ONLINE THERAPY
WHY ONLINE THERAPY?
There are many benefits for online therapy. Some of these include:
+ Convenience and accessibility of sessions
+ Familiar and comfortable environment
+ Ease of scheduling around other commitments
+ No commute!
Most importantly, research has shown that online therapy can be as effective as face to face therapy.
HOW TO SET UP YOUR ENVIRONMENT FOR ONLINE THERAPY?
Download and register a Zoom account.
I recommend using headphones for clarity.
Find a comfortable place to sit with good lighting (your couch is probably ideal).
Ensure you have adequate privacy (visual and auditory).
Ensure your device is adequately charged or able to be plugged in where you’re sitting.
Ensure your mobile phone is within hand reach, on silent and adequately charged, as part of the backup plan if the connection breaks.
Test your video and audio connection.
Ensure children and pets are catered for and anticipated distractions (like grocery deliveries) are managed so they won’t disrupt your session.
Have a glass of water nearby and maybe some tissues.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR ONLINE THERAPY
ONLINE FEES
My fees for online therapy are the same for in person therapy. This reflects that online sessions utilise the same amount of time, the same amount of investment from myself and the same amount of overheads (e.g. my lovely admin team are still involved).
ARE ONLINE SESSIONS ELIGIBLE FOR PRIVATE HEALTH INSURANCE REBATES?
Eligibility for private health insurance rebates is dependent on your level of cover, and if your insurer covers telehealth.
Please contact your insurer to confirm.
ARE ONLINE SESSIONS ELIGIBLE FOR MEDICARE REBATES?
I am registered with Medicare as a clinical psychologist.
Eligibility for Medicare is dependent on receiving a Mental Health Treatment Plan referral from a GP, and Medicare supporting telehealth for clinical psychology services.
At the time of writing, Medicare has approved telehealth clinical psychology until December 2025.
HOW DO I PAY FOR ONLINE SESSIONS?
Clients have the option to pay via direct deposit. An invoice will be provided for each session.
Alternatively, an admin team member will contact you to pay via credit card over the phone.
WHAT IS THE CANCELLATION POLICY FOR ONLINE SESSIONS?
A late cancellation fee will apply for cancellations made before the day of the appointment (i.e. any cancellation that occurs after 5pm the business day before the scheduled appointment). The fee will be equal to the session fee.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I HAVE IT/CONNECTION ISSUES?
If there are any problems with the connection, Hayley will keep trying to reach you via Zoom for five minutes. If she is unable, she will call your mobile number. Sessions can also be conducted via phone as standard if you prefer.