FAQs
How do I book an appointment?
The easiest way to book is to click on the Book Now button on the home page. This will take you straight to my calendar where you will be able to see my calendar in real time.
Alternatively, you can either call 0406 466 239 or email emmie@emmienuku.com.au to set up an appointment.
If you are a new client, I will call you prior to your first appointment to introduce myself.
How long is a session?
Each session is 50 minutes long however it is best to allow yourself the full hour, as you will need time to arrange your follow up appointment and payment.
Where are you?
I am located at 3c, 35 Tweed Coast Rd, Cabarita Beach. There is a waiting area just outside of my door, please wait there until I welcome you into the therapy room as I may be with another client when you first arrive.
If you are a parent bringing your child, you are welcome to go for a coffee or walk rather than sitting in the waiting area. Cabarita Beach is a beautiful part of Bundjalung Country and you should take time to look around. I will contact you while in session, if we need you to return earlier to the therapy space.
Do I need a referral to see you?
You do not have to have a referral to see a psychologist. A mental health care plan referral from your GP makes you eligible for a rebate from Medicare. Without the referral your sessions are conducted the exact same way as if you had one.
Do you offer Telehealth?
Yes, I offer sessions via Zoom and phone calls. You can request any session to be online. The pricing and rebate is the same. Some afterhour Telehealth appointments can be made available so please ask if this is something that you require. Please be aware that all afterhour appointments incur additional charges. At this stage, Telehealth has been approved by Medicare until 31st of December, 2021.
How does the Mental Health Care Plan work?
The Mental Health Care Plan provided by your GP entitles you to an initial 6 sessions with a psychologist. After that first 6 sessions you are eligible to return to your GP for a mental health care plan review, this will give you access to a further 4 sessions. Medicare will cover a maximum of 10 sessions per calendar year. The mental health care plans are valid for 2 years from the date it was prepared.
If you use all of your 10 allocated sessions for the calendar year and require further support, you will need to have a review with your referring practitioner (GP, psychiatrist, or paediatrician). Your medical practitioner will assess whether you can benefit from further counselling. If they agree that you do, you will be provided with a referral to access sessions 11-20. You can access the additional sessions once only between 7 August 2020 and 30 June 2022.
You are also able to continue receiving therapeutic support by paying the normal session fee without accessing a Medicare rebate.
What is the cost of a session?
The Australian Psychological Society (APS) recommends a fee of $267 for a 50 – 60 minute session. My standard consultation fee is $185. If you are entitled to a Medicare rebate your rebate will be $88.25 per standard consultation, which means you will be out of pocket $96.75 for a session.
After hours appointments and home visits can be arranged via special request and will incur additional charges. Please speak with me directly if my available clinic times do not suit you and you need ongoing afterhour appointments.
Private Health Insurance
Private health insurers may provide rebates for psychology services – please confirm your level of cover with your insurance provider.
National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)
All NDIS appointments rates have been set and are charged accordingly. This is currently set at $214.41 per session.
How does Medicare work?
To access a rebate from Medicare for psychological therapy you will need a referral from your GP called a mental health care plan. After your session you pay the full fee and then I will request an online Medicare Claim for you. Within 1-3 business days Medicare will transfer the funds into your Medicare registered bank account. Please ensure that your linked bank account number with Medicare is correct to ensure a quick and seamless rebate.
Can I use my private health insurance?
Depending on your insurer and your level of coverage it may be worth giving them a call to find out. I do not have the HICAPS facility at my practice so I can not process private health claims onsite. However, I will provide you with a printed paid receipt to claim directly from your insurance company.
How many sessions will I need?
Therapy is a personal journey and should be based on your own individual needs so there is no set timeframe. I work using a client-led approach and do my best to accommodate your personal needs. Together we will be able to work towards understanding what is the best approach for you.