How telehealth psychology works
Telehealth psychology is a live session with your psychologist, counsellor or ADHD coach by video or phone, from anywhere in Australia. Here is what to set up, what happens at each step and how your privacy is handled.
What a telehealth session involves
Each session is a live, one-to-one conversation by video or phone. You talk with your practitioner from a private space you choose. Each session has a set start time and length, like any booked appointment.
You meet the psychologist, counsellor or ADHD coach you chose from their profile. They ask what brought you here and listen. Before you log off, you agree your next step together.
- Live and one-to-one
- You talk live with your practitioner each session.
- Video or phone
- You pick video or phone when you book.
- Anywhere in Australia
- Join from any state or territory in Australia.
- Your chosen practitioner
- Read their profiles first, then book who fits.
What you need to join
Most people already have these at home. Check them the day before your first session.
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A phone or computer
Video needs a camera, a microphone and a recent browser or app. For a phone session, any phone works.
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A private, quiet space
Pick somewhere you can talk freely without being overheard. A closed bedroom, study or parked car all work well.
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A steady internet connection
Home wifi or a strong mobile signal handles video. If the call drops, you can keep going by phone.
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Optional headphones or earbuds
They help keep your conversation private and make your practitioner easier to hear. Any wired or wireless pair works.
Steps to your first session
Here is each step from your first message to your first session. Every step ends with your next one.
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Choose from the profiles
Read each profile for training, approach and next available times. Then book online or send us a question.
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Hear back from us
We aim to reply within one business day. Ask us anything about fees, Medicare or who to see.
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Receive fees in writing
Your fee, any Medicare rebate that may apply and the cancellation policy come in writing before you book.
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Get your joining details
You get your session time and joining steps for video or phone. Try the tech check below first.
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Meet your practitioner live
You talk live with your practitioner about what brought you here and what you would like help with.
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Agree your next step
Before logging off, you agree what comes next: more sessions, an assessment, a referral or no further care.
You choose video or phone
Both are live sessions with your practitioner. Pick the one that feels easier for you, and tell us when you book.
By video
- You see your practitioner's face and expressions on your screen
- Suits people who like seeing the person they talk to
- Runs on a phone, tablet or laptop with a camera
By phone
- You talk with your practitioner by voice, without a camera
- Handy when your internet is slow or your signal drops
- Some people find talking easier when nobody is on screen
Tell us which you prefer when you book. If you want to switch for a later session, let us know by email or phone.
How privacy works in your sessions
Here is how your information is handled, and what you can do on your side. No online service can remove every risk, so both of these lists matter.
What we do
- We send your session link only to you, by email or text message, before each session.
- Before your first session starts, your practitioner explains how sessions run and what your record holds.
- We handle your health information in line with Australian privacy law and with our Privacy Policy.
- The law sets a few limits on confidentiality. Your practitioner explains them in your first session.
What you do
- Join from a closed, private space where nobody else can hear your side of the call.
- Use your own device on a home or mobile network. Avoid public wifi if you can.
- Keep your session link to yourself. Close any other apps and tabs before the session starts.
- Tell your practitioner if anyone else is in the room or could overhear what you say.
When telehealth is not the right fit
Telehealth suits many adults who have a private space and a steady connection. Some needs are better met face to face. If so, your practitioner explains why and helps you plan the next step.
You can tell us at any time if video or phone sessions stop working for you. Contact us and we will go through your options.
Your practitioner may suggest
- Seeing a practitioner in person
- A review with your GP
- A referral to another service
- No further care for now
Telehealth is not suitable for every mental health concern. Your practitioner may suggest in-person care, a GP review or another service if that would suit you better.
PsyAus Health is not a crisis service. If you are in danger, call 000. For 24/7 support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
A little tech check before you join
Run through these the day before your first session. Then check them again a few minutes before you join.
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Plug in or charge
Start with a full battery, or keep your device plugged in throughout.
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Test camera and microphone
Open your camera app, or make a test call with a friend.
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Install any app updates
An updated browser or app helps the call connect and stay steady.
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Check your internet signal
Sit near your router, or move to a spot with better signal.
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Turn off your notifications
Silence alerts and close other apps so nothing pulls your focus away.
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Save our phone number
If you cannot connect, call 0450 374 670 and we will help.
Telehealth and in-person sessions
Both formats give you a live session with a qualified practitioner. Here is how they differ, so you can choose.
Questions about telehealth
Answers on setup, privacy and what happens if a call drops.
Still have a question? See all FAQs or contact us. We aim to reply within one business day.
What happens in a telehealth session?
You meet your practitioner live by video or phone. They ask what brought you here and what you would like help with. Before you log off, you agree your next step.
How do I join my session?
Your booking confirmation tells you how to join by video or phone. If a step is unclear, reply to that message or call us. We will talk you through it before your session starts.
What happens if the call drops during a session?
Try rejoining the video call first. If it keeps dropping, your practitioner may call your phone to finish the session. Keep it charged and nearby.
Can I change from video to phone?
Yes. You can choose video or phone for each session you book. Tell us your choice when you book, or email us before the day if you want to change it.
Can an ADHD or autism assessment run by telehealth?
Yes. Both adult assessments run live by video or phone with a psychologist. You fill in questionnaires online, and your report is sent securely. If an in-person assessment would suit you better, your psychologist explains why.
Can I join a session from my car or work?
Yes, if you are somewhere private and safe. In a car, park first and turn the engine off before your session starts.
Can I book if I live in a regional or remote area?
Yes. PsyAus Health is online only, so you can book from any state or territory. You need a phone and a private space.
Does Medicare cover telehealth psychology sessions?
Medicare rebates may apply to eligible telehealth psychology sessions. You need a Mental Health Treatment Plan from your usual GP or MyMedicare practice. You may claim on up to 10 individual sessions each calendar year. Counselling, ADHD coaching and the ADHD and autism assessments have no rebate. Your fee comes in writing before you book.
What if telehealth does not suit me?
Your practitioner tells you and explains why. They may suggest in-person care, a GP review, a referral or no further care. You can raise it with them too.
What if I need urgent help?
We are not a crisis service. If you are in danger, call 000. For 24/7 support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
Book your telehealth session
Choose your practitioner and pick a time. You leave your first session knowing your next step. Questions first? Send us a message.
Book an appointment