Frequently Asked Questions
How many sessions do people typically have with a psychologist?
The length of therapy varies based on your needs and goals. At Lucent Psychology, we work with clients short-term, medium-term, or long-term depending on their unique situation. Many of our clients benefit from longer-term therapy to explore deeper patterns and create lasting change, while others may seek support for a specific issue over a shorter period.
Do I need a referral to see a psychologist?
No, you do not need a referral to see a psychologist. You are welcome to book an appointment privately at any time. However, if you wish to claim a Medicare rebate, you will need a referral from your GP or psychiatrist under a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP) or an Eating Disorder Treatment and Management Plan (EDP).
What should I expect from my first session?
The first session is an opportunity to get to know one another and discuss your therapy goals. Your psychologist will ask about your history, relationships, upbringing, education, and cultural background to understand your experiences. This assessment helps us determine how to best support you in therapy.
There is nothing you need to prepare in advance. Therapy is a space where you can come as you are, and your psychologist will guide the process in a way that feels comfortable for you.
Do I receive a rebate if I have private health insurance?
If your private health insurance includes psychological counselling in your extras cover, you may be eligible for a partial rebate. The amount of the rebate depends on your insurance provider and level of cover. It is best to check directly with your insurer to confirm your eligibility and rebate amount.
What happens if I’m in crisis and need immediate support?
Lucent Psychology is not an emergency service. If you are in crisis, feeling unsafe, or require urgent support, please:
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Call Lifeline at 13 11 14 (available 24/7)
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Contact 000 for immediate assistance
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Visit your nearest emergency department
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Call the Mental Health Access Line at 1800 011 511 (NSW)
For more mental health support options, you can view a list of local and national services here: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/mental-health-helplines
How long are sessions with a psychologist?
Sessions typically last 50 to 55 minutes.
Our fees range from $200 to $270 depending on the experience of the clinician you see and whether you are paying privately or claiming a Medicare rebate. Please contact us for specific fee details.
Our cancellation policy requires 48 hours' notice (or two business days) to reschedule or cancel an appointment. This allows us to offer your session time to someone else who may be waiting. Appointments cancelled with less than 48 hours’ notice will incur a late cancellation fee.
What is the payment and cancellation policy?
To find out if you are eligible for Medicare rebates, you will need to book an appointment with your GP, psychiatrist, or paediatrician. They will assess whether a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP) or an Eating Disorder Treatment and Management Plan (EDP) is appropriate for you.
A MHTP allows you to claim a Medicare rebate for up to 10 sessions per calendar year. If you are eligible for an EDP, you may be able to access up to 40 rebated sessions per year following an assessment by a qualified healthcare provider.
The current Medicare rebate for a clinical psychologist is $141.85 per session, while the rebate for a registered psychologist is $96.65 per session. To process your Medicare rebate, we will need a copy of your referral and plan before your first session. You can email it to us or bring a copy to your appointment.
How do I know if I am eligible for a Medicare rebate?
At this stage, we do not accept third-party billing clients, including those funded under NDIS, Workers’ Compensation, or other insurance schemes. We currently see individuals who are accessing therapy as private clients or through Medicare with a Mental Health Care Plan (MHTP) or an Eating Disorder Treatment and Management Plan (EDP), however we do not offer bulk-billed sessions.
Do You See Third-Party or Bulk Billing Clients (NDIS, Workers’ Compensation, etc.)?
There are many different types of therapy, each with its own approach and focus. The right fit can depend on your goals, preferences, and the issues you’re facing. At Lucent Psychology, we’ll talk with you about what you’re hoping to get out of therapy and tailor our approach to suit your needs.
If you're curious to learn more about the different types of therapies, you can explore an overview here: https://www.psychologytoday.com/au/types-of-therapy
How do I know which type of therapy is right for me?
If you have any further questions, feel free to contact us.