BEACON Psychology – Frequently Asked Questions

If your question is not addressed below, please call our friendly staff on:

 (08) 6404 3988 and they will be happy to direct your confidential query.

Do I need a referral to make a booking?
No referral is required to see a psychologist, unless you wish to claim a rebate from Medicare.
When is payment due?
Payment is due at the end of each session. Payment is by Debit Card via eftpos and HICAPS terminals are available which can be used to process your Medicare or private health insurance claims at the time of your session.
How long is a session?
With the exception of the first Couples session, (which is 90 minutes), all sessions at BEACON Psychology practice are 60 minutes.
How much does a session cost?
Fees vary depending on the type of session.  A full list of current fees can be viewed here on the website ‘Fees’ page.
Does Medicare offer a rebate?
Medicare rebates are $93.65 per session with a Psychologist. You must have a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP in order to receive the Medicare rebate. Medicare do not provide rebates for couples or relationship counselling.
Can I use my Private Health insurance?
A HICAPS terminal is available to process your private health claim at the time of your consultation. Please check with your provider for details on your level of cover and eligibility to claim.
What is the cancelation policy?
50% of the booked appointment practitioner’s fee is charged, if you cancel / reschedule your appointment less than one business day before the scheduled appointment time, or if you fail to show up for your appointment.
Is parking available?

Both the Beaumaris Commercial Centre and adjacent Beaumaris Shopping Centre have a large number of parking bays available. Disabled parking bays are also conveniently located.

What's the difference between a Psychologist and a Clinical Psychologist?

What is the difference between a psychologist with general registration and a clinical psychologist?

When you seek help from a psychologist, you might see a psychologist with general registration, or one who also has a specific ‘area of practice endorsement’, such as clinical psychology All psychologists must be registered with the Psychology Board of Australia, meet education, training, ethical and professional standards, and undertake ongoing training and professional development.

Psychologists with general registration (over 60% of Australia’s psychologists) have a minimum of six years of university training and supervised experience and build on that with ongoing education. Psychologist with an area of practice endorsement, such as a Clinical Psychologist, usually has additional university qualifications and supervised training in that specific area. In practice, the type of psychologist who is right for you depends on a range of factors including the area you may need help with, the specific skills and experience of your psychologist and feeling comfortable with your therapist. Whichever type of psychologist, you should expect the same quality of care, ethical behaviour and standards of practice.

EMERGENCY CONTACTS

Call 000 if you feel someone is at risk.

Below are links to some additional Emergency and Support Websites. Click on a link to be directed to the website.

Mental Health Emergency Response 
1300 555 788 (Metro) or 1800 676 822 (Peel)
Lifeline 13 11 14
beyondblue 1300 224 636
Kids Helpline 1800 551 800 
Alcohol and Drug Support Line 
08 9442 5000 or 1800 198 024 (Country)

Parent and Family Drug Support Line
08 9442 5050 or 1800 653 203 (Country)