Psychologists consulting at Mind Connections provide evidence-based psychological therapy and assessment for a wide range of mental health conditions. Psychology appointments are available at both the Carlingford and Norwest clinics, and by telehealth across NSW.

Psychological therapy gives you a structured, supportive space to understand patterns in your thinking, feelings and behaviour, build practical skills for managing distress, and work towards meaningful change. Therapy is not about being told what to do. It is a collaborative process where your goals set the direction and your psychologist brings the expertise to help you get there.

Who psychology can help

Psychological therapy is effective for depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD and trauma, adjustment to major life changes, grief, relationship difficulties, stress and burnout, chronic pain, sleep difficulties, and many other concerns. It can be used on its own or alongside psychiatric care and medication. For many conditions, combining therapy with medical treatment produces better results than either alone.

Therapy approaches

Psychologists at Mind Connections draw on a range of evidence-based approaches, matched to your needs and goals. These may include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) informed approaches, schema therapy, mindfulness-based therapies, exposure and response prevention (ERP) for OCD, and trauma-focused therapies including EMDR. At your first appointment, your psychologist will discuss the approach they recommend and why, and you will agree on a plan together.

What to expect

Your first psychology appointment is an intake session, typically 50 to 60 minutes, where your psychologist gets to know you, your history, and what you want to achieve. From there, sessions usually run weekly or fortnightly. Progress is reviewed regularly, and the number of sessions depends on your goals and the nature of your concerns. Some people benefit from a short, focused block of sessions; others prefer longer-term support.

Referrals and rebates

Psychology appointments can be accessed with a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan, which provides Medicare rebates for up to 10 individual sessions per calendar year under the Better Access initiative. You can also attend with a standard GP or specialist referral, or privately without a referral. Private health fund rebates may apply depending on your extras cover, though Medicare and private health rebates cannot be claimed for the same session.

Group therapy programs

Group therapy programs run regularly at Mind Connections, covering areas such as anxiety management, emotional regulation skills, social reintegration, and condition-specific education. Groups are facilitated by experienced clinicians and offer the added benefit of connection with others facing similar challenges. Ask reception about currently available programs.

Frequently asked questions