What to expect

If you haven’t seen a psychologist before, it is natural to feel unsure before your first appointment.

The first appointment is an opportunity for you to tell me about yourself and share what you are struggling with. I will explain my approach and support you to decide what you would like to do next.

You may feel OK after just one session, or you may want to come back for more sessions. We go at your pace.

Betina is a neuroaffirming psychologist and uses flexible rooms to make the therapy space as comfortable as it can be for each individual client.

Below are answers to some common questions people have. If you have any questions just ask!

  • Current clients can text or email Dafna psychology, or use the Bookings button on this webpage.

    New clients need to text, email or call Dafna Psychology to discuss availability and answer any questions you may have.

  • Anyone can see a psychologist at any time - there is no need for a referral.

    If you choose to get a referral and a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP) you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate of $96.65 per therapy session. Medicare currently subsidises up to 10 psychology sessions per calendar year.

    The Medicare rebate applies to any psychology sessions from the date of referral by your GP or psychiatrist. So you will need to arrange this referral with your GP or psychiatrist before your first psychology appointment if you want it ensure you receive the Medicare rebate from the first session.

    Note that Medicare does not provide rebates for neuropsychological assessments.

  • All therapy sessions are scheduled for 50 minutes duration.

    Standard fee is $215. An additional $20 fee applies for appointments starting after 5pm.

    Payment is due at the end of each session, and is made through the secure Halaxy Paypal payment system. If you have a MHTP, Medicare rebates (if eligible) can be electronically lodged with Medicare on your behalf. More information about how Halaxy keeps your credit card details secure can be found here.

    Invoices can also be sent where organisations or insurance providers have agreed to pay for the sessions. This will need to be arranged before your first appointment.

    Neuropsychological assessments have a different fee structure. Please contact us for further information.

  • If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please contact us no later than 48 hours prior to your appointment. This is to ensure that we have sufficient notice to offer this time to other clients who are on a waiting list and in need of support.

    In the event that less that 48 hours notice is given to cancel or reschedule an appointment, or you fail to attend an appointment, a $150 fee may be charged (unless there are extenuating circumstances).

    Medicare does not cover cancelled appointments.

  • Yes! We are experienced in providing on-line therapy and assessments.

  • I believe that neurodiversity is natural and should not be stigmatised. I tend to see ‘differences’ not ‘deficits’. Often our differences mean that navigating the world is really hard and unfair, and usually takes a lot of energy. I try to create a space where my clients don’t feel they need to pretend to be someone they are not. I like to keep things authentic!!

    So clients are welcome to sit or lie down on the couch or floor, to walk or stretch. Fidgets are provided in the room, or clients bring their own.

    Tea, coffee and water is available, or clients bring their own drinks or snacks.

    There is no expectation about eye contact or making ‘chit chat’ as we walk down the corridor if it’s not your thing! And you can tell me about your SpIns, as long as you are OK with me politely interrupting if we are running out of time :-)

    There is no presumption about gender, sexuality or preferred pronouns or name. You let me know on the intake form what your preferences are.

    Room lighting can be easily adjusted and rooms do not have strong scents.

    Sessions can be provided using secure telehealth (as long as the client has a comfortable and private space available).

    If your preferences aren’t included here, email me and we can work something out.