Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the questions our psychologists get asked most often. If your questions are not included, please contact us.

Can I claim a Medicare rebate?

Eligible clients can claim a Medicare rebate for psychology appointments at Therapy Toolbox.

Most people access the rebate by asking their GP for a Mental Health Treatment Plan and referral. Your initial referral may cover up to six sessions, with further sessions available following a review, up to a total of ten individual psychology sessions per calendar year.

As of 1 July 2026, the Medicare rebate for a standard session of 50 minutes with a registered psychologist is $101.55. This does not cover the full session cost, so an out-of-pocket gap will still apply.

Please speak with your GP or contact our team if you need further information about eligibility.

What is the difference between a psychologist, psychotherapist and counsellor? Which one is for me?

A psychologist is much more than someone who simply listens and offers advice. Psychologists are nationally registered health professionals with at least six years of university education and supervised professional training in human behaviour, mental health, psychological assessment and evidence-based treatment.

Psychologists are trained to look beneath the immediate symptoms and develop a detailed understanding of what may be contributing to a person’s difficulties, what is maintaining those difficulties and what is most likely to help. Depending on their experience and area of practice, a psychologist may:

assess and diagnose psychological and mental health conditions
conduct, interpret and report on psychological and psychometric testing
develop an individualised psychological formulation and treatment plan
provide evidence-based therapies for both common and complex difficulties
measure progress and adjust treatment when an approach is not working
prepare psychological reports and collaborate with GPs, psychiatrists, paediatricians, schools and other support services

Counsellors and psychotherapists can also provide valuable emotional support and may be highly skilled within their particular areas of practice. The important distinction is that the title psychologist is legally protected in Australia. Psychologists must meet strict national requirements for registration, professional conduct, ongoing education and safe, ethical practice.

This combination of scientific training, clinical judgement, assessment skills and therapeutic expertise allows psychologists to do more than provide a supportive conversation. They can help identify what is happening, explain why it may be happening and provide a structured, evidence-based pathway towards meaningful change.

Can you help if my condition is not listed on your website?

Very possibly. The conditions listed on our website are examples and are not a complete list of the presentations our psychologists can assess and support.

Our psychologists work with children, adolescents and adults experiencing a broad range of mental health, emotional, behavioural and neurodevelopmental concerns. These may include anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, stress, burnout, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), autism, ADHD, emotional regulation difficulties and relationship concerns, plus many other challenges.

At Therapy Toolbox, we understand that people are so much more than a diagnosis. Symptoms often overlap, and many people contact us before they know exactly what is happening. You do not need a confirmed diagnosis to seek psychological support. Our psychologists can help you understand your experiences, consider whether a psychological assessment- including an autism or ADHD assessment- may be helpful, and recommend a personalised, evidence-based approach.

At Therapy Toolbox, we treat the person, not just the diagnosis.

Does Psychology actually work? Does it change anything?

Yes. Evidence-based psychological therapy has been shown to help people improve their mental health, manage difficult symptoms and make meaningful, lasting changes.

Psychology is not simply talking about your problems. Your psychologist will help you understand the patterns affecting your wellbeing and develop practical strategies tailored to your needs and goals.

Progress can take time and depends on several factors, including the right therapeutic approach, a good relationship with your psychologist and your active participation. The tools and insights you develop through therapy are yours to keep and use long after your sessions have ended.

Do you offer Telehealth appointments?

Yes. Therapy Toolbox offers both office-based and secure telehealth psychology appointments, allowing you to access professional support from the comfort of your own home.

Online psychology can be especially helpful for people living in rural or regional areas, those with mobility or transport difficulties, and anyone who finds attending a clinic inconvenient. We also offer face-to-face appointments for clients who prefer to meet in person.

Telehealth is suitable for many psychological services, although some assessments and individual needs may be better supported in person. Please contact us to discuss which option is right for you.

What is the difference between a general psychologist and a clinical psychologist?

Both general and clinical psychologists are highly trained, fully registered mental health professionals.

General psychologists typically have broad experience working with people in private practice and community settings. They assess and treat a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, autism, stress and relationship difficulties. The word “general” describes the breadth of their practice.

Clinical psychologists have completed an area of specialised training in clinical psychology. Their training has more emphasis on severe mental health conditions, and they are often found working in hospital settings, although some also work in private practice.

For most people seeking psychological therapy, the psychologist’s experience, approach and suitability for their particular needs matter more than the title.