Frequently Asked Questions

Appointment length varies depending on the service and clinician. 

• Psychology sessions are typically around 50 minutes 
• Psychiatry and neurology appointments vary depending on whether the appointment is an initial consultation or review 

Our administrative team can confirm the expected appointment length when booking. 

The first appointment usually focuses on understanding your concerns, discussing relevant background information, and identifying goals for support. 

Your clinician may also discuss possible treatment options or recommendations. 

Our team can help guide you toward a clinician who may be suitable for your needs. 

When requesting an appointment, you can also indicate any preferences for a clinician. 

Yes. Finding the right fit is important in healthcare. If you feel another clinician may be more suitable, our team can help arrange this where possible. 

Appointments require advance notice if you need to cancel or reschedule. 

Full details are outlined in our Scheduling & Attendance Policy. 

Some services require a referral from your GP or specialist. 

For example, psychology services accessed through a Mental Health Care Plan and psychiatry consultations with the option to claim a Medicare rebate typically require a referral. 

If you are unsure whether a referral is needed, our team will be happy to assist. 

Yes. Telehealth allows patients to access psychological therapy and counselling support online with qualified clinicians, depending on the service required.

Many people search for online counselling or online therapy when looking for mental health support to fit around work, family or other responsibilities. Or when access to supports in their local area is not readily available. 

Telehealth appointments provide a secure way to access these services with qualified clinicians, without needing to travel to a clinic. 

For many individuals, telehealth offers a flexible and effective way to receive professional support from home.

Research indicates that telehealth appointments and online therapy can be as effective as in-person care for many mental health concerns when delivered by qualified clinicians.

Telehealth enables individuals to access professional support from home while maintaining the same clinical standards as in face-to-face consultations.

If you would like to request a telehealth appointment, please complete our Appointment Request Form, and a member of our team will contact you to arrange a suitable time.

You may also wish to visit our Team page to learn more about our clinicians and their areas of expertise.

Yes. Mind-Care offers telehealth appointments across Australia, allowing individuals to access psychology, psychiatry and other mental health services online without needing to travel to a clinic. This can be particularly helpful for people living in regional or remote areas.

A telehealth appointment is similar to attending a session in person. At the scheduled time, you will connect with your clinician through a secure video link.

During your appointment, your clinician may:

• Discuss your current concerns and goals
• Review relevant medical or treatment history
• Provide therapeutic support or treatment recommendations
• Develop a plan for ongoing care if appropriate

Your clinician will guide the conversation and ensure you have the opportunity to ask questions or raise any concerns.

Before your appointment, it can help to:

• Choose a quiet and private space where you feel comfortable speaking
• Ensure you have a stable internet connection
• Use a device with a camera and microphone, such as a smartphone, tablet, or computer
• Test your device and internet connection ahead of time

We recommend joining your appointment a few minutes before the scheduled time to ensure everything is working smoothly.

Many telehealth appointments are eligible for Medicare rebates when you have a valid referral from your GP, such as a Mental Health Care Plan.

If you are unsure whether you require a referral for your appointment, our administrative team will be happy to assist.

Telehealth is appropriate for many appointments, however there are some situations where an in-clinic consultation may be recommended to ensure the most appropriate and effective care.

Telehealth may not be suitable if:

You do not have access to a private space
Appointments involve discussing personal information, so it is important that you are able to speak openly in a quiet and private environment where you feel comfortable.

Your appointment requires in-person assessment or examination
Some assessments, tests, or procedures may require an in-clinic appointment so that your clinician can complete a thorough evaluation.

There are technology or connectivity limitations
A stable internet connection and access to a device with a camera and microphone are important for telehealth. If technology issues make communication difficult, an in-person appointment may be recommended. In some instances we can also facilitate phone only appointments if preferred.

Your clinician recommends in-person care
In some circumstances, particularly where more comprehensive assessment, monitoring, or support is required, your clinician may advise that an in-clinic appointment would be more appropriate.

If telehealth is not suitable for your situation, our team will help arrange an in-clinic appointment at our Charlestown clinic wherever possible.

If you are unsure whether telehealth is appropriate for your appointment, our administrative team will be happy to assist.