Frequently asked Questions (FAQ)

Ready to Book Your Appointment?

We know that reaching out can be a big step — so we’ve made it as easy and welcoming as possible.

Book Online
Use our online booking system to view available appointments and choose a time that suits you.

Prefer to Chat?
Call us on 03 5222 4737 — our friendly team will help you find the right appointment and answer any questions you may have.

Have a GP Referral or NDIS Plan?
If you’re using a Mental Health Care Plan or NDIS support, please send it through via:

  • Fax: 03 5298 1108

  • Email: hello@emeraldtree.com.au
    (We’d love to say courier pigeon, but scanned copies will do just fine!)

Funded Sessions & Referrals

We offer a range of supported pathways, including:

  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) — We proudly work with partners like Mali, Gforce, Cultura, and Timbertruss.

  • NDIS – Plan-managed and self-managed participants welcome.

  • Open Arms – For veterans and families.

  • Carer-Funded Support — For those caring for loved ones.

  • Open Place – Visit their site to learn more.

If your sessions are funded through any of these programs, we’ll guide you through the process.

And if you or a loved one has a connection to the Australian Defence Force, please let us know in your intake form — you may be eligible for additional support.

How Long Are Appointments?

Most sessions at Emerald Tree run for 45–50 minutes. However, this can vary depending on your unique circumstances and the type of support you’re receiving. We aim to provide you with focused, meaningful time tailored to your needs.

What We Offer at Emerald Tree

At Emerald Tree, we provide a wide range of therapeutic services for individuals, couples, families, and workplaces:

Mental Health Therapy

  • Anxiety, depression, and stress

  • Relationship support

  • Pregnancy options and postnatal care

  • Child, adolescent, and youth counselling

  • Seniors counselling

  • Carer and caregiver support

  • Parenting and family dynamics

  • Career transitions

Specialised Support

  • Neurological and chronic health counselling

  • Sexuality, intimacy, and relationship concerns

  • Disability and life skills

  • Transition into residential or aged care

Additional Services

  • Relationship and parenting coaching

  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)

  • Stress, resilience, and life skills workshops

  • Allied health supervision

Understanding the Medicare Safety Net

If your GP has provided a Mental Health Care Plan, your sessions may contribute towards the Medicare Safety Net. Once you reach the annual threshold, your Medicare rebate may increase, helping to reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.

Please note that Medicare does not cover relationship counselling. However, you are welcome to self-refer to our service without needing a GP referral.

For more details about your eligibility or how the Medicare Safety Net works, we recommend contacting your local Medicare office directly.

Session Costs

At Emerald Tree, our session rates are as follows:

  • Senior Clinician: $230–$220 (Medicare rebate available with a valid referral)

  • After-Hours Appointments: $250

  • Allied Health Clinician: $220 (no Medicare rebate available)

  • Private Counselling Session: $170 (no Medicare rebate available)

  • Relationship Counselling: $250 (Medicare rebate does not apply)

For clients accessing services through the NDIS or other funded programs, please contact us directly to discuss rates and funding arrangements.

We are a time-billing practice, and our pricing reflects the comprehensive care and support we provide.

Is There a Waitlist?

Wait times for an initial consultation can vary based on your preferred availability and chosen therapist. On average, there may be a 2-week wait for your first session. However, we currently have immediate availability for NDIS participants, including both children and adults.

Can I Get in Sooner?

Yes, sometimes. If you're flexible with appointment times and can attend on short notice, we recommend asking to be added to our cancellation list. We’ll contact you if an earlier slot becomes available.

Preparing for Your Appointment

We encourage you to take a few moments before your first session to reflect on what brings you to Emerald Tree. Preparing a one-page summary can be a helpful tool for both you and your therapist.

What to Include in Your Summary:

  • The main challenges or concerns you're facing

  • Any symptoms you're experiencing

  • Relevant history or previous support you’ve received

This preparation helps our team better understand your situation and allows us to support you more effectively from your first session. If you need help getting started, feel free to contact our team—we’re here to assist.