Fees

Because of the different fee structure, the out-of-pocket expense (the Gap) is nearly the same for clients whether they attend a Psychologist or Clinical Psychologist.

Medicare Rebates

Medicare rebates are: $88.25 per session (with a Psychologist) or $129.55 (with a Clinical Psychologist)

The Medicare rebates are for a maximum of 10 sessions per calendar year. Currently, under Government policy for COVID-19 impact, there are a further 10 rebated sessions available. The individual consultation time is 60 minutes. Medicare rebates are available for individuals who have a Mental Health Care Plan from a GP. If you do have a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP, make sure to either bring it to the first session or have your GP clinic email / fax it in advance to BEACON Psychology, to claim the rebate.

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.

For holders of a (Green) Heath Care card or Senior Aged pension card the concession rates are $190 for session with clinical psychologist and $150 with psychologist.

Payment:  Fees are payable 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 end of your session.

Private Health Cover:  If you have private health insurance, you may be able to access rebates depending on your policy and type of cover. You will have to check your policy or contact your health fund. You cannot use Medicare and private health rebates together.

Cancellations:  50% of the practitioner fee will be charged if appointment is cancelled less than one business day before appointment time or if you don’t turn up for the appointment.

Please Note: The above fee structure is relevant at December 2021 but may be changed without notice at the discretion of BEACON Psychology.