Psychology FAQ, Essendon

 What sort of mental health issues can you help with?

Our experienced team of psychologists can help with a wide range of mental health and behavioural problems including depression, anxiety, grief counselling, couples counselling, anger management and stress management.

What ages do you treat?

Our psychologists can help people across the lifespan – from early infancy, through childhood, adolescence and adulthood to the elderly. We see individuals, couples and families.

What will happen in a therapy session?

All clients are treated as individuals, so counselling and treatment plans can differ greatly. But we are committed to providing a welcoming, respectful and supportive environment to help you overcome your difficulties.

At Buckley Consulting Group we take a clear and practical approach to assisting you.

How long does a session go for?

A session with a psychologist  lasts for 50 minutes.

How long will I need psychology treatment for?

Length and frequency of treatment depends entirely on your needs. Some people might only need a few sessions with our experienced psychologists, while others might need ongoing counselling and psychology therapy over the medium to long term.

Does information from psychology counselling sessions stay confidential?

As per the Australian Psychological Society’s (APS) Code of Ethics our psychologists must respect the confidentiality of information obtained from clients in their course of work.

All personal information gathered by your psychologist during the provision of the psychological service will remain confidential and secure except where:

1. It is subpoenaed by a court, or
2. Failure to disclose the information would place you or another person at serious and imminent risk; or
3. Your prior approval has been obtained to (a) provide a written report to another professional or agency eh. A general practitioner, or a lawyer; or (b) discuss the material with another person (eg) a parent, school, or employer; or if disclosure is otherwise required or authorised by law.

Do I need a referral to make an appointment with a psychologist at Buckley Consulting Group if I want counselling and advice?

No, a referral isn’t necessary at Essendon-based psychology clinic Buckley Consulting Group. You can simply contact Joanne, our practice manager, to make an appointment with one of our team.

Are there rebates for consultations?

Yes, there are medicare rebates for psychological treatment by registered psychologists. The rebates are available under the Australian Government Better Access to Mental Health Care initiative. All psychologists at Buckley Consulting Group are registered providers of psychological treatment. To be eligible for a Medicare rebate our clients have to have a referral from a General Practitioner, a psychiatrist or paediatrician. Your General Practitioner must fill out a Mental Health Treatment Plan before referring you to a psychologist.

If you have private health insurance and your level of cover includes psychological treatment you might be able to claim a partial rebate for the consultation.

When are you open?

Our Essendon psychology practice is open Monday to Friday and we also offer evening appointments on several days but these are understandably limited and typically in high demand. Opening times are Monday, 10am to 6pm; Tuesday, 10am to 8pm; Wednesday, 10am to 6pm; Thursday, 10am to 6pm; and Friday, 10am to 5pm.

Does Buckley Consulting Group write reports?

Yes. Buckley Consulting Group can assist with writing reports. Charges apply for assessment, consultation, and the preparation of written reports. The charges will be openly discussed with you.

What is the difference between a counsellor and a psychologist?

To practice as a psychologist a person must have successfully completed a minimum of six years of training. A practising psychologist must also be registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency and abide by registration and practice guidelines. Only registered psychologists can use the title of psychologist. Counsellor training is varied, therefore there are no regulations, restrictions or qualification requirements to use the title of counsellor.

Our psychologists at Buckley Consulting Group are all registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and abide by the appropriate code of ethics.

Where do I find you?

Buckley Consulting Group is located at 176 Buckley Street, Essendon in Melbourne. Many of our clients come from Essendon and surrounding suburbs including Moonee Ponds and Brunswick West. Contact us for information or an appointment. Our practice is easily accessible by public transport, including tram, train and bus.