be able to claim these sessions under Medicare. If you have private health insurance, you may be able to claim your sessions under your extras cover, however, you cannot access rebates from both Medicare and your private health insurance. Please contact your fund for further information. You may also choose to pay the full fee, without a rebate from health insurance. 

How do I obtain a referral to access rebates under Medicare?

You can obtain a referral letter from your GP, Psychiatrist or Paediatrician, under the Medicare Better Access Scheme. You will need to organise an extended appointment with your referrer so that a Mental Health Care Plan can be established. Under the Better Access Scheme, you are entitled to a rebate for 10 sessions per calendar year. 

Under the Better Access Scheme, you will receive a rebate of $141.85 per session after consultation with a clinical psychologist.

What are your fees?

Please discuss fees upon initial enquiry. Payment is required at the conclusion of the appointment via credit card. We will also claim your Medicare rebate online, with your rebate being deposited into the account registered with Medicare on the evening of the appointment. At this stage, we cannot claim private health insurance rebates on your behalf.

How long do I have to wait to see a psychologist?

At Spataro Psychology, it is our mission to provide timely psychological support to our patients. We understand that it has often taken some courage to recognise that psychological support is required and to contact a psychologist. As such, we aim to accommodate new patients within 2-4 weeks of first contact, however, wait times can extend during busier times. The initial intake call is important in this regard as the urgency of intervention will be assessed.  If we cannot accommodate in a timely manner, we will offer names of recommended psychologists who may be able to assist sooner. We do not keep a waiting list as we want people to access the support they need when they need it.

Do you offer Telehealth sessions?

Yes! At present, all sessions are conducted via Telehealth. Due to the success of Telehealth during the pandemic, Medicare rebates for Telehealth sessions are now permanent.

What is your cancellation policy?

Should you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please contact Spataro Psychology as soon as possible, and with more than 48 hours' notice (excluding weekends) to ensure that your appointment time can be offered to another patient, especially in this time of increased demand for mental health services. For example, a Monday 930am appointment needs to be cancelled by Thursday 930am, and a Tuesday 930am appointment needs to be cancelled by Friday 930am. 

Cancellations with less than 48 hours' notice will incur a cancellation fee that needs to be paid on the day of the appointment (full details will be discussed upon scheduling an initial assessment session). Cancellation fees cannot be claimed under Medicare. 

What about confidentiality?

We understand that people are often concerned about their privacy and confidentiality.  Any information disclosed to us is confidential and will not be disclosed without your consent, except in circumstances of risk of harm to self and/or other.  If we are contacted by a partner, parent, or friend, we will always obtain your consent before we speak with this person. If there is any need to disclose information to another professional (such as a doctor or family member) you will be consulted first.

The legal limitations to confidentiality will be discussed with you during your first session.

Who do I contact in an emergency?

Spataro Psychology makes every effort to support you, however, we are not a crisis service and do not operate outside of business hours, Monday to Friday.

If you require additional support, please contact your GP, Psychiatrist, or the emergency department of your nearest hospital.