Psychologists are able to provide approved focused psychological strategies for a variety of commonly experienced mental health problems including depression, anxiety, panic, grief, loss and trauma related conditions.

To enable as many people as possible access to Psychological Services, Psychology Matters Newcastle offers the following specific services:

Medicare – Better Access to Mental Health:

If your GP feels that you may benefit from a psychological intervention, they may discuss this with you. To be referred under Medicare your GP will complete an assessment with you and complete a Mental Health Care Plan. The assessment will identify your needs and set goals for your treatment and ongoing management. Your GP will then write a referral to Psychology Matters Newcastle who has accredited clinical and health psychologists who can commence treatment. Clients under the Better Access to Mental Health program are eligible for up to 20 individual sessions per calendar year, however your GP will review your progress after 6 sessions and decide if further sessions are required.

Private Health Insurance:

Prior to booking in for an appointment it is a good idea to check with your private health insurer that your ‘extra’s’ cover includes cover for clinical psychology. It is also worth checking whether you need a referral from your GP as some providers require a GP referral prior to providing their rebate. Ones you have establish you are covered we can make claiming easy for you by claiming your refund through our software and HICAPS terminal at the time of your consultation.

Workers Compensation (SIRA):

Psychological treatment under the State Insurance Regulatory Authority (Workers Compensation) involves a collaborative approach between your Psychologist and the relevant parties relating to your claim (e.g. Insurer, your Nominated Treating Doctor, Rehabilitation Provider) with the aim of improving your recovery. Approval for treatment must be obtained from your Insurer Claims Manager prior to proceeding with any services. This involves Psychology Matters Newcastle liaising with your Insurer to seek approval for an initial assessment.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP):

Employees may access services with Psychology Matters Newcastle if their employer has an EAP agreement with Psychology Matters Newcastle. If your employer does have an EAP agreement with us, there are a number of ways to access EAP, such as self-referral, referral through your manager or supervisor, or referral through your EAP Coordinator. You are not obligated to attend counselling if it is recommended and should only do so voluntarily.

If you are an employer who would like to discuss access to the EAP program at Psychology Matters Newcastle, please call 02 4915 0104 or email us.

Private Client:

As a private client you are able to self-refer. Please call reception for appointments. There are no rebates available for private client referrals.