Frequently Asked Questions
General Information
We are located at Unit 2, 158 Main Street Osborne Park, WA 6017.
Yes, we offer Telehealth services to provide flexibility and convenience for our clients. While many of our services are available remotely, please note that some assessments require face-to-face components to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness.
No, a referral is not necessary to see our psychologists. However, if you wish to claim Medicare rebates, a referral under a Mental Health Care Plan is required. We also accept referrals for the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of complex neurodevelopment disorders which may attract a medicare rebate for people under 25.
Neurodiversity is the concept that differences in brain function and behavioural traits are normal variations within the human population. It encompasses a range of neurological conditions, recognising that just as biodiversity reflects the range of species in an ecosystem, neurodiversity represents the vast spectrum of neurological differences among people. Terms like ‘neurodivergent’ refer to individuals whose brain functions differ from societal norms, encompassing conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia and others. Embracing neurodiversity is about valuing all individuals equally, acknowledging that each person’s neurological differences are not flaws but aspects of human diversity to be respected.
Our approach and services are designed to recognise and value diverse neurological conditions as natural variations of the human condition. We incorporate principles such as respecting autonomy, presuming competence and validating differences. Our practice actively rejects neuronormative standards, instead creating inclusive environments that adapt to the needs of neurodivergent individuals. We prioritise the lived experiences of our clients, supporting them in self-advocacy and nurturing a positive self-identity that embraces their intrinsic value.
Therapy and Assessments
We offer a holistic approach to therapy, utilising a variety of modalities to best meet the individual needs and goals of our clients. Our experienced therapists are skilled in cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), somatic therapies, schema therapy, and play therapy, among others. We adapt our techniques to ensure they are neurodiversity affirming, drawing on the strengths and lived experiences of each client to create a personalised treatment plan.
- Adults: The initial session focuses on understanding your background, discussing your therapy goals, and establishing a comfortable rapport.
- Children: The approach can vary depending on the child’s age and needs. It might involve playing a game, engaging in a creative activity like Lego, and learning about the child’s hobbies and interests to create a friendly and engaging atmosphere.
Therapy sessions generally last about 50 minutes. For children, the session length can vary based on their needs and age, younger children might benefit from shorter sessions, typically around 30 minutes. Sessions for children can also include time spent with parents or caregivers as part of the normal session length, allowing for a comprehensive discussion of progress and any concerns.
We recognise the vital role that parents and caregivers play in the therapeutic journey, especially when it involves children and adolescents. Involvement varies depending on the specific needs and age of the client but generally includes:
- Initial Consultations: Parents or caregivers are often involved in initial discussions to provide background information and context about the child’s developmental history, behaviour, and current challenges.
- Ongoing Communication: We maintain regular communication with parents and caregivers to update them on progress and discuss any changes in therapy goals or approaches. This communication may occur during or after sessions, as appropriate.
- Participation in Sessions: Depending on the child’s age and the therapy goals, parents may join some therapy sessions partially or fully. This can help reinforce strategies being taught and facilitate a supportive environment at home.
- Educational Resources and Guidance: We provide parents and caregivers with resources and guidance on how to support their child’s development and emotional health outside of therapy sessions. This may include practical strategies for handling specific behaviours, enhancing communication skills, or supporting emotional regulation at home.
- Feedback and Collaborative Planning: Parents and caregivers are encouraged to provide feedback and participate in collaborative planning. This ensures that the therapeutic interventions are aligned with family dynamics and the child’s environment, enhancing the effectiveness of the therapy.
By actively involving parents and caregivers, we ensure a holistic approach that supports not only the child but also the family as a whole, promoting lasting change and development.
We provide a comprehensive range of psychological assessments detailed on our Child and Adolescent and Adult Therapy pages. These assessments cover various developmental, cognitive, and emotional conditions.
A psychological assessment typically includes interviews, direct observations and standardised testing, all designed to gather comprehensive information about an individual’s cognitive and emotional development. This thorough evaluation process is crucial for diagnosing conditions and planning effective intervention strategies.
- For Children: The assessment process involves direct interactions with the child to observe their responses and behaviours, along with structured interviews with parents or caregivers. Teachers and other relevant adults may also provide additional insights through structured questionnaires, helping to complete a well-rounded profile of the child’s abilities and challenges.
- For Adults: Interviews with the individual are complemented by standardised testing and, when appropriate, may also include input from close family members or friends, through interviews or questionnaires.
Scheduling and Policies
To schedule an appointment, please give us a call, send an email or submit an enquiry through our website. You can find all the necessary contact information on our Contact Us page.
Detailed information about our fees can be found on our Fees page.
We understand that illness and unexpected changes can occur. We send a reminder text message 72 hours before your appointment to confirm your attendance.
Our cancellation fees are structured as follows:
- No cancellation: 100% of the fee.
- Less than 48 hours notice: 50% of the fee.
If you do cancel and we can fill your appointment slot with another client, we will waive the cancellation fee. We do our best to accommodate changes, and if you’re unable to attend in person, switching your appointment to Telehealth is always an option.
Please note that cancellation fees are ineligible for medicare rebates.
- Assessments: Currently, there is a 5-6 month wait for assessments. Following the assessment sessions and return of any required questionnaires, there is a 6-8 week period to receive the completed reports.
- Therapy: Wait times for therapy sessions are generally shorter but vary based on your availability and the specific type of therapy required. For more accurate information, please contact us directly.
We value your feedback and are committed to improving our services. Please visit our Feedback page for details on how to submit feedback or a complaint, including our policy and information on external complaint processes.
