Making an Appointment
Self-initiated appointments
Clients do not need a referral from their GP or psychiatrist to make an appointment. If you have private health insurance and are covered for psychology you may be able to claim a rebate from your private health insurer.
Referrals and Mental Health Care Plans
An appointment can be made with your GP to discuss your needs and if you are eligible for a Mental Health Care Plan. If approved, you may then be able to access a rebate through Medicare.
Working with your Doctor and other Allied Health Professionals
Brigid can work with your doctor and/or other allied health professional with your permission to give you the the best care and treatment
Pricing
What are your rates?
Sessions are priced between $275 and $290 each. All sessions are 50-60 minutes duration unless otherwise specified as some treatments require longer sessions.
Brigid will discuss the price, type and duration of sessions at the time of enquiring about booking an appointment and/or at the time of consultation.
Please note the Australian Psychology Society (APS) currently recommends rates of $300 for 45-60 mins.
Medicare Rebates
Can I receive a medicare rebate on a Mental Health Care Plan?
Yes, if you have a valid Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) and a referral from your GP, you are eligible for up to 10 psychology sessions each calendar year through Medicare.
How can I get a Mental Health Care Plan?
Firstly, you will need to make an appointment with your GP to be assessed for a GPMHCP. Please ensure you let the receptionist know that you’d like to be assessed so they can book a longer appointment for you.
During your appointment, let your GP know if you’d like to be referred to Brigid Ryan Clinical Psychology, so they can provide a referral letter addressed correctly.
Your GP may send the referral letter directly to the practice, or you may be required to send a copy to the practice. Please check with your GP at the time to ensure we get a copy.
It’s also important to ensure that the referral letter pre-dates the first session, or you won’t be eligible for discounts via the MHCP program for that session.
How much will Medicare rebate me if I have a Mental Health Care Plan?
The current rebate amount for a service provided by a clinical psychologist is $136.35, which will be refunded via Medicare after your appointment.
How many sessions can I get per calendar year under the MHCP?
You are eligible for 10 sessions per calendar year as part of your MHCP. If the new calendar year has started, you can obtain a new referral for up to six more sessions, even if it hasn’t been a full year since your first MHCP.
Please be aware that some GPs may not realise you are entitled to more sessions before your first year on your MHCP is complete. We recommend sharing the following resources if they believe you need to wait a full year:
Location
Where is the practice located?
Brigid Ryan Clinical Psychology is located in Deakin Canberra, at Suite 7, 32 Thesiger Court, Deakin, ACT 2600.
Do you offer Telehealth Appointments?
Telehealth is available upon request. Please let Brigid know your preferences when making an appointment.
Cancellations
Cancellation Policy
If you are unable to attend your appointment, please contact Brigid by email or mobile to advise as soon as possible so that we are able to offer the time to another client.
A cancellation fee (full session fee) will apply if you cancel within 48 business hours of your booked appointment.