Telehealth Counselling
Telehealth sessions are conducted via video, or phone, enabling individuals to access mental health support anywhere.
For Australian citizens who may use Medicare subsidy for the service, individuals attend a telehealth session while overseas are unable to claim the Medicare subsidy rebate for that session.
Delivering a telehealth session
Video sessions:
- A video link will be sent to your email prior to your session. Your psychologist may also ring you on your mobile if they are unable to connect with you online.
- Click on the link provided will bring you into a private and securely confidential chat space between you and your psychologist.
Phone sessions:
- Your psychologist will ring you at the time of your appointment. The session will be conducted over the phone.
Setting up a safe space for the telehealth session
Ensure you are in a space where you feel comfortable to disclose private information and discuss your concerns.
We recommend a space without external distractions and any third persons whom may interrupt.
- Home setting: Consider your own room with a closed door. If possible, advise your household members prior to the session that you will be on an important call, so they will not disturb.
- Office setting: Consider booking a private room or a conference room where possible. Let your colleagues know prior to the session that you will be on an important call, so they will not disturb.
- Other settings: If you are unable to find a safe space at home or office, check if there may be a space where you can be alone. For instance, your car or a private spot at a local park where you will not be overheard by others.
- Concerns for interruption: Discuss with your psychologist in advance about strategies to manage situations where a third person entering the chat space. You may agree on a specific word or phrase to indicate it is inappropriate or unsafe to continue the conversation.
Suitability for individuals
Telehealth may not be suitable for some individuals, such as:
- Locations with poor internet connection or reception.
- Individuals who prefer in-person interaction to build the rapport.
- Victims of family violence.
- Individual conditions that require close and direct intervention.
- Individuals, including children and adolescents, who may not be able to express precisely via verbal communication. Body language and non-verbal cues are also very important.