Frequently Asked Questions
This is the space where you can find the most common questions answered. If you do not see your question, please reach out
About Therapy
What is psychological therapy?
Psychological therapy is a collaborative process designed to help you explore and better understand your emotions, thoughts, behaviours, values, and aspirations. At Restorative Space, our online psychological therapy services provide a safe, supportive environment for addressing past and present circumstances, helping you gain insight and build skills for positive change. Our approach is evidence-based, empowering you with the knowledge and tools to achieve meaningful growth.
Is psychological therapy right for me?
The effectiveness of psychological therapy often hinges on the strength of the therapeutic relationship. Finding a therapist with whom you feel comfortable is key. While specific outcomes can't be guaranteed within a set timeframe, consistent, value-aligned actions often lead to noticeable progress. During your initial assessment, you and your therapist will collaborate to create a suitable treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals.
Booking & Policies
How do I book a new client session?
To book a new client session at Restorative Space, you can use our Book Online page. Full payment is required to secure your initial appointment. If you choose not to proceed and provide at least 2 business days' notice, the full payment will be refunded. If you cancel within 2 business days or do not attend your appointment ("no-show"), the full payment will be forfeited.
What is the cancellation policy?
Restorative Space operates with a cancellation policy to ensure all clients have timely access to care and preferred session times. You will receive an SMS and email reminder 5 days before your appointment. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please provide at least 2 business days notice. Cancellations within this window will incur the full session fee. Short-notice cancellations may prevent other clients from accessing care and affect the therapist's preparation for the session. This information is laid out in our policies, which you will be required to review and sign prior to your initial appointment.
Are after-hours appointments available?
Yes, after-hours appointments (outside of 9 am - 5 pm, any day of the week) may be available, depending on the schedule of the practitioner.
Fees & Rebates
Can I use medicare for rebates?
Yes, Restorative Space provides psychological treatment under the Australian Government's Better Access to Mental Health Care initiative. If you are eligible for a Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP), you can claim Medicare rebates for up to 10 sessions per calendar year. Please speak with your GP to assess your eligibility for a MHCP.
Can I use my private health insurance (e.g. BUPA)?
If you have private health insurance, you may be eligible to claim rebates for psychological services. Please contact your provider to confirm your eligibility and coverage. However, please note that you cannot claim both Medicare rebates and private health insurance for the same session.
Online Therapy
What do I need for online psychological therapy?
For online psychological therapy, please ensure the following:
- A stable internet connection
- A device with video conferencing capabilities (laptop, desktop, or tablet)
- A quiet, private space, free from distractions (e.g., turn off notifications and minimise background noise)
You will receive a secure link to join the session prior to your appointment. While we use a secure teleconferencing system, please be aware that there are inherent risks with online communication, which will be explained during your initial session and outlined in our privacy and informed consent policies.
Is online psychological therapy different from in-person psychological therapy?
Online psychological therapy can offer greater accessibility and flexibility, allowing you to receive support from the comfort of your own home. Research has shown that telepsychology can be as effective as face-to-face therapy for many people (Greenwood et al., 2022). However, some people may prefer in-person sessions due to the sensitive nature of certain topics. If you're unsure about whether online therapy is suitable for you, we recommend trying a few online sessions to see how you go, and discussing any concerns with your therapist.