Frequently Asked Questions

What is Therapy?

Therapy is a talking based intervention. Talk therapy is designed to help people work through their concerns. Psychologists apply strategies to help people develop healthier, more effective habits and manage their emotions better.

How long does therapy last?

Psychological therapy can last from one session to several months, and sometimes several years.

This is often guided by what the evidence base recommends for different concerns but also it is an agreement between psychologist and client.

Therapy types?

There are lots of therapy types, however, Psychologists are ethically obliged to use therapy techniques/models that have been found to be effective to facilitate change. I use a range, including: Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution Focussed, Compassion-based therapy, transformational chair work and many more.

Should you go to therapy?

The decision to go to therapy is a big one. Some people can be worried that this means there is something wrong with them or find it embarrassing to talk to a stranger.

Therapy can be hard. It is a commitment to turning up and talking about good things, but also difficult topics that you might not have shared with anyone else.

How to find the right psychologist?

Not every psychologist will be the right fit for you. This can feel frustrating and turn people off continuing to seek treatment. As with every profession, there are some therapists that may not be well-equipped to support everyone.

At Reframe Psychology I believe people should feel empowered to discuss with their psychologist any concerns they have about the therapy or approach. Honesty is an important part of the therapy and it can help resolve issues that may come up or assist in the referral to another professional who may be a better fit.

A bit of information about provisional psychologists

A psychologist with provisional registration is someone who has completed their 5 years of tertiary qualifications and is undertaking a final year of ‘on the job’ supervised practice. Provisional Psychologists have met the registration standards outlined by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and are continually committed to meeting these standards. Once they have completed this year of supervised practice, they are eligible to apply for their general Psychologist registration.

Provisional Psychologists are not eligible for Medicare rebates, so the price to see them is generally lower to reflect this – and we see that as an opportunity to assist people to access affordable mental health care. Provisional Psychologists also don’t have limits of how many sessions per year you can access. All Psychologists (including Provisionals) are qualified, skilled and use evidence-based interventions. All Psychologists get regular supervision. Provisional Psychologists receive regular supervision from an experienced senior Clinical Psychologist.

Like generally registered Psychologists, provisionally registered Psychologists can help support clients with a broad range of presenting concerns. When working with clients, they are doing the same things a fully registered Psychologist would be doing.

In addition to accessing our services at an affordable rate, there is also the ongoing advantage of having a senior Clinical Psychologist overseeing the whole assessment and treatment process to ensure the highest standard of care. Provisional Psychologists are required to do extensive professional development each year, which means they are regularly learning about different ways to help their clients.

All Provisional Psychologists at Reframe Psychology are selected for their competence and skills as Psychologists at the beginning of their psychology career. The title of Provisional Psychologist acknowledges that. We do not compromise on standard of care, regardless of what type of Psychologist you see.

Reach out using the contact us page on our website:https://www.reframepsychology.net/contact-us

Do you need a referral to see a psychologist?

No, you can just make an appointment. However, in Australia a GP can refer you to a Psychologist as part of a Mental Health Care Plan.

How many years does it take to be a Clinical Psychologist?

To become a Clinical Psychologist you will need an undergraduate psychology degree (four years) plus a masters degree (2 years). Then for this area of endorsement you need to undertake a registrar program which involves attending clinical supervision and training. This usually amounts to 8 years of tertiary education and training.

A Clinical Psychologist has expertise in supporting people with acute mental ill-health. They undertake highly specialised training in the assessment, diagnosis, formulation and psychological treatment of mental health, behavioural and emotional disorders across the lifespan.

How can a Clinical psychologist help?

Common reasons people might see a Clinical Psychologist:

• problems in adjusting to major life changes, stress and trauma

• anxiety, worries or fear/phobia

• depressed mood, suicidal thinking

• thoughts to hurt others or yourself on purpose

• too much energy, being unable to sleep, wind down or relax

• obsessional thinking

• feeling on edge or jumpy

• problems with alcohol or drug use

• problems with gambling, gaming or other addictive behaviours

• problems with body image, eating or diet

• poor concentration and attention; hyperactivity

• conditions that start in childhood such as Autism, ADHD, intellectual disability, learning difficulties

• behavioural problems

What can a clinical psychologist provide?

A range of treatments and support, including:

• psychological therapy (talking therapy)

• psychological tests to gain a better understanding of how you are functioning

• practical advice about eating, sleeping, exercise and other ways to manage side effects of mental health problems

• information about your condition, which may help you to understand your symptoms and treatment.