Frequently Asked Questions

  • No. You can see me without a referral, though a GP referral allows you to access Medicare rebates.

  • A mental health care plan (MHCP) is a Medicare scheme designed to support you when you’re facing mental health challenges. A GP can develop a personalised plan with you, that highlights the type of support needed, treatment goals, and connects you with appropriate mental health support. The MHCP allows you to access Medicare rebates when you see a Medicare registered mental health professional such as a psychologist.

    The first step is to book a double appointment with your GP to discuss your mental health concerns. Your GP then typically develops a personalised mental health treatment plan with you that identifies why you are needing mental health support right now and any appropriate referrals.

    If you complete the 6 sessions recommended in the MHCP then you may be eligible for an additional 4-sessions in that calendar year. In this case, you attend a follow up GP appointment for a progress review and to adjust the plan if needed.

  • Your GP may ask for the details of your psychologist:

    The name of your psychologist:

    Jaimee Smith
    General Psychologist
    Provider number: 4166908X

    The name of your psychologist's practice: Jaimee Smith Psychology

    Address of the practice: (even though your sessions will be online): Online Counselling and Therapy 

    Referrals can be sent to: jaimeesmithpsychology@gmail.com

    Phone number: 0473 225 893

    You are also welcome to email it to me yourself if you prefer. 

  • The first session is an opportunity for us to explore what has brought you to therapy. I'll ask you some questions to understand what's been happening for you and I'll encourage you to share as little or as much as you feel comfortable with in this initial session. We may also discuss any hopes or goals you may have for therapy, and it is in this session where you will get a sense of whether the therapeutic relationship will be a good fit for you. 

  • Online therapy allows you to attend from the comfort of your own environment. I use a secure video platform, and I encourage you to choose a private space to ensure that sessions remain confidential. You may find it easier to settle in, being somewhere familiar, perhaps with a cup of tea, a comfortable spot, or even a pet nearby. Many people also appreciate having time to quietly reflect after the session rather than needing to travel home. All you need is a stable internet connection and a tablet or computer. 

  • It is really common to wonder if online therapy will feel awkward in the beginning. Most people though, find that once we start talking, it quickly feels natural and much like talking in person. 

  • Feeling comfortable with your therapist is very important. The first session is an opportunity for us to get a sense of whether working together feels right for you. You're always welcome to ask questions about the process or my approach as well.

  • It is entirely up to individual clients. It is recommended to start with weekly or fortnightly sessions, if possible, as it allows momentum and space to explore what's happening for you. Sessions often reduce in frequency more and more over time and are paced on an individual basis. We can discuss this in your sessions and ensure that we find a pace of therapy that feels supportive and also manageable.