When can I get my first appointment?

For all appointments and enquiries, please contact us on (02) 9119 8777​. ​ MindFrame Psychology’s office contact hours are between 9am – 6pm Monday–Friday. You can generally get your first appointment within 2 weeks of your first contact.

How much will I be charged for consultations?

The cost of each session is $300. If you have been referred through a mental health care plan by your GP then you are eligible for a medicare rebate. Medicare will reimburse up to $137 per session. You do not need a referral to make an appointment. However, to receive a Medicare rebate, you will need to be referred by your GP or psychiatrist under the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS item number 2710). If you have reached the Medicare Safety Net amount you may be rebated 80-100% of the fee. Health Fund Rebates: You may be rebated by your private health fund depending on your level of cover. Medicare does not allow you to claim both a medicare rebate and a heath fund rebate. MindFrame Psychologists are registered with all major health funds. Accepted forms of payment are cash, cheque and EFTPOS, & major credit cards.

What happens during the first appointment and in following appointments?
At MindFrame we understand that it may have taken you a little bit of time to pick up the phone and make an appointment. We know that it can sometimes feel daunting to see a psychologist. We can assure you that we are non-judgemental and warm. In the first appointment we will be keen to understand what you are struggling with. We will help clarify what the issues are,​​ and how these impact you. Treatment begins after this assessment as we are keen to help you feel better ASAP. Treatment sessions draw on psychological concepts and strategies that are supported by research, to assist you to make changes​ you desire​, and ​to maintain these changes.
What is CBT?

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a type of psychological treatment that is one of the most effective treatments for the most common psychological problems such as: depression, anxiety, panic & stress, just to name a few.

CBT has been evaluated in thousands of national and international research studies over decades to produce clinically significant improvements for a wide range of difficulties.

How will CBT help you? CBT equips you with

-Strategies to change your frame of mind -Strategies to change your behaviour -Strategies for coping in more effective & adaptive ways The tools you learn are based on psychological evidence, meaning that scientific research has shown that CBT strategies are effective. CBT strategies can assist you to make meaningful long term changes, improve your mood & reduce anxiety.

How can psychological treatment help?
It can help you develop a better understanding of your concern​s​,​​ ​so that you can deal with them better. A different perspective may be offered to help you think of creative solutions to problems. Psychological treatment can​ ​also ​help you to develop new skills to manage personal issues. Skills​ ​ to help you change​ ​unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviours​​ ​are a focus of sessions.​ We can also help ​with ways of coping with difficult experiences​,​ which may have made life hard to cope with, such as the loss of a loved one, or trauma.
How long will it take before you feel better? And how long do you need to see a psychologist for?
Some people tell us that they feel slightly better after they have made an appointment because they now have a plan in place to help them move forward. Sometimes the first step is the hardest. It is normal to feel that way. Most people will say they feel better after a few sessions. The number of sessions mostly depends on a number of factors. However, our psychologists are highly experienced and can help work through these with you. Psychological research indicates that most people need between 5 and 15 sessions for common difficulties. Usually these sessions start as weekly sessions, and then as you make progress, these can become fortnightly to monthly.
How do I get to St James Trust Building?
Parking can be difficult to find around the office on weekdays due to loading zones. Weekend street parking is easy, however, during the week, the most convenient option is to use public transport. The closest train station is Town Hall. Use the Park street exit. Many of the City buses stop right out front of St James Trust Building at 185 Elizabeth St. This bus stop is right out front of the Bambinis restaurant. Please do not confuse the St James Trust Building with St James Building.
How is my relationship with a psychologist different from my relationship with a friend?
The therapeutic relationship is different from other relationships. Psychologists are bound by a professional ethical code of conduct governed by the NSW government and the Australian Psychological Society,​ with strict boundaries. Although,​​ ​within the session there is a level of friendliness, having a friendship outside sessions is not part of the process. Therefore, psychologists do not become their clients’ friends.