Frequently asked questions
How do I make a referral?
We consider self-referrals and referrals from professionals such as General Practitioners through e-mail or ERMS. To understand how we can best meet your needs, you will be asked a brief set of questions. We will direct you to other services that may be able to help, if your request is not suitable for our services.
What happens at my first appointment?
You may arrive 5 - 10 minutes early to make yourself a hot or cold drink in the waiting room. You will be greeted in the waiting room (alone or with a support person) and then asked to enter the therapy room. Once you feel safe and comfortable, we will talk about your social history, what’s going on for you currently and the strategies you’ve used to help you. We will work together to make a treatment plan to work towards your goals.
What is your record keeping process?
Psych-Consult Services uses electronic records. Any paper file related to you is shredded after an electronic copy is taken. Records are stored via a password protected Cloud storage system. Clinical Psychologists are required by law to retain records of clients for 10 years, after this time your records will be destroyed.
Is my information confidential?
Your information and sessions with Psych-Consult are confidential, unless we believe that you or someone else may be at risk of harm. We may need to talk to the appropriate people to ensure safety (e.g., family members, GP, other organisations).
Psych-Consult also works with other professionals, who are bounded by confidentiality and/or the Privacy Act (e.g., supervisors, multi-disciplinary team). We will do everything we can to ensure you are non-identifiable when discussing your information with a third-party, except when required by law (e.g., court order).
How do I access therapy under ‘orange’ and ‘red’ settings?
Psych-Consult is committed to follow government advice, while ensuring people attain and maintain mental health support they require. Appointments will continue to be scheduled face to face or online through ‘Google Meet’. Extra cleaning of high touch surfaces and precautions with ventilation are applied.
What happens if I develop cold/flu symptoms before my appointment?
Psych-Consult will assume the session will continue online. You may also rebooking a time with your clinician before your scheduled session.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you are unable to make your appointment, please provide 24 hours notice before your scheduled session. Should a cancellation occur within a period of 24 hours of your scheduled appointment, or in the case of a non-attendance without notice, you will be liable for a cancellation fee equivalent to 50% of your relevant session fee. In the cases of recurrent cancellations, you will be liable for 100% of session fee.
What are your fees?
Initial Consultation - $300 (incl. GST) which is 80 minutes long and involves an assessment and treatment plan.
Follow up appointments are 50 minute consultations at $195.50 (incl. GST).
Adult ADHD or Autism assessments (with a report) are charged between $1,600 and $1,800 (depending on complexity).
Payments are accepted in the form of direct debit transfer before your appointment.
How often should I come to therapy?
We suggest you make weekly or fortnightly sessions ahead of time. Progress and session frequency is typically reviewed after attending 6 sessions.
Do you offer appointments for people in an emergency / state of crisis?
We cannot offer an acute or urgent service. If you feel overwhelmed or in need of urgent support, contact:
Your GP or;
Crisis Resolution, who are available 24 hours, 7 days a week. You may present to them in person at Hillmorton Hospital (weekdays 8:30am – 4:30pm) or Christchurch Hospital Emergency Department (outside of these hours). Or call CR on 0800 920 092 or 03 364 0640.