FAQs
Psychologist FAQs
At SYM we treat adults with all types of eating disorders, disordered eating, body image issues, weight concerns and related problems such as trauma, depression and anxiety.
You do not need to be diagnosed with an eating disorder to attend therapy, some people just want to improve how they feel about their relationship with food or to get off the diet roller coaster.
All of our therapists are qualified and experienced in treating the above issues, however each therapist will have a different style and personality. If you do not feel that the therapist you are seeing is the right fit for you, please don’t hesitate to let us know and we can match you with another therapist.
The length of treatment varies from person to person, depending on the presenting concerns and treatment goals. While some people do see progress after just a few sessions, it is important to keep in mind that therapy is not a “quick fix” and it requires commitment and regular attendance to be effective.
We understand that talking to a therapist for the first time can be uncomfortable and nerve-wracking.
Your psychologist will start by going over the confidentiality and privacy information that you will have received prior to your appointment. They will then do a full assessment including your current concerns, your history and what you would like to get out of therapy. Your psychologist will then discuss recommendations for your treatment.
You will also get the opportunity to ask your therapist any questions that you might have.
The cost of sessions varies between $150 – $260 depending on which therapist you see. If you have a valid treatment plan from your GP you will be able to claim a significant Medicare rebate for a limited number of sessions per year.
You do not require a referral but if you wish to claim a Medicare rebate then you will need a referral from your GP along with either a Mental Health Care Plan or an Eating Disorders Treatment Plan (if you are eligible).
Yes, if you have a valid Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) or Eating Disorders Treatment Plan (EDTP) you can claim a rebate on up to 20 sessions per year for a MHCP or up to 40 sessions with an EDTP.
Some health funds offer rebates but you will need to check with your specific fund. Please note that you cannot claim both a Medicare rebate and a private health rebate for the same session.
Dietitian FAQs
- Eating disorders (Binge Eating Disorder, Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, ARFID, OSFED)
- Disordered eating (including Orthorexia)
- Weight concerns (non-diet, Health at Every Size approach)
- Food intolerances (including low FODMAP approaches)
- Diabetes and insulin resistance
- Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
- Peri-natal nutrition support
The length of treatment varies from person to person, depending on the presenting concerns and treatment goals. Some people will benefit from just a few sessions while others will require ongoing support. Your dietitian might also be working alongside your psychologist as part of a multidisciplinary team.
We understand that you might feel nervous about talking to a dietitian for the first time.
In the first session your dietitian will ask you about your current concerns that led you to seek dietetic support and will also take a full history including eating behaviours, medical conditions, physical activity and weight. In some cases the dietitian might want to take your current weight and height, but please feel free to tell them if you are not comfortable being weighed. They will then discuss recommendations for treatment moving forward.
This first session is also an opportunity to ask your dietitian any questions that you might have.
Initial assessments are one hour and cost $225. Subsequent sessions cost between $105 (30 mins) and $210 (hour).
If you have a Chronic Disease Management Plan from your GP, then you will be able to claim a Medicare Rebate of $54.60 per session for up to 5 sessions per year.
If you have an Eating Disorder Treatment Plan, from your GP or Psychiatrist, then you will be eligible to claim a Medicare Rebate of $58.00 per session for up to 20 sessions per year.
You might also be able to claim through your Private Health fund, but you cannot claim both a Medicare and Private rebate for the same session.
General FAQs
We offer a limited number of bulk-billing slots but these tend to fill up quickly.
We require at least 24 hours (business days) notice or else full fee applies.
If you require urgent help please contact the Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511 or Lifeline on 13 11 14. If it is an emergency, please call 000 or go straight to your nearest Emergency Department.
Unfortunately we are not a crisis service and cannot provide urgent support.
Have another question?
Please get in touch via our contact page.
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At Shape Your Mind we offer something different: expertise, knowledge and compassion – to help you Change your Life for good.
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Shape Your Mind is dedicated to helping you gain control of your eating and to improve your body image and self-esteem…for life!
