Preparing for your first appointment with East Sydney Psychologists

Book your appointment

We understand that it can be daunting to book an appointment with a psychologist. Whatever your concern or the well-being issues you would like to address, including depression, anxiety, addiction or trauma, getting help is easier than you think.

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You have already taken the first important step of seeking the support and guidance of a therapist, or in the case of parents, looking into counselling on behalf of your child or adolescent.

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How you move forward now is simple:

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• Talk to your trusted GP/Doctor about your mental health concerns or issues.

• Confirm with your GP if you are eligible for a Mental Health Care Plan, which allows for ten therapy sessions in the year, with a certain percentage refunded to you by Medicare. Our clinical psychologists are also available to see you privately if you do not wish to claim the rebate.

• Contact us (link) via phone, email or text and we will send you our Initial information pack with further information about our services and experienced therapists.

What to expect

Our offices in Balmain in Sydney's inner west and Maroubra and Randwick in the eastern suburbs provide a safe and welcoming place free from judgement. Our experienced clinical psychologists offer professional support with compassion and will work with you to collaboratively build a treatment plan to best help you achieve your mental health goals.

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You can expect your first session with East Sydney Psychologists to be a 'getting to know you' meeting between you and your psychologist. This is because we believe that an authentic connection built on trust is vital to success. It is a chance to ask any questions you have, share your primary concerns and get to know your therapist.

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During this time, your psychologist will perform an initial assessment, ask you about why you are starting therapy and will seek an understanding of what has been going on in your life leading to the session. Your psychologist will also discuss your therapy goals with you and ask what you strive to achieve through your therapy.

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Reasons people seek psychological therapy differ, and there is no right or wrong purpose – each individual is unique. Some reasons include:

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• Building coping strategies and skills to deal with their issues

• Looking for a non-judgmental sounding board to help them process what they are going through

• Seeking help improving certain aspects of their life

It is okay if all you want from therapy is to feel better!

Once you have finished your first session, you will most likely have many emotions and thoughts to process. This is perfectly normal, and each person will leave with a different experience - all your feelings will be valid, be they confronting, exhausting, comforting, relieving or motivating.

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Ready to book your first therapy appointment with us?

Contact East Sydney Psychologists here.