Everyone goes through challenging situations in life, and while you may have successfully navigated through other difficulties you’ve faced, there’s nothing wrong with seeking out extra support when you need it. In fact, therapy is for people who have enough self-awareness to realize they need a helping hand, and that is something to be admired. You are taking responsibility by accepting where you’re at in life and making a commitment to change the situation by seeking therapy. Therapy provides long-lasting benefits and support, giving you the tools you need to avoid triggers, re-direct damaging patterns, and overcome whatever challenges you face.
No, you do not need a referral to come see a therapist at Riverlands Therapy Services. Many people make the decision to see a psychologist themselves without consulting a GP or other health professional. You may, however, be eligible for a rebate through Medicare and if you want to access this rebate you will need a referral from your GP, psychiatrist or paediatrician. This is something we would recommend.
Depending on your particular needs, the average number of sessions varies from 8 to 15. However, some clients only need 1 to 5 sessions if their issues are very specific. Others choose to have more long-term therapy with possibly less frequent sessions over a longer period of time. The time you’ll need in therapy can be discussed at any time with your therapist in your and there is no commitment. With some initial guidance, you make appointments as you wish.
Any information that identifies you or that you give to your therapist will be treated with utmost privacy and respect. Information about you is kept confidential and is only disclosed to additional parties with your prior consent. The only time a therapist is required to disclose information about you is if it is demanded by law or if there is reasonable evidence to believe that someone is at-risk of harm if we do not divulge the information to the appropriate authorities.
All provide professional services in the area of mental health but differ with regard to education and training as well as the services provided.
Psychologists are trained to understand the causes and maintaining factors for human behaviour, in theories relating to managing and changing human behaviour and in the assessment and treatment of psychological difficulties. They have completed a four-year psychology degree and either a two-year Masters degree or an APS approved two-year supervision program. They are trained to evaluate research on the effectiveness of various therapy models and to be able to apply these therapies in a flexible way to benefit the individual.
Clinical Psychologists have completed a specific Clinical Masters Degree, or equivalent, after their four year degree in Psychology, in addition to possessing the skills listed above. The Clinical Masters is focused on clinical assessment and intervention of DSM-5 diagnosable psychological and mental health conditions.
Psychiatrists are medical professionals with general medical training who have specialised in mental health, in the same way that other medical professionals may specialise in various forms of surgery or in general practice. Psychiatrists therefore specialise in prescribing medication which can assist in managing mental illnesses. Some psychiatrists deliver therapies that they have been trained in.
Social Workers have completed a degree in Social Work, and can occupy a variation of roles, including casework, counselling, advocacy, community engagement and development and social action to address issues at both the personal and social level. Underpinned by theories of social work, social sciences, humanities and indigenous knowledge, social work engages people and structures to address life challenges and enhance well-being.
In some cases a combination of medication and therapy is the right course of action for some individuals. Clinical research and experience shows that medication can be highly beneficial for many adults, as well as at times, adolescents and children. It is well established that the long-term solution to mental and emotional problems and the pain they cause cannot be solved solely by medication. Instead of just treating the symptom, therapy addresses the cause of our distress and the behaviour patterns that curb our progress. You can best achieve sustainable growth and a greater sense of well-being with an integrative approach to wellness. Whilst we cannot prescribe these medications at Riverlands Therapy Services, we often work alongside GP’s and/or Psychiatrists to determine eligibility and collaborate with regards to efficacy of medication regimes. As this is often a difficult issue for people to consider, we are here to discuss this option with you throughout your course of therapy should it be something that may assist your personal situation.
We understand that occasionally appointments need to be cancelled or rescheduled due to unforeseen circumstances. We request that you provide at least 48 hours-notice (i.e., two business days) if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment to allow time for the appointment to be offered to another client. If less than 48 hours-notice is given then the full fee for the session will apply. This fee will have to be paid before a subsequent session is booked. It is important to note that Medicare and Private Health Funds do not provide rebates for cancelled appointments.