Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs
What to ExpecT
Beginning With Confidence
Seeking support can feel like a big step. To help you feel more confident about reaching out, here are answers to some of the questions clients commonly ask before their first appointment.
If your question isn’t answered here, you’re always welcome to get in touch. I’m happy to provide further clarification.

FAQ
Common Questions
Getting Started
How do I book an appointment?
Booking an appointment is simple. Complete the enquiry form on the Contact page, and New Life Psychology will be in touch to discuss your needs and guide you through the next steps.
What happens in the first session?
Your first session is a gentle opportunity to talk about what has brought you to therapy, the support you’re looking for, and any questions you may have. It also includes an initial assessment to understand your current concerns, relevant background, health status, and therapy goals.
It is a space to begin building understanding and a comfortable, trusting therapeutic relationship as part of a gentle, collaborative conversation.
Fee & Rebates
Do I need a referral?
You do not need a referral to see a clinical psychologist. You can attend sessions privately.
What are your fees & rebates?
Standard sessions usually involve a gap fee. The exact out-of-pocket cost may vary depending on your funding type, and you are welcome to enquire for details.
Medicare (Mental Health Care Plan):
With a valid GP or psychiatrist referral and Mental Health Care Plan, you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate of $149.05 for a 50-minute session (from 1 July 2026).
Private Health Insurance:
Many funds offer rebates for psychology services. Please check with your provider for details.
NDIS (Self-managed or Plan-managed):
Funding may be available depending on your plan.
DVA:
Eligible clients may access services with no gap fee.
If you would like to access a Medicare rebate, a valid referral and Mental Health Care Plan from your GP or psychiatrist is required. This allows you to claim a rebate for up to 10 sessions per calendar year.
What is your cancellation policy?
It is understood that unexpected situations can arise. If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please provide as much notice as possible. To avoid a cancellation fee, please provide at least 48 hours’ notice (across two business days). Appointments cancelled or rescheduled with less than 48 hours’ notice will incur $150 cancellation fee.
Sessions
How long are session and how frequent do they occur?
Sessions usually last 50–55 minutes. In some cases, longer sessions may be recommended.
Sessions often begin more frequently (weekly or fortnightly) and may be reduced over time as progress is made.
How many sessions will I need?
Some people benefit from short-term therapy (6–10 sessions), while others may typically engage in 12–15 sessions to address specific concerns. Longer-term therapy may also be appropriate depending on individual needs and goals.
Therapy is tailored to each person, and the appropriate length is discussed collaboratively over time.
How do I know if this is the right fit?
The early sessions are an important opportunity to begin building a sense of comfort, safety, and trust within the therapeutic relationship, as this is central to effective therapy.
As therapy begins, it may become clearer whether this approach feels like the right fit for your needs. If another psychologist or healthcare provider may be more suitable, alternative referral options can be discussed.
Support Areas
What presenting concerns can be supported?
Support may be helpful for people experiencing anxiety or panic, depression or loneliness, stress or burnout, grief and loss, difficulties with life transitions, relationship or friendship challenges, trauma, emotional overwhelm, and other mental health concerns.
Is support tailored to each person?
The practice offers personalized, evidence-based care that is responsive to each client’s needs, concerns, and pace.
Can my faith be included in the therapy?
Clients from a faith or belief background are welcome to share this aspect of their identity in therapy, at a level that feels comfortable for them. Many people find it meaningful to explore their concerns within the context of their spiritual or cultural values.
You can feel assured that clinicians work within a professional code of ethics that emphasises respect, neutrality, and a non-judgemental approach to each person’s personal, spiritual, and moral beliefs. Whatever your faith or belief system, you will receive high-quality, compassionate care.

Ready to Reach Out?
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