Mental Health
Many health professionals provide mental health services. Your doctor is often a good place to start for most mental health conditions. Doctors can provide treatment or refer you to other services for mental health. If you don’t have a regular doctor already, you can book in with Dr Mehdi Al-Zaini via our on-line booking system, Health Engine, or by calling us on 9466 2566.
Our practice:
- Fully bulk bills with a valid Medicare card
- Accepts private funds i.e. Bupa, Allianz, NIB, Medibank for overseas students
- Our practice is easily accessible in terms of location and opening hours
You will be made to feel comfortable talking to our doctor about how you are feeling, in a secure and confidential environment. They will help to provide support, assessment, ongoing care and referrals to psychologists, psychiatrists and other mental health services.
Tell your doctor:
- Your symptoms or how you feel
- Your concerns
- How what you feel has affected your life.
You can take a family member or close friend along for support; they can also help explain your situation to the doctor, and they can help remember the discussions you had.
Just a suggestion…
One way to get the most out of your visit is by asking questions. Writing a list of questions before the visit can help. A good starting point is:
- What are all of my options?
- What do you think are the best options for me?
- How much better might I feel?
- When might I feel better?
- How much does a doctor visit cost?
- How much does your Clinical Psychologist charge?
Medicare rebates are available for up to 10 individual and 10 group therapy sessions for people with a diagnosed mental disorder and a mental health care plan.
What is a Mental Health Care Plan
A mental health care plan is a plan your doctor writes with you about treating a mental health condition. It helps you to access eligible allied health professionals like psychologists, social workers or occupational therapists who can help you to get better and live well.
Your doctor will probably ask you many questions to assess your situation. Your healthcare needs, goals, treatment and referrals will be recorded in your mental health care plan and your patient medical record.
We have a visiting Clinical Psychologist, Dr Michael Groome, who attends our clinic every fortnight on a Tuesday afternoon. Our receptionists will be happy to book in an appointment for you.
Although he bills privately, Medicare does rebate you most of the cost. Please call us to ask about his private fees.
