Psychiatrists and clinical psychologists practice in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of mental health problems. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who has specialized in psychiatry, and can therefore prescribe medication. A clinical psychologist has been trained in psychology, usually completing a Bachelor (Honours) degree in psychology followed by a postgraduate specialization in clinical psychology. Clinical psychologists do not prescribe medication. They use other evidence-based psychological treatment approaches.
Forensic psychology is the practice of psychology in relation to the law, such as providing psychological services for offenders and victims of crime. Forensic psychologists often provide consultative services for psycho-legal matters.
No. You do not need a referral, you just need to call to make an appointment.
However, if you would like to access clinical psychological services under the
Medicare scheme, you will need a referral and an item 2710 mental health plan
from your GP to be eligible for rebates.
A full fee schedule is available on request. As a general guide, a standard one hour consultation for an individual is AUS$120. Under the Medicare scheme, new rates apply, but with substantial rebates. APS rates (AUS$192 per hour) apply for psycho-legal and organizational services unless otherwise negotiated. GST is added to report preparation and other non-treatment services.
Psychological services provided are bound by the legal requirements of the National Privacy Principles from the Privacy Amendment (Private Sector) Act 2000. Each client file includes information that is relevant to the psychological service being provided. A copy of Dr O’Donnell’s Policy for Management of Personal Information is available for all clients. Personal information gathered by Dr O’Donnell during the provision of psychological services will remain confidential and secure except when:
1. It is subpoenaed by a court, or
2. Failure to disclose the information would place you or another person at risk; or
3. Your prior approval has been obtained to
a) provide a written report to another professional or agency (e.g., a GP or a lawyer); or
b) discuss the material with another person (e.g., a parent or employer); or
c) be included as an anonymous participant in research.
How can I
pay my account?
An itemised invoice will be sent to your nominated address after your consultation. Account payment by cash, cheque or money order is required within 14 days. Direct credit payment facilities are also available on request. Overdue accounts will attract a 10% late fee, and be forwarded to the Tasmanian Collection Service if necessary. Credit card and EFTPOS facilities are not available.
Can I get a private health insurance rebate?
Private health insurance members may be entitled to fee rebates for psychological treatment services, depending on insurance policy and level of coverage.
Castray Esplanade is the winding
road that passes between the
Does the clinic have free parking, bus access, and disabled
access?
Yes. Free parking is available along the access road and
directly in front of the clinic. Free parking is also available in the adjacent
CSIRO car park after business hours and during weekends. The clinic is also
accessible by foot from external stairs leading from bus stop 5 on Castray Esplanade (the clinic is downstairs from the
Vietnam Veterans’ Counseling Service). A ramp is located at the entrance to the
clinic for disabled access.
Last revised: February 2008