Do I need a referral?
You will need a valid referral from a GP, paediatrician or psychiatrist which will provide access to any relevant Medicare rebates such as better access to mental health care (10 sessions per calendar year) or the eating disorder medicare items (maximum 40 sessions per year).
If you wish to privately fund your treatment Tamara prefers a referral from your GP, paediatrician or psychiatrist so that your psychological care can be performed using a collaborative multidisciplinary team approach where possible. If you have private health insurance you may be able to claim some of the session costs. This will depend on your health insurer and policy.
How long are sessions?
Therapy sessions are usually 50 minutes long. Assessment sessions are often longer and often booked over two or more sessions.
What is the session format?
Currently Tamara is providing face to face sessions at Carlton and telehealth sessions via videoconferencing (e.g. zoom). You can choose whether you wish to come into the office or have the session via telehealth. Some assessments require attending the office.
How much do sessions cost?
A standard session cost for psychological therapy with Tamara: $260 from 1 Jan 2025
A medicare rebate of $141.85 per session may be available as detailed above with a valid referral from a GP or psychiatrist.
How much do assessments cost?
Assessment costs vary depending on any prior assessments that a client may have completed. Some indicative costs follow.
Adult ADHD assessments
I usually suggest going straight to a psychiatrist for an adult ADHD assessment. This is because they are generally the only health professionals who can prescribe stimulant medication, which is the most effective treatment for ADHD symptoms for most people. It is usually more cost effective to see a psychiatrist first for diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. Here is where you can find a list of ADHD specialist psychiatrists around Australia:
ADHD Psychiatrists in Australia
Some will prefer to see a psychologist for an assessment for various reasons. The cost of an Adult ADHD assessment with Tamara is $945 from 1 Jan 2025, which typically involves 3 sessions (includes a one page letter to confirm a diagnosis if applicable). An optional written comprehensive report is an additional $750- from 1 Jan 2025.
Adult autism assessments
The cost of an adult autism assessment with Tamara is $945 from 1 Jan 2025 and typically involves 3 sessions (includes a one page letter to confirm the diagnosis if applicable). An optional written comprehensive report is an additional $750 from 1 Jan 2025 – this report can be used as diagnostic evidence of autism for accessing the NDIS. Afterwards, if you wish to apply for NDIS support, an additional session ($315 from 1 Jan 2025) will be required to assess your needs under the 6 domains of functioning used by the NDIS. Then you will be provided with an NDIS completed supporting evidence letter/form.
Adult autism and ADHD assessment
The cost of a combined adult autism and ADHD assessment with Tamara is $1260 from 1 Jan 2025, and typically involves 4 sessions (includes a one page letter to confirm the diagnosis if applicable). A written comprehensive report is an additional $850 from 1 Jan 2025 – this report can be used as diagnostic evidence of autism for accessing the NDIS. Afterwards, if you wish to apply for NDIS support an additional session ($315 from 1 Jan 2025) will be required to assess your needs under the 6 areas of functioning used by the NDIS. Then you will be provided with an NDIS completed supporting evidence letter/form.
Is telehealth an option?
Yes, Tamara is happy to provide telehealth sessions and medicare rebates currently apply regardless of whether you live in a rural area.
How do I pay?
Payment can be automatically processed by the secure practice administration system when you provide your credit card details. Direct deposit and BPay is also available.
How do I make an appointment?
Please email Tamara: [email protected]
Please note Tamara’s books are open for new assessments. Tamara is not taking new therapy clients.
What if I need to reschedule or cancel?
If, for some reason you need to cancel or postpone your appointment, please give the psychologist at least 48 hours notice, otherwise you will be charged a cancellation fee as follows:
- Between 24-48 hours notice: 50% of fee;
- less than 24 hours notice: 100% of fee.
Emergency Crisis Support
Tamara is not able to provide emergency crisis support. If you require emergency crisis support you should contact your GP, Psychiatrist, attend an emergency ward, call emergency services on 000, or contact lifeline on 13 11 14.