Frequently asked Questions

Can I see a psychologist without a referral?

Yes, you can. You can self-refer for psychology treatment; however, you will be ineligible to claim a Medicare benefit for the service. (See our Information page for further details)

I have a Mental Health Plan but the psychologist it has been directed to is not taking clients, do I need to return to my GP for a new plan?

Due to the ongoing and consistent care that a Psychologist needs to provide clients, there are often times that a new client cannot be engaged, and a recommendation will be made for you to see another Psychologist at the practice. You will be able to use your mental health plan with any of our Psychologists. It is not necessary return to your GP but we advise you to contact your GP as a courtesy to advise if you have booked with a different psychologist.

I have been seeing another psychologist with an existing Mental Health Care Plan; can I use this plan at Geelong Psychology Group?

Yes, provided you have still have sessions available on the plan and have not exceeded the maximum of 10 sessions per calendar year. We will ask you to contact the GP who provided the original Mental Health Plan and have a copy faxed to our office.

Can I claim a psychology session through both Medicare and Private Health?

No, you may only claim from either Medicare or a Private health fund for each session. Private Heath will not contribute towards the ‘gap’ between the Medicare rebate and the consultation fees.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychologists specialise in providing non-medical psychological treatment. Psychologists are experts in human behaviour, having studied the brain, memory, learning, human development and the processes determining how people think, feel, behave and react. Psychologists apply their expertise using reliable and scientifically supported methods. Psychological treatments are widely used to assist individuals and families and can also help groups and organisations.

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialise in Mental Health. They can make medical and psychological assessments, conduct medical tests and prescribe medication. Just like psychologists, some psychiatrists also use psychological treatments like Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) or Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)

My doctor has recommended Janine Lucas; does this guarantee I will be able to book an appointment with her?

Janine Lucas is the founding Director of Janine Lucas & Colleagues Psychology Services., we now operate as Geelong Psychology Group) and as a long-established Psychology practice many GP’s have typically referred to the practice but don’t always specifically mean to refer to Janine but rather to Janine and Colleagues.

Janine is happy to take on new referrals when possible, however Janine has limited availability and there will often be a wait for new clients. At times when the wait is significant, Janine will advise our administration staff to offer a placement with a colleague who has availability to provide ongoing treatment.

In her role as one of the Company Directors, Janine provides clinical supervision to the many of the staff at Janine Lucas & Colleagues and in this way, she can ensure that all clients are receiving the very best care and up to date treatments at all times.

What is the difference between a General psychologist and a Clinical psychologist?

All psychologists in Australia hold general registration with the Psychology Board of Australia, meeting high standards in education, training, supervised practice, ethical and professional standards, and ongoing professional development.

When you seek help from a psychologist, you might see a psychologist with general registration, or one who also has a specific ‘area of practice endorsement’ (such as clinical psychology, health psychology or sport and exercise psychology). A psychologist with an area of practice endorsement usually has additional university qualifications and supervised training in that specific area. Whichever type of psychologist, you should expect the same quality of care, ethical behaviour and standards of practice.

What is a Provisional psychologist?

A provisional psychologist is a psychologist who holds a provisional registration from AHPRA who is currently completing advanced postgraduate training in psychology. Our provisional psychologists have undergone a minimum 4 years of study in psychology and have additional experience and training. Provisional psychologists are supervised by a fully qualified, experienced clinical psychologist within our practice. (Please note: Supervision is a formal arrangement for therapists to discuss their work regularly with someone who is experienced in both therapy and supervision. The supervisor is not present during your therapy session)

Is your organisation registered with NDIS?

No, unfortunately due to the rising costs and demands of maintaining the NDIS registration, we have made the decision not to renew our registration as of 2021.

Despite no longer being NDIS registered, our providers are highly skilled, passionate and dedicated to making life better for their clients.

Your NDIS plan must be Self-Managed or Plan Managed to access our providers, as we are no longer able to claim our invoices directly from the NDIS.

Do you Bulk bill?

As a private practice we do not offer bulk billing.

Geelong Psychology Group

03 5221 7197

info@geelongpsychologygroup.com.au