Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect?
Our first appointment is essentially an assessment. The goal is to get to know each other, and then identify the areas of concern before discussing strategies for working towards positive change. If it is helpful for you, you might like to bring a list of concerns, questions, or thoughts you have, to our first appointment. I do understand that not all clinicians suit each individual, but I believe that honest beginnings make for positive and healthy outcomes.
Do I need to bring anything with me?
If you have a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP, please bring that with you, as Adam will need a copy on file to be able to use it. There is no other requirement for you to bring anything. If it helps you, please feel free to bring a notepad and pen to jot down reminders, notes, or thoughts during our appointment.
Do you set homework?
Sometimes! Homework is often an important part of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, and my therapeutic approach. It gives you the chance to practise and become confident in your new skills, by thinking and behaving in different ways. Adam may also ask permission to email you details after some appointments if a new form of homework was agreed upon.
Do I need a referral?
You can make an appointment directly with Adam if you prefer. However, if you see your GP first, and request a Mental Health Care Plan and a referral, this gives you access to ten appointments with a psychologist per year. Any sessions with a valid GP Mental Health Plan will have a rebate. You may also choose to claim via your Private Health fund if applicable. Adam always recommends contacting your Private Health provider to check if your cover includes Psychology prior to appointments.
Can you come to me?
Yes, I am able to visit you at your private location, or anywhere within local public community as therapeutically appropriate.
Please contact me for more details.
Why would I need a community appointment?
For some individuals, traveling to appointments is not possible for a variety of reasons, such as access, disability, or the psychological concerns themselves, such as phobias. Additionally, it may be therapeutically beneficial for appointments to be held at a separate location outside of the clinic. For these reasons, I am able to offer Community appointments, where I can visit your private residence, or an appropriate public place (e.g., a jetty, or the airport) to conduct psychological therapy such as behaviour modification. Please contact me if you would like to discuss how a Community appointment could work for you.
Do you bulk bill?
Adam does not run a bulk billing practice. Please reach out to me via my email should you wish to discuss.
Do you prescribe medication?
No, I do not prescribe medication. My therapeutic techniques are focussed solely on psychological therapies. I have strong professional connections with general practice, and this means I am able to work closely with medical practice to achieve the best coordinated outcomes for you.
Can I call you in an emergency?
I am not able to provide crisis care. However, I will always try to make time for an appointment as soon as possible in these instances. Please contact me and we can arrange an appointment. If you need assistance now, here is a list of South Australian specific crisis care numbers and resources: https://www.sa.gov.au/topics/emergencies-and-safety/crisis-helplines.