What is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker?

Accredited Mental Health Social Workers are registered providers with Medicare Australia. An Accredited Mental Health Social Worker is eligible to provide services through the Better Access to Mental Health Care and Chronic Diseases Management programs. They are also providers in the Access to Allied Psychological Services (ATAPS) program. Accredited Mental Health Social Workers have experience in assessing and treating people who have mental disorders such as Depression,Anxiety,Suicidal thoughts, Relationship problems, Life crises, Adjustment issues, Trauma and Family conflict. Accredited Mental Health Social Workers help individuals to resolve their presenting psychological problems but also the social and environmental problems that usually accompany them.

When should I see a counsellor?

People seek counselling for a variety of reasons, and at different stages in their lives. There is no rule or set structure for when someone should speak with a counsellor. Some of the most common reasons are for treatment of depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, low self esteem or lacking motivation. People can attend counselling alone, with their partners (relationship counselling) or with their families (family counselling).

How do I know if the counsellor is professional?

We abide by a code of conduct (ethics) that is outlined by The Australian Association of Social Workers. We have professional indemnity insurance We are a financial registered member of The Australian Association of Social Workers.

Who will you share my information with?

All personal information gathered by the counsellor during the provision of the counselling service will remain confidential and secure except when: 1. It is subpoenaed by a court, or 2. Failure to disclose the information would place you or another person at risk

Do I need a referral from my doctor to see a counsellor?

No referral is necessary. However you may qualify for Medicare rebates under the Better Access to Mental Health Care. This is accessed via a GP, Psychiatrist or Paediatrician and is called a Mental Health Care Plan. This allows you or your child to have 10 counselling sessions and 10 group therapy sessions over a calendar year. This plan is usually helpful for people experiencing Anxiety and Depression, Family conflict, Problems at school and Marital difficulties, to name a few.

How can I get to see a Mental Health Social Worker

Speak to your GP about organising a Mental Health Care Plan. If eligible your GP will give you a referral which would allow you to have up to 10 counselling sessions in a calendar year. Call our office to make an appointment. You can also see the Social Worker without having a Mental Health Care Plan. There will be cost involved.

What times can we make an appointment to see a counsellor?

We aim to provide the best service for you which means that we offer a range of times such as Saturdays, weekdays, after hours and normal office hours.

How long does a counselling appointment go for?

Most appointments are for 50 mins as we find this best meets the therapeutic needs of our clients.

How many sessions will it take to solve my problems?

On average people begin to see positive change after 4 to 6 sessions. This variation occurs for several reasons, firstly the nature of peoples´ problems; secondly the amount of time the problems have existed; and thirdly the effort and willingness people are prepared to apply to resolving the problems.

My partner doesn’t want to come to counselling, how do I get him/her to come with me to counselling?

If your partner refuses to attend counselling, it is important that you start easing your pain and stress. One positive step is for you to attend counselling. By doing so, you will be demonstrating to your partner that the relationship is important and that you are taking the issues seriously. You will gain strategies and skills towards resolving the issues and most importantly you will have support. As changes occur within the relationship, your partner may begin to see the positives within the relationship and then decide to join you in couples counselling

What happens if I need to change my appointment time or cancel?

Should you need to change or cancel your appointment, we ask that you inform us or your counsellor as soon as possible. Session fees may be charged to you if the session is not cancelled at least 24 hours before your scheduled appointment time.