Frequently Asked Questions
Appointment duration. Why 90 minutes?
The longer sessions allow for faster progress and help you reach your goals in a shorter space of time (so you overcome the distress sooner). If you have been to therapy previously, you will know that generally appointments are around 50 minutes long. With the time spent 'settling in' to the session, reviewing progress over the past week and then 'setting up' (planning) for any out of appointment activities (e.g. practicing techniques), it leaves limited time for 'active therapy' in the appointment. We prefer to optimise treatment outcomes whilst also reducing the number of sessions and period of time (i.e. weeks not months) you spend in therapy.
How many appointments will I need?
The number of sessions a person may require is dependant upon their goals and unique situation. For some people, overcoming single event incidents (e.g. car crash) can be achieved in as little as 3-4 appointments. When someone has experienced chronic, sustained or severe adversity or trauma, then more sessions are likely to be required.
Are appointments 'on-line' as effective as 'in person'
Research has demonstrated that online therapy is as effective as 'in person' therapy (this is consistent with our therapist's own findings). *Allows you to access specialist psychological therapy from virtually anywhere psychotherapy services). *Many people find 'online' therapy more comfortable and less confronting. *Our therapist is highly experienced at delivering online therapy. *We use purpose-built programs and platforms to deliver effective, seamless, online therapy.
Why are there no reviews or testimonials?
Vista Advanced Psychological Therapy's registered health professional(s) are regulated by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). AHPRA has developed guidelines to protect the public including that advertising must not: *use testimonials or purported testimonials about the service or business *create an unreasonable expectation of beneficial treatment.
Confidentiality & record keeping
All personal information gathered by Vista Advanced Psychological Therapy is confidential & stored securely for 7 years. Limits to the confidentiality include:  1). Subpoenaed by a court, or 2). Failure to disclose the information would place you or another person at serious & imminent risk; or 3). If disclosure is otherwise required or authorised by law; or 4). Your prior approval has been obtained to    a). Provide a written report to another professional or agency. E.g. solicitor, GP. etc.    b). Discuss the information with another relevant party. E.g. employer ​​ AHPRA registered health professionals have a mandatory (legal) reporting requirement to report to Child Safety reasonable suspicion that a child has suffered, is suffering or is at unacceptable risk of suffering significant harm.
Do I need a referral?
No, we welcome self referrals. We find it makes the process easier and less stressful for the individual. All you need to do is book your appointment via our website booking page.
Fees, Medicare & Health funds
Despite the extensive post graduate training required, unfortunately Medicare and Health Funds do not (yet) include Mental Health Nurses in their rebate programs. The Australian College of Mental Health Nurses (ACMHN) is lobbying this limitation, to increase the public's access to skilled, specialist trained mental health professionals. Our 90-minute appointments facilitates cost effective treatment, and by providing online therapy, we pass on savings from our reduced overhead costs with cheaper hourly rates for appointments.
IT Equipment requirements
Due to our flexible, online delivery of therapy, we are able to provide therapy to anyone, regardless of their location. All you need is a reliable internet connection and a computer / laptop or tablet (e.g. iPad) or mobile phone. We recommend wearing headphones to optimise your experience. You do not need to download or install any programs, we send you a unique, secure appointment link to your email.
Will I have to tell the therapist every detail of my life or what happened?
We do ask questions to help identify the most effective and efficient psychological approach to help you achieve your goals. Generally, a 'news headline' of what happened is sufficient to use as a target to re-process (overcome) the event/incident.
Click here to see our blog on 'Self care after a psychological therapy appointment"
Who do we provide services for?
We provide psychological therapy for adults (18+), with or without a referral, including NDIS participants (Self Managed & Plan Managed).
Cancellations
Click here for the therapy appointment and workshop terms, conditions & cancellation policy
Billing
All appointments are paid in full at the time of booking via the website booking page. Payments are made via a secure, encrypted payment process.
What is EMDR?
EMDR is the worlds most researched psychological therapy for trauma/adversity. Click on the 'CLICK HERE" link below to watch a video by EMDR International providing an overview of what EMDR is and how it works.