Telehealth Therapy FAQs – Common Questions About Online PsychologY
FAQs
Yes! Common Ground Therapy provides secure telehealth sessions to adults anywhere in Australia. Whether you live in a major city or a regional area, you can access professional psychological support from the comfort of your home. Telehealth appointments are fully confidential, flexible, and designed to provide the same high-quality care as in-person sessions.
Do you offer telehealth appointments Australia-wide?
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Can I work with you if I’m not in Perth?
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Absolutely. While Common Ground Therapy is based in Perth, telehealth appointments allow me to work with clients across Australia. You don’t need to be in Perth to benefit from therapy — all sessions are conducted online via secure video conferencing, making therapy accessible no matter where you are.
Yes, research shows that telehealth therapy is highly effective for a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, burnout, and relationship challenges. Many clients find that online therapy is more convenient, reduces travel stress, and still provides a safe, supportive, and confidential space for personal growth.
Is telehealth therapy as effective as in-person therapy?
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Do I need a GP referral for telehealth psychology?
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No referral is needed to book an appointment with Common Ground Therapy. You can book directly online or by email. If you want sessions to be covered by Medicare, you will need a GP referral under a Mental Health Care Plan. We can guide you through this process if needed — just reach out.
What issues can I address with telehealth therapy?
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Telehealth therapy is effective for a wide range of mental health and wellbeing concerns, including:
Anxiety and Phobias
Stress and Burnout
Relationship Challenges
Emotional Regulation Difficulties
Depression and Low Mood
Grief and Loss
Life Transitions and Adjustment
Self-Esteem and Self-Confidence
No matter where you live in Australia, these issues can be addressed via secure telehealth sessions or in-person if you are based in Perth.
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WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW ABOUT GP REFERRALS AND MENTAL HEALTH CARE PLANS?
The world of GP Referrals and Mental Health Care Plans can be confusing.
Both are needed to claim a Medicare rebate and specific information is needed on each document in order for it be used.
A GP Referral acts as a cover letter from your GP. It explains why you’re being referred, what type of Mental Health Care Plan you are on (Initial or Review) and the number of sessions you are eligible for (6 or 4). A referral also includes your GPs details, their provider number and their signature. Your Mental Health Care Plan isn’t valid without a referral.
A Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) is a more structured document with specific sections for your GP to fill out regarding your circumstances and medical history. It needs to specify a Medicare item number as this will tell your Psychologist whether it is your initial plan or a review. It should also be signed and dated by your GP.
The following information is required on your referral in order for it to be accepted by Common Ground Therapy.
Initial MHCP:
Your GPs provider number, address, phone number, full name and signature.
Your full name and date of birth.
Date of Initial Plan.
The type of referral and the number of sessions it provides. Your initial plan will be called ‘Initial’ and allow for 6 sessions.
Diagnosis e.g. Adjustment Disorder, Anxiety, Depression etc.
Review MHCP:
Needs to contain your GPs details (provider number, address, phone number, full name and signature).
Addressed to Common Ground Therapy.
Specifies an item number (e.g. 2712) or specifies type of plan (e.g. 'Review')
Needs to specify the number of sessions. In this instance, your GP can refer you for 4 sessions.
Diagnosis.
How do I start my first session?
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Booking your first session is simple. You can schedule online through our booking system or contact us by email. You will receive a secure video link prior to your session, along with instructions on how to prepare. Telehealth sessions can be attended on your computer, tablet, or smartphone from anywhere in Australia.
Are in-person sessions available?
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Yes. As of March 2026, we offer monthly in-person therapy sessions at Brecken Health in Bunbury. You are welcome to choose face-to-face, online, or a combination of both — whatever feels most supportive and convenient for you.
We are also currently searching for a suitable space in Perth and hope to offer face-to-face sessions there soon. Updates will be shared as soon as a location is confirmed.
Ready to begin?
Whether you are in Perth or anywhere in Australia, you can access secure online therapy today. Book your first session or schedule a complimentary 15-minute discovery call to see if telehealth is right for you.