CLINIC POLICIES + PROCEDURES

YOUR FIRST APPOINTMENT

Prior to your first appointment you will typically receive a text reminder (if you’ve given us a mobile phone number) with your appointment date, appointment time, and details to access our clinic waiting room area. Our text reminders ask that you reply ‘Yes’ to confirm your appointment, or call reception for all queries, cancellations, or rescheduling.  

It is completely normal to feel nervous as your first psychology appointment approaches. After all, you’re visiting a new place, and meeting a new person, for a start. Feel free to arrive approximately 10-15 minutes early, so you can get familiar with the clinic space, and fill out new client paperwork. If you have a referral and/or Mental Health Treatment Plan from your General Practitioner (GP) or another professional, you will need to bring a copy of this, and your Medicare card, to your first appointment.

The first session generally starts with your psychologist’s introduction, and an overview of important general information about psychology, such as confidentiality. Gradually, as a client feels more comfortable in the clinic space and with their psychologist, we can begin to discuss the issues that have brought you to the session. Over time, these discussions help you and your psychologist work together to better understand the basis of any difficulties, identify what maintains the current challenges, and to develop a therapy plan addressing your specific goals.

CANCELLATION POLICY

Mind Matters has a strict two-business-day cancellation policy. If you need to cancel your appointment, please contact us with no less than two business days notice to avoid cancellation fees. This is to ensure that we have sufficient opportunity to offer this appointment to other clients in need of support.

If you have to cancel your appointment at short notice, the following cancellation fees will apply:

  • 0-1 business days or non-attendance: Full session fee payable

  • 1-2 business days notice: 50% of session fee payable

  • Cancellation fees are to be paid prior to attending any future sessions.

Please also note that rebates through Medicare or private health insurance are not available for unattended or cancelled appointments.