Our Services
Psychiatry
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who has completed specialist training in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions. Psychiatrists consulting at Mind Connections assess, diagnose and treat a broad range of conditions in adults, including depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, psychotic disorders, and more complex or treatment-resistant presentations.
Because psychiatrists are medically trained, they can consider the full picture of your health: the interaction between physical and mental conditions, the role of medications, and where specialised treatments such as TMS or esketamine may be appropriate. This makes psychiatric assessment particularly valuable when your situation is complex, when a diagnosis is uncertain, or when previous treatments have not delivered the results you hoped for.
Your first appointment
Your initial appointment is a comprehensive assessment, usually lasting up to 60 to 90 minutes. Your psychiatrist will ask about your current concerns, your personal and medical history, any previous treatment you have received, and what you hope to get out of care. There is no pressure to share more than you are comfortable with, and everything you discuss is confidential.
It is important to know that arriving at a diagnosis may not always be possible in a single session. For more complex presentations, a thorough diagnostic assessment can take two to three sessions. Taking this time leads to a more accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan that genuinely fits your situation.
It helps to bring a list of your current medications, any previous mental health reports or specialist letters, and your referral if it has not already been sent to the clinic.
Your treatment plan
Following assessment, your psychiatrist will discuss their findings with you and work with you to develop a personalised management plan. Depending on your needs, this may include medication, referral for psychological therapy, lifestyle strategies, or specialist treatments such as TMS or esketamine. The plan is reviewed regularly and adjusted as your circumstances and progress change.
Assessment and management plan for your GP
If you have a strong relationship with your GP and prefer that they manage your ongoing care, Medicare item 291 allows a psychiatrist to conduct an assessment, arrive at a diagnosis, and provide your GP with a detailed written management plan to guide your care for the following 12 months. This usually takes one to three sessions depending on complexity. Ask your GP to request to an assessment and management plan (Medicare item 291) in their referral. If a review is later needed, your GP can re-refer you for further assessment.
Ongoing care and communication
Your psychiatrist will write to your referring GP to ensure your broader treating team stays informed and up to date. Follow-up appointments are scheduled according to your needs, and many reviews can be conducted by telehealth where clinically appropriate.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
Yes. A current referral from your GP or another specialist is required, and ensures you receive Medicare rebates on eligible consultations. GP referrals to a psychiatrist are typically valid for 12 months.
What's the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who has specialised in mental health. They can diagnose conditions, prescribe and manage medication, and consider how your physical and mental health interact. A psychologist is not a medical doctor and does not prescribe; they specialise in psychological assessment and evidence-based talking therapies such as CBT. The two often work together, with a psychiatrist guiding diagnosis and medical treatment and a psychologist providing ongoing therapy. Because Mind Connections has both, your care can move between them as your needs change. If you're not sure which is right for you, your GP can help you decide.
How long is the first appointment?
Initial psychiatric assessments can run up to 60 to 90 minutes. For complex presentations, a complete diagnostic assessment may take two to three sessions.
Will I be put on medication?
Not necessarily. Medication is one of several options your psychiatrist may discuss with you. Any recommendation will be explained clearly, including benefits, potential side effects and alternatives, and the decision is always made together with you.
Can my psychiatrist work with my GP instead of seeing me ongoing?
Yes. Under Medicare item 291, a psychiatrist can assess you, provide a diagnosis, and give your GP a detailed management plan to follow for the next 12 months. Ask your GP to request item 291 in the referral.
Can I have my appointments by telehealth?
Yes, your appointments can be conducted by Telehealth from wherever suits you, without travelling to a clinic. Telehealth is available for all appointments, medication management and many therapy appointments across NSW and Australia, with the same Medicare rebates as the equivalent in-person consultation.
Is what I say confidential?
Yes. Consultations are confidential, with limited exceptions where there is a serious risk to someone's safety or a legal requirement to disclose. Your psychiatrist can explain these limits if you wish.
Can I bring a support person?
Absolutely. You are welcome to bring a family member or support person to any appointment. Your psychiatrist will usually spend time with you first, and may, with your consent, speak with your support person to gather helpful background information.
Can the psychiatrist prescribe and manage my medication?
Yes. Psychiatrists at Mind Connections can prescribe medication and manage it over time. Whether your psychiatrist keeps managing it or hands prescribing back to your GP depends on your situation: some people are best supported by ongoing psychiatric review, while for others the GP is well placed to continue once a plan is in place. Your psychiatrist will discuss which approach suits you and keep your GP informed either way.
Getting Started
Your first appointment, made simple
Visit our 'What to expect' page to learn more about the booking process.
Obtain a referral
For psychiatry, ask your GP for a referral. For psychology, ask your GP for a Mental Health Care Plan and referral. This is what enables your Medicare rebates.
Book online or call us
Choose your clinician, location and time online, 24/7, or call our friendly reception team and we'll find a time that suits.
Attend your appointment
In person or by telehealth. Your first session is about understanding you, your history and what you'd like help with.