Frequently asked Questions (FAQs)

Frequently asked questions:

Question: I saw a psychologist for a couple of sessions but I would like to see you now. Do I need a new referral?
No! Just let your previous psychologist know, and keep your GP updated. The previous Psychologist will also write a progress report that will help plan for the change.

Question: What is the difference between a counsellor, psychotherapist, psychologist and psychiatrist?
There are similarities, but also some differences. All of the professions will provide support and help you make sense of your difficulties. However they have varied training or experience. A Psychiatrist is a medical doctor who is able to provide medications. No other profession in this list is able to provide medication. A Psychologist has completed a minimum of 6 years of education, such as 4 years of university and then additional study or on-the-job training. Finally a counsellor or a psychotherapist would have completed short courses to longer courses. Psychologist all need to be registered through the Australian Health Professional Regulation Agency (AHPRA). All staff members at DLG support services are Psychologist and registered through AHPRA.

Question: How long is an average treatment? How long before I get better?
There is no average treatment length or “expectation”. Instead it is an individual journey and sometimes it can be less about getting better but managing “better”. The treatment process is quicker when the person is willing, ready and open towards therapy.

Question: What should I expect on my first visit?
As DLG support services operates within your home, it can be geared towards what you would like to talk about. However, we will typically begin by coming up with a plan, finding connection, and ultimately figuring out what the next steps will include. We always suggest you find a quiet place within your home that you would find comfortable talking. We can also arrange to meet you within the community at a place that you feel comfortable and safe. There are some limits to this, as we must ensure certain levels of confidentiality and privacy are maintained for you. Reach our and contact us as we can answer more about this question.

Question: How can I get the most out of my therapy?
Be open and honest with your Psychologist. It is important to remember that your psychologist is there to help you and being open about your fears, worries, expectations and hopes helps the both of you create better goals and outcomes in the treatment. 
 

Writing, journalling and reflection – Sometimes there are thoughts that pop up out of sessions, do not hesitate to write these thoughts or questions down and explore them with your clinician. There are times that certain “insights” may occur outside of sessions as well and it can be helpful to write them down and explore them with your psychologist.

Being realistic about expectations. Change often takes time and it is important that you talk to your psychologist about your capacity (emotional, physical, financial, etc.)

Practice. Therapeutic change does not happen at home but in life. It is important that you practice the things set out by your psychologist. Just like riding a bicycle for the first time – rarely do people get it straight away and most will require practice.

Question: Do you provide after-hour services (e.g after 5:00 PM or on the weekend)?
Yes, however, there are limited sessions. Please reach out if you are interested.

Question: What is confidentiality and how does it apply?

Everything that is discussed in sessions is strictly confidential. This means your psychologist will not disclose any information unless consent is provided by you. All clinical notes, assessment data and reports will only be accessible by your psychologist.

However, there are certain circumstances whereby a psychologist is legally obligated to break confidentiality:

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• If there are concerns about your immediate safety or safety of others

• If your information is subpoenaed by the court of law

• If you disclose information regarding your involvement in or knowledge of criminal activity.

We also work from a Shared Care Model meaning that your treating doctor will be notified of your progress. Thus general and reasonable information will be disclosed to your GP or other professionals/agencies as per your given consent. You can always request for a review of your progress report before one is being sent to your GP.

Question: Do you have a wait-list?

Yes, we do. There are many factors that affect the wait-list, please reach out and explain your situation and we will find a work-able solution with you. Those on the wait-list will be provided updates.