Telehealth (Phone and Online Video) Counselling

Due to the physical distancing measures that were in place to contain and reduce the spread of the COVID 19, the majority of our practitioners started providing Telehealth online video and phone consultations using a variety of platforms including Zoom, Skype, Facetime and others.

What to expect

Our practitioners will lead you through using the technology and provide support while you get confident. While it may take a little while to get used to online sessions, they can be equally effective and important for maintaining your health and wellbeing during this time.

Your practitioner will have a back-up plan they will communicate to you before your session if technical issues occur. Your practitioner will do their best to give you a good experience of online counselling and minimise any issues.

Some practitioners will continue to provide in-person services, while following Department of Health Guidelines for strict hygiene and infection control measures. Please check with your practitioner to discuss available options.

Privacy, Confidentiality and Security

Privacy, confidentiality and security are a priority in online counselling just as with in-person counselling sessions and if you have any questions or concerns please raise them with your practitioner.

Try to find a quiet, secure, private and comfortable environment with a good internet connection if possible. If you are using a mobile device, it may be possible to do the session outdoors or in your car if the household is busy.

Supervision

Some of our practitioners also provide clinical supervision in the psychological, therapeutic, health and community welfare professions. These practitioners are expert in compassion fatigue, secondary traumatic stress and vicarious trauma in addition to a wide range of other issues.

Will Medicare provide a rebate for Telehealth video/phone consultations?

If you are referred by a medical practitioner and have a valid Mental Health Care Plan you will be eligible for a Medicare rebate for Telehealth online video/phone counselling sessions. Please discuss this with your practitioner for further information.

Will my private health fund cover the cost of Telehealth video/phone consultations?

Some private health funds do cover costs for counselling but it depends on your particular private health cover policy. To be sure, please get in contact with your health care fund and confirm that your counselling session will be covered, please inform them whether the session will be in person, by video or by phone.

Availability of Appointments

Sessions are available Monday to Saturday, including after hours and evening appointment times but please check with the practitioner you choose about their availability as this varies.

Booking an Appointment

Please check our directory of practitioners, choose one, and then get in touch with them to arrange an appointment.