Frequently asked questions
The Lighthouse Clinic is a collaborative psychological practice that provides high quality treatment for simple struggles to complex psychiatric illnesses. Check out our FAQs section below for common queries.
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specialises in the treatment of mental illness. They are often called upon for advice on assessment, diagnosis and treatment when simple approaches have not been successful. They may prescribe medication if required. Due to training they often have skills managing a more complex problems where treatment extends beyond simple psychological measures. A psychologist can equally diagnose and treat mental illness, however the focus is generally on psychotherapy and behavioural interventions.
In most cases a psychologist is a great place to start for assessment and treatment of most psychological problems. In circumstances where there are complex issues involved, medication may be beneficial or a diagnosis is unclear a referral to a psychiatrist may be recommended by your psychologist or GP.
No GP referral is needed to see any of our clinicians however you will need a GP referral if you want to use the medicare system.
Psychiatry: Medicare rebates are available for all psychiatric appointments.
Psychology: If you are eligible for a Mental Health Care Plan this currently allows a maximum of 20 sessions in a 12 month period. If you are eligible for an Eating Disorder Plan you re eligible for up to 40 sessions per year.
Nutrition and Dietetics: If you are eligible for a Chronic Disease Care Plan you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate for up to 5 sessions with a dietitian per calendar year. If you are eligible for an Eating Disorder Plan you are able to claim rebates on up to 20 sessions per year from the date of the care plan.
Private Health funds may cover rebates on psychology and dietetic consultations. Rebates vary greatly depending on your fund and level of cover so please contact your private health insurer directly to enquire about this.
We know that some people find it stressful or overwhelming to make an initial appointment or when attending an appointment for the first time. Please feel free to ask any questions or share any concerns you have as this cam make people feel more at ease.
The first appointment is generally 50-60 minutes. This will be an opportunity for you and your therapist to meet and introduce yourselves. There may be some paperwork to complete regarding confidentiality and consent which your therapist will explain. The therapist will then ask you a series of questions about your background, your current situation and main concerns to learn about you and how they can help. This assessment process allows us to determine how to best progress with treatment and discuss the options with you.
Fees differ depending on whether you are seeing a psychiatrist, psychologist or a dietitian. Please contact us directly for more information about our fees. You can find our more information about Brigid’s fees at www.gentlenutrition.com.au.