Psychology
There will always be times in our lives when we need a little extra support. It could be that we’re going through a relationship break up, experiencing difficulties at work, struggling to get out of bed, experiencing negative thoughts, or feeling anxious or depressed; the list can be endless. Life is not always easy but the fact is we don’t have to do it alone.
Psychology is often referred to as the study of the human mind and its function. As a study, it is dedicated to learning why we experience the difficulties we do, and exploring how we can better understand or turn these experiences around so that we can fully enjoy our lives. Just as we would see an accountant when we’re struggling with our taxes or a dentist when we’re struggling with our teeth, it makes sense to see a psychologist when we’re struggling with our thoughts, feelings or behaviours.
The Benefits
Clinical Psychologists are trained to provide a wide range of psychological services, working with their clients therapeutically to understand their goals and develop a unique treatment plan tailored to their needs. At Serenity Holistic, Clinical Psychologist Renee Melges offers Holistic Psychology, an approach that looks at the whole person and which may combine Eastern and Western philosophies to assist clients to maximise their potential and facilitate personal growth. With over 25 years experience working as a Clinical Psychologist in Melbourne, Renee offers Holistic Psychology services in Melbourne and online, servicing clients from all over Australia. She has a particular interest in supporting those living in regional, rural and remote environments.
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What is a Clinical Psychologist?
A Clinical Psychologist is a psychologist who has embarked on additional training and supervision to enhance their skills and insights when working with complex mental health conditions.
What is the main goal of a Clinical Psychologist?
The main goal of a Clinical Psychologist is to enable their clients to better understand themselves at a deep level, and to recognise underlying core drivers that may be negatively impacting their ability to evolve and move forward in the direction they desire. A Clinical Psychologist will then support their client to shift to a more empowered state of being, to enable them to work towards achieving their personal goals.
What is the difference between a Psychologist and a Clinical Psychologist?
Registered Psychologists and Clinical Psychologists undergo extensive training in understanding and working with mental health difficulties. A Registered Psychologist has completed a four-year undergraduate degree and has undergone the equivalent of two years of supervised practice or completed relevant post-graduate studies. A Clinical Psychologist on the other hand has completed a four-year undergraduate degree, a two-year masters degree and undertaken the equivalence of two years supervised practice.
Both Registered and Clinical Psychologists are required to be registered with the Psychology Board of Australia and are required to undergo regular training and professional development to assure that they are up-to-date with new developments, treatments and supports for their clients. At Serenity Holistic Renee Melges offers Clinical Psychology services in Melbourne and across Australia via in-person and online Holistic Counselling. If you’d like to know more about Renee’s Clinical Psychology services and what presentations she works with, please reach out via our contact page .
What is the difference between a Clinical Psychologist and a Psychiatrist?
Both Clinical Psychologists and Psychiatrists have undergone extensive training in understanding and working with mental health conditions. The main difference between the two is that Psychiatrists are trained medical doctors and such are able to prescribe medication whereas Clinical Psychologists are not. Both Clinical Psychologists and Psychiatrists are able to utilise counselling and other therapeutic approaches in their practice. Both are governed by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
How much do Psychologists cost in Melbourne?
Each financial year, the Australia Psychological Society (APS) provide a National Schedule of Recommended Fees, which Psychologists and Clinical Psychologists use as a guide to set their individual fees. Each Psychologist determines their fees based on their level of experience and training. Serenity Holistic has a standard rate for their Clinical Psychology services based on the recommended rate within the APS National Schedule of recommended fees.
What is Holistic Psychology?
Holistic Psychology is a treatment approach that considers the whole person, exploring the interconnection of the mind, body and spirit and how these may impact on an individual’s ability to embrace their life, evolve and attain their personal goals. Holistic Psychology can incorporate Eastern and Western treatment models, working to uncover core negative belief systems that may be holding one back from enjoying all aspects of their life. At Serenity Holistic, our Clinical Psychologist Renee Melges has specialised her practice in providing Holistic Psychology services in Melbourne and Australia-wide via in-person and online counselling platforms. She has a particular interest in supporting those living in regional, rural and remote environments. Please reach out via our contact page to enquire further about our Holistic Psychology services in Melbourne and online.
Can I receive Medicare rebates for counselling sessions?
Under the Medicare Benefits Scheme if someone has an up-to-date Mental Health Care Plan from their GP then they are able to access a Medicare rebate with a Clinical Psychologist. The number of Medicare rebated sessions are 10 per calendar year. Contact your GP or Medicare for more information. Private Health Insurance rebates may also be available depending on your fund. Reduced fees are available for clients who have a Centrelink Health Care Card or Centrelink Pensioner Card. For more information about the cost of our Clinical Psychology services please reach out via our contact page and we will make a time to talk to you about the details.
Do you need a GP referral to see a Clinical Psychologist in Australia?
No, you don’t need a GP referral to see a Clinical Psychologist in Australia, but to access a Medicare rebate under the Medicare Benefits Scheme you do need an up-to-date Mental Health Care Plan from your GP.
