Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have more information about the assessment process for ADHD and ASD?
At Blueprint Psychology, we are committed to providing a supportive and neuroaffirming environment for all our clients seeking ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) assessments. Our comprehensive assessment process involves the following steps:
1. Initial Consultation with Principal Psychologist:
Your journey begins with a one-on-one initial consultation with our principal or lead psychologist. During this session, we will discuss your background information, prior diagnoses, administer screeners if needed and review any relevant referrals. Our psychologist will also guide you through the assessment process and recommend the most suitable course of assessment or treatment for your specific needs. In some cases, the recommended course may be to not proceed with assessment but engage in therapy. You may choose to engage in therapy with one of our psychologists if suitable, or engage elsewhere. You are also welcome to engage in second opinions.
The initial consult fee is $245, which will be subtracted from the total cost if you decide to proceed with the assessment after the initial consultation. There is no additional charge if you do not proceed with assessment, or therapy with Blueprint Psychology. The initial consultation takes approximately 50 minutes and can be conducted via telehealth. If there is an extensive amount of documentation or diagnoses to discuss, we may schedule a longer session. Please note that we do not provide written reports from initial consults alone - comprehensive written reports are provided when you continue with the assessment process outlined below.
2. Assessment Phase:
Following the initial consultation, we move into the assessment phase. Our experienced team conducts in-depth evaluations, utilising standardised tools and personalised interviews to gather essential information.
3. Scoring, Coding, and Reporting:
Once the assessments are complete, our team meticulously scores and codes the data. We then generate comprehensive reports, providing valuable insights into the assessment outcomes.
Combined ADHD/ASD Assessments:
If you are considering both ADHD and ASD assessments, rest assured that only one initial consultation is required. Our principal psychologist will advise you on the best approach, which may include a combination of assessments, and discuss potential cost adjustments.
Therapy Sessions for ADHD/ASD:
We offer therapy sessions for both ADHD and ASD, conducted by experienced registered psychologists and provisional psychologists. Registered psychologist therapy sessions cost $245, and you may claim a Medicare rebate if you have a mental health care plan from your GP. Provisional psychologist therapy sessions cost $135, but Medicare rebates cannot be claimed.
Please feel free to reach out to us at 1300 490 901 if you have any questions or would like to book your initial consultation. You can also book your initial assessment interview online via our client portal. Our compassionate team is here to support you on your journey to better understanding and growth. We look forward to assisting you at Blueprint Psychology.
What Services Do You Provide?
At Blueprint Psychology, we offer a comprehensive range of tailored psychology services, including:
· Psychometric assessments for adults and children
· Diagnosis and treatment of autism and other developmental disorders
· Counselling and interventions for individuals, couples, and families
· ADHD coaching and Neuroaffirming therapy.
· Family and couples counselling.
· Vocational and careers guidance and counselling.
· LGBTQIA+ friendly and culturally respectful counselling.
Do You Bulk-Bill?
No, we do not offer bulk-billed sessions through Medicare. Our commitment to providing high-quality services means that we do not compromise on the level of care our clients receive.
Bulk-billing would significantly reduce the rate to just $93.35 per hour, which is less than 30% of the industry's recommended rate of $300 set by the Australian Psychological Society. Instead, we prioritise delivering exceptional care and maintaining our service standards to ensure the best possible outcomes for our clients.
Please see below for some free services available to those who are in need of no or low-cost services:
Here are some free counselling services:
Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 or chat – mental health support and information
Lifeline Australia – 13 11 14 or chat – 24/7 service for personal crisis
Mensline Australia – 1300 789 978 – 24/7 counselling service for men
Kids Helpline – 1800 551 800 – for children and young people aged 5 to 25
NSW Mental Health Line – 1800 011 511 – speak to a mental health professional
Mindspot – free mental health courses and therapy sessions for adults (18 and older)
Head to Health – 1800 595 212 – free services at mental health centres and pop-up clinics
Headspace – in-person, phone and online support for young people aged 12–25 years
How Do I Get a Medicare Rebate or Other Concessions?
To claim a Medicare rebate, obtain a Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP. We also offer services through NDIS, SIRA (Workcover and CTP), and health funds. Call us for more information.
How Can I Choose the Right Therapist or Therapy?
We have a team of 8 therapists practising diverse counselling styles to meet individual needs. Our clinical intake team, with backgrounds in allied health, is trained to match you with the best therapist for your specific mental health needs. You can review our team profiles or call us at 1300 490 901 for personalised guidance.
How Should I Prepare for My First Session?
Upon booking your first appointment, we will send you a short intake form via email. Just bring yourself, as there's no right or wrong way to prepare for the session. If you have any previous reports or assessments, feel free to bring them along.
Please note that we do not accept cash, and you will need a valid debit or credit card to make payment.
What Therapeutic Methods Do You Use?
We utilise a wide range of evidence-based frameworks, taking a client-centred approach. Our methods include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Psychoeducation, Relaxation Strategies, Interpersonal Therapies, Solutions-Focused Therapies, DBT, and more.
How Does Confidentiality Work in Counselling?
Confidentiality and trust are fundamental in therapy. Your discussions with your therapist will remain private and confidential, unless your safety or the safety of others is at risk or written consent is given to share relevant information with a third party.
How Do You Track and Measure My Progress in Therapy?
Each therapist uses a combination of clinical assessment tools, rating scales, self-reporting, and collaborative feedback to monitor your progress. We discuss your progress during each session and adjust the treatment plan accordingly.
What If I (or My Child) Do Not Feel Comfortable with My Therapist?
Effective therapy requires a good therapeutic relationship. If you feel uncomfortable or believe a different fit would be better, please inform us. We will address your concerns and refer you to a more suitable professional.
Please contact us at complaints@blueprintpsychology.com.au
How Long Do I Have to Wait for an Appointment?
We prioritise timely access to care and can generally book you in with your preferred therapist within a week. For urgent appointments, we can accommodate you within 48 hours.
How Do I Book an Appointment or Change/Cancellation?
You can book an appointment online or call our compassionate clinical intake team at 1300 490 901. If you need to change or cancel, please provide at least 24 hours' notice by phone. Please read about our cancellation/no-show policy here.
Do I Need a Referral to See a Psychologist?
You do not need a referral unless you're claiming Medicare rebates or are referred by an insurer through SIRA/Workcover
What Are Your Office Hours and Where Do Sessions Occur?
Our clinical intake team is available from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm Monday to Friday and from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on Saturdays. We have psychologists available from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm on weekdays and from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on Saturdays. Sessions can occur in-person at our Alexandria location or via Telehealth through phone or video conferencing.
How long do sessions go for?
At Blueprint Psychology, your therapy session and assessment intake sessions are for 50 minutes. If you are running late, your psychologist cannot extend the time, as they need to write notes and prepare for the next session (as well as take bathroom breaks and hydrate!). Please be respectful of the start and end time of sessions.