Psychology FAQs
Your Guide to our Therapy and Assessment Services, Fees, Rebates, and More at ANIMA.
At Anima Health Network, we understand that seeking mental health support can feel overwhelming, but you're not alone. Our FAQs are here to provide clear, compassionate answers to your questions about clinical psychology, neuropsychology, fees, Medicare rebates, and more. Whether you're exploring therapy options or preparing for your first session, we're committed to helping you navigate your journey with confidence. If you don't find what you're looking for, feel free to contact us; we're here to support you every step of the way. With clinics in Perth, WA, and Carlton, Melbourne, we're dedicated to providing accessible mental health support across Australia.
About Our Psychologists
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A clinical psychologist is a mental health expert in the assessment, diagnosis, formulation, and psychological treatment of mental health, behavioural, and emotional disorders throughout one's lifespan. To become a clinical psychologist, individuals typically undergo a minimum of 8 years of training.
The training path for a clinical psychologist involves completing a 4-year undergraduate degree in psychology (or its equivalent) and then pursuing a 2-3-year accredited postgraduate degree. Following this, a two-year Clinical Psychology Registrar program is undertaken under the supervision of an experienced, board-approved Clinical Psychologist.
For detailed information on the role and capabilities of a clinical psychologist and how they can assist, please visit: https://acpa.org.au/Web/Web/CP/What-is-a-Clinical-Psychologist.aspx
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A clinical neuropsychologist is a psychologist who investigates the relationship between the brain and behaviour. Specifically, they specialise in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of disorders associated with conditions affecting the brain.
Such conditions include:
• Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• Specific learning disorders (SLD)
• Dementia
• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
Clinical neuropsychologists can help patients and family members/carers better understand complaints and/or conditions of a neuropsychological nature and tailor interventions to optimise daily functioning.
The training path for a clinical Neuropsychologist involves completing a 4-year undergraduate degree in psychology (or its equivalent) and then pursuing a 2-3-year accredited postgraduate degree. Following this, a two-year Clinical Neuropsychology Registrar program is undertaken under the supervision of an experienced, board-approved Clinical Neurosychologist.
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No. While our psychologists can assess and diagnose conditions such as ADHD, we do not prescribe medication.
Medication can only be prescribed by a medical practitioner, such as a GP, psychiatrist, or paediatrician, who is best placed to determine whether medication is clinically appropriate and consistent with their diagnostic opinion.
We regularly work collaboratively with GPs and psychiatrists to support coordinated care when medication is being considered.
Fees & Medicare Rebates
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You do not need a mental health care plan, however you will need a referral from your GP, Psychiatrist or Paediatrician. to access our services.
If you are seeking to claim rebates from Medicare. you will need a valid mental health care plan from your referrer.
We also accept referrals for workers compensation claims such as WorkCover and Insurance Commission of WA, as well as DVA and from organisations such as WA Police, St John Ambulance and the Australian Defence Force.
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We know cost can be a concern when seeking support, so we're transparent about our fees at Anima Psychology. Standard 50-minute consultations with a Clinical Psychologist or Registrar range from $225 to $310, based on the clinician's experience. For exact details tailored to you, just give our Perth or Carlton team a call—we're happy to help.
You may qualify for Medicare rebates if you have a referral from a Psychiatrist, Paediatrician, or GP under a Mental Health Care Plan. This can cover up to 10 sessions per calendar year. Here's the breakdown:
With a Clinical Psychologist: $145.25 rebate per session.
With a Clinical Psychologist Registrar: $98.95 rebate per session.
These rebates help reduce your out-of-pocket costs for individual therapy. Not sure if you're eligible? Reach out—we'll guide you through it and answer any questions!
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The cost of assessments can depend on the specific needs of the individual, and the type and complexity of the assessment required. To ensure that you receive the most relevant and tailored information based on your specific circumstances, please complete an assessment enquiry and our patient care team will get in touch to support you through the next steps.
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We know assessments for children can feel daunting, especially with costs involved. At Anima we're here to help you understand Medicare rebates for diagnostic assessments (like for autism or other neurodevelopmental conditions). These can reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.here's a simple breakdown.
Key Details on Rebates
Rebate Amount: $98.95 per session for a psychologist-conducted assessment.
Eligibility: Available for children or young people under 25 with a referral from a paediatrician or child psychiatrist.
Service Limit: Up to 4 diagnostic assessment services per lifetime.
Total Potential Rebate: Up to 4 hours can be claimed (4 × 98.95 = $395.80) for a full diagnosis. See MBS Online for more details.
For Adults: Medicare doesn't provide rebates for assessments, but some private health funds may cover part of the cost, please check directly with your fund for details.
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We get that life happens, and we're here to make things as easy as possible. To help us offer spots to others in need, please give us more than 48 business hours' notice to cancel or reschedule. Can't make it in person? No worries, we can switch to telehealth for your scheduled time!
For telehealth, we'll need payment upfront (via phone or your card on file) to start the session.
Quick Guide to Cancellation Fees
No Charge: Cancel or reschedule with more than 48 business hours' notice (business hours exclude weekends/holidays).
Full Session Fee: Less than 48 business hours' notice, no-shows or cancellations over the weekend for Monday appointments.
These fees aren't covered by Medicare, private health funds, DVA, or WorkCover, so they're out-of-pocket. Facing issues? Contact us early, we'll work with you on options like telehealth. Reach our to our team for help!
Signs of Neurodevelopmental Differences in Children
At Anima, we specialise in assessments that help identify and address these challenges while respecting diverse backgrounds and experiences. Remember, these are general indicators, not a diagnosis. Neurodevelopmental differences present differently in everyone (and may be underdiagnosed in women, non-binary people, or certain cultural groups), and self-identification is valid, but a professional evaluation can provide greater insights and clarity.
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As a caregiver, noticing potential learning difficulties in a child can be concerning, but early support makes a big difference for everyone.
Common Signs by Age Group
Preschool (Ages 3–5):
Struggles with rhyming, naming letters, or basic counting.
Difficulty following simple instructions or remembering routines.
Challenges with puzzles, drawing, or using tools like scissors.
School-Age (Ages 6–12):
Trouble reading words, sounding out letters, or understanding stories.
Challenges with math basics, like addition/subtraction or telling time.
Poor handwriting, spelling errors, or avoiding writing tasks.
Difficulty staying focused, organizing schoolwork, or completing homework.
General Signs (Any Age):
Frustration, low self-esteem, or avoidance of school-related activities.
Falling behind peers despite effort and support.
Family history of learning difficulties (e.g., dyslexia or ADHD).
If these resonate, please send us an enquiry and we will guide you through the next steps.
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Spotting potential signs of autism in your child can feel overwhelming, but early awareness and support can make a world of difference. At Anima our team offers specialised assessments to help families understand and navigate this. Keep in mind, these are general indicators, not a diagnosis. Autism presents differently in every person, and signs can vary across cultures, genders, and experiences (noting that autistic traits may be under-recognised in some groups). We're here to support you with kindness and expertise.
Common Signs by Age Group
Infants and Toddlers (Birth to 2 Years):
Limited eye contact, smiling, or responding to their name.
Delayed babbling, pointing, or gestures like waving.
Little interest in social games (e.g., peek-a-boo) or playing with others.
Preschool (Ages 3–5):
Challenges with back-and-forth conversation or imaginative play.
Repetitive behaviours, like lining up toys or echoing phrases.
Strong reactions to changes in routine or sensory inputs (e.g., sounds, textures).
School-Age (Ages 6+):
Difficulty making friends or understanding social cues.
Intense focus on specific topics, with less interest in peers.
Struggles with flexible thinking or handling transitions.
Other signs might include delayed speech, unusual movements (e.g., hand-flapping), or heightened sensitivity. If these resonate, please send us an enquiry and we will guide you through the next steps.
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As a caregiver, noticing potential signs of ADHD in a child can be challenging, but understanding them early can lead to supportive strategies that celebrate neurodiversity. At Anima, we provide assessments and guidance tailored to diverse families and backgrounds. Remember, these are general indicators, not a diagnosis. If you notice several, an assessment is a positive step. We're here to support you with respect and empathy.
Common Signs by Age Group
Preschool (Ages 3–5):
Constant movement, difficulty sitting still, or excessive climbing/running.
Trouble focusing on activities, even fun ones, or following simple rules.
Impulsive actions, like grabbing toys or interrupting others.
School-Age (Ages 6–12):
Easily distracted, forgetting tasks, or struggling to organise schoolwork.
Fidgeting, talking excessively, or having difficulty waiting their turn.
Challenges with homework, listening in class, or completing multi-step instructions.
General Signs (Any Age):
Emotional ups and downs, low frustration tolerance, or self-esteem issues.
Hyperfocus on preferred activities but struggles with transitions.
Co-occurring traits, like sleep issues or sensory sensitivities.
If these resonate, please send us an enquiry and we will guide you through the next steps.
Signs of Neurological Differences in Adults
At Anima, we specialise in assessments that help identify and address these challenges while respecting diverse backgrounds and experiences. Remember, these are general indicators, not a diagnosis. Neurodevelopmental differences present differently in everyone (and may be underdiagnosed in women, non-binary people, or certain cultural groups), and self-identification is valid, but a professional evaluation can provide greater insights and clarity.
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Many autistic adults discover their neurodiversity later in life, and recognizing the signs can bring clarity and relief for people from all backgrounds. At Anima we offer assessments and support tailored to neurodiversity, respecting diverse genders, cultures, and experiences. Remember, these are general indicators, not a diagnosis. Autism presents differently in everyone (and may be under-diagnosed in women, non-binary people, or certain cultural groups), and self-identification is valid, but a professional evaluation can provide personalised insights. If several signs feel familiar, we're here to help with understanding and compassion, no judgment, just guidance.
Common Signs in Adults
Social and Communication:
Difficulty reading social cues, like sarcasm or body language.
Preference for direct, literal communication over small talk.
Challenges in forming or maintaining relationships, often feeling "different" in groups.
Sensory and Routine:
Heightened sensitivity to lights, sounds, textures, or crowds (or under-sensitivity).
Strong need for routines; changes can cause stress or anxiety.
Repetitive behaviours, like fidgeting or following specific patterns.
Cognitive and Emotional:
Intense focus on niche interests or hobbies, sometimes to the exclusion of other activities.
Struggles with executive functioning, like planning, organising, or multitasking.
Masking traits to fit in, leading to exhaustion or burnout.
Other experiences might include delayed diagnosis (common in women or high-functioning individuals) or co-occurring conditions like anxiety. If these resonate, please send us an enquiry and we will guide you through the next steps.
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Many ADHD adults recognise their neurodiversity later in life, and understanding the signs can bring empowerment and strategies for thriving.
Common Signs in Adults
Attention and Focus:
Easily distracted, trouble completing tasks, or chronic procrastination.
Difficulty organizing priorities, managing time, or remembering details.
Hyperfocus on interesting activities but struggles with mundane ones.
Hyperactivity and Impulsivity:
Inner restlessness, fidgeting, or feeling "on the go" mentally.
Impulsive decisions, like interrupting others or overspending.
Challenges with waiting or handling boredom.
Emotional and Daily Life:
Mood swings, low frustration tolerance, or rejection sensitivity.
Struggles with relationships, work performance, or self-esteem.
Masking symptoms to fit in, leading to burnout or exhaustion.
Other experiences might include co-occurring conditions like anxiety or a history of childhood signs. If these resonate, please send us an enquiry and we will guide you through the next steps.
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Noticing signs of neurodegenerative conditions (like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, or other progressive brain changes) can be worrying for individuals and families, but early awareness opens doors to support and management strategies that honour diverse experiences. We're here to provide compassionate, inclusive guidance every step of the way.
Common Signs in Adults
Cognitive Changes:
Memory lapses, confusion with familiar tasks, or difficulty planning/organizing.
Challenges with language, like finding words or following conversations.
Spatial disorientation, such as getting lost in known places.
Physical and Motor Changes:
Tremors, stiffness, or slowed movements (e.g., in Parkinson's).
Balance issues, falls, or changes in handwriting/gait.
Emotional and Behavioral Changes:
Mood shifts, apathy, anxiety, or withdrawal from social activities.
Sleep disturbances or hallucinations in later stages.
These signs often develop gradually and can affect people of any background. If these resonate, please send us an enquiry and we will guide you through the next steps.
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Experiencing or supporting someone with an acquired brain injury (ABI) can be life-changing, but early recognition and inclusive care can support recovery and quality of life for people from all backgrounds. At Anima we offer neuropsychological assessments and guidance tailored to diverse individuals, including those with varying cultural, gender, or ability experiences. ABI (from non-traumatic causes like stroke or infection) affects everyone differently, and signs can overlap with other conditions. Severity varies, and recovery is possible, professional evaluation is key. If several signs appear, we're here to help with respect, empathy, and personalised strategies.
Common Signs of ABI
Cognitive and Thinking:
Memory lapses, confusion, or difficulty concentrating and problem-solving.
Challenges with planning, organising, or processing information.
Slowed thinking or trouble finding words.
Emotional and Behavioural:
Mood changes, irritability, anxiety, or depression.
Impulsivity, social withdrawal, or personality shifts.
Fatigue or sleep disturbances affecting daily life.
Physical and Sensory:
Headaches, dizziness, or balance issues.
Vision/hearing changes, weakness, or coordination problems.
Sensitivity to light, noise, or touch.
Signs may emerge immediately or over time, and recovery can involve rehabilitation. If these resonate, please send us an enquiry and we will guide you through the next steps.
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Traumatic brain injury (TBI) from impacts like falls, accidents, or sports can be life-altering, but early recognition empowers recovery and resilience for individuals of all backgrounds. These are general indicators, not a diagnosis, and severity ranges from mild (concussion) to severe; symptoms can evolve over time. Professional help is crucial, and we're here with understanding and inclusive care to guide you.
Common Signs (Any Age, Immediate or Ongoing)
Physical Changes:
Headaches, nausea, dizziness, or loss of balance/coordination.
Sensory issues, like blurred vision, ringing ears, or sensitivity to light/noise.
Cognitive Changes:
Confusion, memory gaps, or trouble focusing/processing information.
Slurred speech or difficulty with problem-solving.
Emotional and Behavioral Changes:
Irritability, anxiety, depression, or sudden mood changes.
Sleep disturbances, fatigue, or impulsivity.
Seek immediate medical attention for severe signs (e.g., loss of consciousness). For ongoing effects, please send us an enquiry and we will guide you through the next steps.
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