Frequently Asked Questions

People seeking psychological assessment or therapy can either self-refer or obtain a referral to see Anna from their GP, Psychiatrist, or Paediatrician. Anna also accepts referrals from eligible referrers within community mental health (both child and adult services). 

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If you are self-referring, please give some background information on you and what you are seeking support for when you reach out. This information can be sent to drAnnaBadcock@protonmail.com. 

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If your GP or another health professional is referring you, they have usually already forwarded your referral directly to your psychologist or given you a copy of the referral to bring along with you.

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Once your referral is received it is reviewed and then Anna will be in touch to discuss next steps or book an appointment.

The wait time can vary depending on what you have been referred for and based on session availability. Usually, referrals for therapy services result in an appointment being booked within 1-4 weeks. Referrals for assessments may have a longer wait time, due to the length of appointments required to complete the assessment interviews. To assist in improving regular access to support, you will be encouraged to book several appointments after your first meeting with Anna to claim a spot in the diary, however these appointments can be changed at a later date if needed.

Medicare rebates are available for psychology services under the Better Access scheme. There are various care plans available that can assist with making therapy more affordable, including Mental Health Care Plans, Eating Disorder Treatment plans, and Chronic Disease Management Plans (note: this plan receives a lower rebate than other care plans listed). 

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• With a Mental Health Care Plan, people can access up to 10 individual sessions in a calendar year with a rebate. The current Medicare rebate is $145.25 (financial year 2025-2026). There will be an out-of-pocket cost for the remainder of the fee.

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• With an Eating Disorder Treatment Plan, people can access up to 40 sessions in a calendar year with the same rebate listed above.

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• Chronic Disease Management Plans allow for 5 individual therapy appointments with a lower rebate and are targeted to the management of a chronic condition.

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Some private health funds will provide partial cover of psychology fees - these vary with your level of cover and the specific fund. Check with your private health fund to see what you are eligible for. 

If you require ongoing support after the end of your care plan this will be discussed during your appointments and a tailored plan meeting your financial and mental health needs will be developed.

Notifying of your need to cancel an appointment as early as possible is greatly appreciated. As a courtesy, an appointment reminder text message will be sent to you 48 hours before that appointment time.

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48 hours cancellation notice is required if you are unable to attend the appointment so that appointment can be offered to someone else. If this notice is not provided by you, a cancellation fee equivalent to the full session fee will be applied. No rebates can be claimed for missed consultations. 

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Of course, life happens and sometimes things happen outside your control. If this is the case, please let Anna know and consideration will be given on a case-by-case basis.