Deciding to seek support is often the hardest part. The next question, “how do I actually find the right person?”, can feel surprisingly overwhelming. Here’s a practical guide to the questions people most commonly have.
Psychologist or Psychiatrist? What’s the Difference?
- Psychologists are trained in talk-based therapy and cannot prescribe medication.
- Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can prescribe and manage medication, and often work alongside a psychologist rather than instead of one.
Many people benefit from psychological therapy alone. Others benefit from a combination of both, working with a psychologist for therapy and a psychiatrist or GP for medication management.
What Happens at a First Appointment
The first session is usually about gathering context, not diving straight into deep work. Expect to talk about:
- What’s brought you in, and how long it’s been going on
- Relevant history, family background, past experiences, previous support if any
- Your goals for therapy, even if they’re not fully formed yet
Most people leave the first session with a general sense of direction, not a finished plan. That’s normal.
Cost and Medicare Rebates
In Australia, a Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP can provide access to Medicare rebates for a set number of psychology sessions per calendar year. It’s worth discussing this with your GP before your first psychology appointment, as it can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket cost. Psychiatrists and Paediatricians can also provide these referrals.
Will Therapy Actually Help?
This is one of the most common, and understandable, hesitations. A few honest points:
- Therapy tends to work best when there’s a good fit between you and your psychologist, not just the right technique
- Progress is rarely linear, expect some sessions to feel more useful than others
- It’s completely normal to therapy to be a journey
How to Choose Someone Right for You
Consider:
- Their areas of focus (anxiety, trauma, relationships, ADHD, and so on)
- Practical factors like location, availability, and telehealth options
There’s no perfect way to guarantee fit in advance, but most reputable clinics are happy to answer questions before you book, so you can make an informed decision. Our team profile has videos of each of our practitioners so you can get a feel for them
If you’re not sure where to start, our team can help match you with a psychologist suited to what you’re going through. Get in touch to discuss your options.
