For New Clients
Everything you need to know before your first appointment — how to book, what to expect, funding options, fees, and answers to the questions we hear most often. We are here to make the process as easy and welcoming as possible.
Contact Either Clinic — We Will Find the Right Fit for You
Our warm, empathetic admin team understands that reaching out for support takes real courage — and they are here to make that first step as easy as possible. Call whichever clinic is most convenient for you, and our team will guide you from there.
Sippy Downs Clinic
Suite 4/103 Sippy Downs Drive, Sippy Downs QLD 4556
(07) 5309 6128 info@scpc.net.auOur priority is always finding you the best possible clinician match — not just the nearest available appointment. Our two clinics are only approximately 10 minutes apart, and our clinical team works across both locations. When you call, our team will listen carefully to your needs and match you with the psychologist whose expertise, approach, and availability is the best fit for your situation. Being open to either location means we can often get you started sooner, and with exactly the right person for you.
How to Make an Appointment
Getting started is straightforward. Our admin team will guide you through every step with care and without judgment.
Reach Out
Call either clinic, use the Book Appointment button, or send us an email. Our admin team will take the time to listen and understand what you are looking for — there is no pressure and no wrong way to start the conversation.
We Match You to the Right Psychologist
Our team carefully considers your needs, goals, and preferences alongside each psychologist's areas of expertise and current availability. The best match may be at either of our two clinics — both are approximately 10 minutes apart and our team works across both locations.
Complete Your Intake Forms
Once booked, you will receive a welcome email with an adult or child intake and consent form. Please complete and return this before your appointment — it helps your psychologist prepare and makes the most of your first session together.
Attend Your First Session
Arrive 10–15 minutes early to settle in and complete any remaining paperwork. Your first session is approximately 50 minutes. There is no pressure to prepare anything — just come as you are, with an open mind.
What to Expect at Your First Session
Talking with a psychologist for the first time can feel daunting. We have designed our clinics to make you feel as comfortable and welcome as possible from the moment you walk in.
No Need to Prepare Anything
There is no pressure to prepare any information before your session. All you need to do is turn up. Our team will help you through the process. You are welcome to enjoy a coffee or tea while you complete any paperwork in our comfortable waiting area.
Your Psychologist Will Get to Know You
Your first session lasts approximately 50 minutes. Your psychologist will introduce themselves and take the time to get to know you and understand what has brought you in. They may ask questions about your background, history, or current situation — but only what you are comfortable sharing. There is absolutely no rush, and you are always in control of the pace.
A Personalised Plan, Together
Towards the end of the session, your psychologist will share their thoughts on what might be most helpful for you and answer any questions you have. Together you will set goals for the changes you would like to see. They will suggest how often to meet and what to focus on between sessions — and you can always adjust this as you go.
Booking Your Follow-Up Appointments
We recommend booking a series of follow-up appointments from the very beginning of your treatment. This ensures you can secure a regular day and time that works best for you — our psychologists are often booked 4 to 6 weeks in advance, so planning ahead avoids disappointment and gaps in your care. Follow-up sessions are typically scheduled weekly or fortnightly, and the frequency will always be discussed and agreed upon between you and your psychologist as part of your individual therapeutic journey.
In-Clinic or Telehealth — Your Choice
Sessions are available face-to-face at both our Sippy Downs and Maroochydore clinics, or via secure telehealth video call from the comfort of your own home. Telehealth instructions and a secure session link are emailed to you before your appointment. Both formats are 50 minutes in duration and Medicare rebates apply equally to both.
Funding & Rebate Options
We accept a range of funding options to make psychology as accessible as possible. Our admin team can help you understand your entitlements and navigate the referral process. Payment is required at the time of your appointment — EFTPOS facilities are available at both clinics.
Medicare — Mental Health Care Plan
If your GP deems you eligible, a Mental Health Treatment Plan entitles you to a Medicare rebate for up to 10 sessions per calendar year. A GP review is required after the 6th session. Please bring your plan to the first session, or ask your GP to forward it to us directly.
GP Referral RequiredNDIS — National Disability Insurance Scheme
We are a registered NDIS provider and welcome self-managed and plan-managed participants. NDIS funding can cover individual psychology sessions, assessments, and support for families of children with autism. Our team will help you navigate the process.
Registered ProviderDVA — Department of Veterans' Affairs
DVA Gold and White Card holders are accepted at our clinic. We work with eligible veterans and their families to provide psychological support under DVA funding arrangements. Please contact our admin team to discuss your entitlements before booking.
Gold & White CardWorkCover Queensland
We accept WorkCover Queensland referrals for work-related psychological injuries. A referral from your treating doctor or WorkCover case manager is required. Our psychologists are experienced in supporting clients through workplace injury recovery and return-to-work planning.
Referral RequiredPrivate Health Insurance
Many private health funds cover psychology services under their extras policy. Your gap payment will depend on your specific policy and level of cover. We recommend contacting your health fund directly to confirm your entitlements before your appointment.
Check Your PolicySelf-Funded (Private)
You do not need a referral to see a psychologist. Self-funded clients are welcome at both clinics at any time. Please contact our admin team to discuss current fees and to find the right psychologist for your needs — no referral or GP visit required.
No Referral NeededCancellation & Late Notice Policy
We understand that life is unpredictable and that sometimes things come up unexpectedly. However, late cancellations have a real impact — on your own progress, on another person on our waitlist who needs support, and on your psychologist who has prepared specifically for your session.
Clients who fail to provide at least 48 hours' notice to cancel will incur a full session fee. Clients who are unable to pay this fee will not be able to access further services or attend appointments until the balance is settled.
Clients who repeatedly cancel without adequate notice will be placed back on the waiting list. We genuinely appreciate your understanding and respect for our clinicians' time and the needs of our broader client community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions we hear most often from new clients and their families.
Ready to Take the First Step?
We know reaching out takes courage. Our team is here to make the process as warm, easy, and supportive as possible — from your very first call through to your first session and beyond.
