Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs
How do I make an appointment?
IOnline Booking: Visit our website here to book your session conveniently online.
Call Us: Just give us a ring at 03 5222 4737. Our friendly team will help you schedule an appointment that suits your needs.
GP Referrals and NDIS: If you have a GP referral or NDIS coverage, please submit your Mental Health Care Plan via:
Fax: 03 5298 1108
Email: hello@emeraldtreecounselling.com.au (Attach scanned copy)
Courier Pigeon: For a secure delivery.
Alternative Funding Options
We offer various referral pathways for our clients, including:
Employee Assistance Programs: Partnering with EAP providers such as Mali, Gforce, Cultura, and Timbertruss.
Carer-Funded Counseling Programs
Bupa Open Arms
National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)
Open Place: Visit Open Place for more information.
If your sessions are covered by a third party through any of these programs, you will be notified accordingly.
Additionally, if you or a family member has a connection to the Australian Defence Force (ADF), please inform us on your information form, as you may also be eligible for funded sessions.
Kindly let us know if you are a caregiver for a family member or loved one.
How long are appointments?
Appointments are usually 45-50 minutes but may vary depending on the nature of the problem and ongoing treatment.
What services do you provide?
Mental Health Counseling:
Depression, Anxiety, and Stress
Relationship Counseling
Pregnancy Options
Carer Counseling
Child and Adolescent Counseling
Seniors Counseling
Parenting and Family Counseling
Career Counseling and Business Coaching
Specialised Support:
Neurological Disorders, Illness, and Health Counseling
Transition into Residential Care
Sexual and Intimacy Counseling
Disability and Life Skills
Additional Services:
Relationship and Parenting Coaching
Employee Assistance Programs
Stress and Life Skills Workshops
Allied Health Supervision
Understanding Your Medicare Safety Net at Emerald Tree
If you've received a Medicare referral, it's important to understand how this affects your out-of-pocket expenses and potential savings.
Your Medicare referral means your out-of-pocket expenses contribute to the Medicare Safety Net. Reaching this threshold increases your Medicare rebate, reducing your costs significantly.
Please note, that Medicare doesn't cover relationship counseling. However, our counsellors are here to support you through relationship challenges in a nurturing environment.
For more information on the Medicare Safety Net, contact your local Medicare office. They can provide comprehensive details and eligibility criteria.
What are the costs of sessions?
Please see our fees page
Is there a waitlist?
The waiting list is variable for an initial consultation depending upon your preferred times and the various therapist’s availability. Usually, it is a 2-week wait for your first appointment however, we currently have immediate appointments available for NDIS clients (children and adults).
Is it possible to get in earlier?
Cancellations do happen, so if you have flexibility with times, and can come in at relatively short notice, it may well be possible to get in earlier, just ask to be put on the cancellation list.
Preparing for Your Appointment: Summary of Your Situation
At Emerald Tree, we value the importance of being prepared for your therapy appointments. Providing a detailed summary of your situation can greatly enhance the therapeutic process. To ensure the most effective and efficient use of your time, we offer the following guidance:
Why Prepare a Summary: Preparing a one-page summary allows you to succinctly communicate the essential aspects of your situation to our therapists. This ensures that they have a comprehensive understanding of your concerns and can facilitate focused discussions during your appointment.
Key Points to Include:
Nature of Concerns
Symptoms
Previous Treatment
Our Commitment to You: At Emerald Tree, we are committed to providing you with the support you need. If you have any questions or require assistance in creating your summary, please do not hesitate to contact our office. We look forward to working with you and ensuring that your appointment is as productive as possible.