Psychology in Carlton North, Melbourne

Because Being a Human Is Complicated

Relationships.

Anxiety.

Trauma.

Burnout.

Grief.

Family.

Work.

Identity.

The things that happened years ago that you thought you’d dealt with already.

And, occasionally, the fact that you seem to spend an unreasonable amount of your life dealing with other people’s nonsense.

Being human can be messy.

Psychology gives you a confidential, professional space to understand what’s happening beneath the surface and develop different ways of responding to the things that are making life difficult.

At The Urban Alchemist in Carlton North, our psychologists take a thoughtful, whole-person approach to mental health and emotional wellbeing.

You don’t need to arrive with a diagnosis.

You don’t need to be in crisis.

And you don’t need to have worked out exactly what’s “wrong.”

Sometimes:

“I don’t want to keep doing this the same way.”

is enough.

Book Now!

Not sure if Psychology is the right place to start? Contact our team on (03) 9347 9247.

Is Psychology Right for You?

People see psychologists for all sorts of reasons.

You might be experiencing:

Anxiety
Depression or low mood
Trauma or difficult past experiences
Burnout
Chronic stress
Grief and loss
Relationship difficulties
Family conflict
Low self-esteem
Shame
Difficulties with boundaries
Major life transitions
Emotional overwhelm
Workplace stress
Patterns that keep repeating despite your best intentions
Difficulty understanding or managing emotions
A diagnosed mental health condition
Questions about identity or direction
A general sense that life isn’t working particularly well at the moment

And sometimes nothing is dramatically “wrong.”

You may simply want to understand yourself better.

Why do I react like this?

Why do I keep choosing this?

Why is saying no so difficult?

Why does this particular person make me completely lose my mind?

Why am I incredibly competent in one part of my life and an absolute goose in another?

Excellent psychological material.

Our Psychologists

Fees

Standard Psychology Session – $215

Medicare rebates may be available where you have an eligible referral and Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP.

Your Medicare rebate and resulting out-of-pocket cost depend on the psychologist, appointment type and your eligibility.

Private health insurance rebates may also be available depending on your extras cover.

We have HICAPS available at the clinic for eligible on-the-spot private health claims. We recommend checking your cover directly with your health insurer before your appointment if you’re relying on a rebate.

If you’re planning to use NDIS funding, please contact our reception team before booking so we can confirm whether your practitioner and funding arrangement are suitable.

We also accept clients under DVA, TAC, Comcare, Worksafe and various other third-party insurers and funding bodies, please ask us if yours is eligible.

Ready to Talk About the Stuff We Don’t Usually Talk About?

You don’t need to know exactly where the conversation will go.

You just need somewhere to begin.

Book Now!

Not sure which practitioner is right for you? Contact our team on (03) 9347 9247.

What Is Psychology?

Psychology is the scientific study of human thoughts, emotions and behaviour.

Psychological therapy uses that understanding to help people explore what they’re experiencing, recognise patterns and develop ways of responding that may make life more manageable, meaningful or satisfying.

Yes, talking is usually involved.

But good psychological therapy is much more than paying someone to listen while you recount your week.

Depending on what brings you in and how your psychologist works, therapy may involve:

Understanding patterns in your thoughts, emotions and behaviour
Exploring past experiences
Identifying triggers
Understanding relationship dynamics
Developing emotional regulation skills
Working with avoidance
Learning different ways of responding to difficult thoughts
Exploring values
Practising boundaries
Developing communication skills
Behavioural strategies
Working with trauma
Building psychological flexibility
Understanding the relationship between your experiences and the way you respond now

Sometimes therapy is practical and strategy-focused.

Sometimes it goes much deeper.

Often it’s both.

You Don’t Need a Mental Health Diagnosis to See a Psychologist

This is worth making very clear.

Psychologists don’t only work with diagnosed mental illness.

You can see a psychologist because you’re:

Struggling.

Stuck.

Overwhelmed.

Confused.

Grieving.

Burnt out.

Repeatedly ending up in the same relationship dynamic.

Having trouble saying no.

Trying to understand yourself.

Or simply wanting a professional space to examine your life more carefully.

You don’t need to wait until everything has gone completely sideways.

A Whole-Person Approach to Psychology

People don’t exist as a collection of isolated symptoms.

Your mental health may be influenced by your:

Relationships
Family
Childhood experiences
Physical health
Work
Finances
Culture
Identity
Sleep
Stress
Neurobiology
Environment
Community
Experiences of trauma
Current circumstances

A whole-person approach means being curious about the broader context of your life rather than reducing everything to a symptom checklist.

That doesn’t mean abandoning evidence-based psychological care.

It means remembering that the person sitting in the room is more complicated than their diagnosis.

Psychology for Anxiety

Anxiety can look like obvious fear.

But it can also look like:

Overthinking.

Constant planning.

Reassurance seeking.

Avoiding things.

Difficulty making decisions.

Replaying conversations.

Perfectionism.

Physical tension.

Trying to predict every possible outcome before allowing yourself to relax.

Your psychologist can help you understand the patterns maintaining anxiety and develop different ways of responding to uncomfortable thoughts, feelings and uncertainty.

Psychology for Depression and Low Mood

Depression can affect mood, motivation, sleep, appetite, concentration, relationships and the way you experience yourself and the future.

Sometimes it looks like profound sadness.

Sometimes it looks like:

I don’t really feel anything anymore.

Psychological therapy can help explore what’s happening and develop approaches appropriate to your particular circumstances.

If depression is severe, your psychologist may also recommend involving your GP or psychiatrist as part of your care.

Psychology for Trauma

Trauma can affect people in very different ways.

You might experience:

Intrusive memories
Nightmares
Avoidance
Hypervigilance
Emotional overwhelm
Numbness
Shame
Relationship difficulties
Feeling unsafe even when intellectually you know you’re safe
Strong reactions you don’t completely understand

Trauma therapy isn’t simply retelling terrible experiences until they stop hurting.

Good trauma-informed psychological care considers safety, readiness, emotional regulation and the therapeutic relationship.

Depending on your needs and practitioner, different therapeutic approaches may be appropriate, including EMDR or Trauma Release Therapy.

Psychology for Burnout

Burnout isn’t simply:

“I need a weekend away.”

It can develop when chronic workplace stress isn’t being successfully managed and may involve exhaustion, increasing distance or cynicism towards work and reduced professional effectiveness.

Psychology can help you explore not only how you’re coping, but what’s actually happening around you.

Workload.

Boundaries.

Responsibility.

Perfectionism.

Values.

Workplace culture.

The belief that apparently you personally must prevent the entire organisation from collapsing.

Sometimes the work is about changing how you respond.

Sometimes the environment itself needs to change.

Often both deserve attention.

Psychology for Grief and Loss

Grief doesn’t follow a neat sequence.

There is no psychologically correct timetable for becoming “better.”

Psychological support can provide somewhere to talk about loss without worrying that you’re upsetting somebody, repeating yourself or taking too long.

Grief may follow:

Bereavement
Relationship endings
Pregnancy loss
Illness
Family estrangement
Loss of identity
Changes in health
Major life transitions

Sometimes the work isn’t about getting over what happened.

It’s learning how to carry it differently.

Psychology and Relationships

A lot of the things we struggle with become particularly visible in relationships.

Boundaries.

Attachment.

Communication.

Conflict.

Fear of rejection.

People pleasing.

Avoidance.

Over-functioning.

Under-functioning.

Trying to control somebody else’s emotional state so you don’t have to experience your own discomfort.

Humans are fascinating.

And occasionally exhausting.

Psychology can help you understand what happens inside you when relationships become difficult and develop different ways of responding.

That doesn’t mean every relationship problem is secretly yours.

Sometimes the other person really is behaving badly.

Therapy can help you become clearer about that too.

Boundaries

Some folks simply spend their time with a$$holes.

But even when somebody else is genuinely difficult, psychology can help with the part you actually have some influence over:

What do I do next?

That might involve:

Saying no
Tolerating somebody else’s disappointment
Communicating more directly
Recognising manipulation
Stepping out of repeated arguments
Asking clearly for what you need
Allowing other adults to manage their own emotions
Leaving situations that repeatedly harm you

Boundaries aren’t about controlling what somebody else does.

They’re about becoming clearer about what you will do.

What Is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy – CBT?

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, or CBT, is one of the most extensively researched psychological therapies.

CBT explores relationships between thoughts, emotions and behaviours.

Depending on the problem being treated, it may involve identifying patterns of thinking, changing behaviours, gradually approaching avoided situations, developing coping strategies and testing beliefs against experience.

It isn’t simply:

Think positive thoughts and everything will be fine.

Thankfully.

Good CBT is considerably more sophisticated than inspirational fridge magnets.

What Is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy – ACT?

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, usually pronounced as the word ACT, is an evidence-based psychological approach that focuses on psychological flexibility.

ACT doesn’t ask you to eliminate every uncomfortable thought or emotion.

Which is fortunate, because human brains are extremely enthusiastic producers of both.

Instead, ACT helps people develop different relationships with their internal experiences.

That may involve learning to:

Notice thoughts without automatically obeying them
Make room for uncomfortable emotions
Become more present
Clarify what is genuinely important to you
Take action guided by values
Respond more flexibly rather than automatically avoiding discomfort

The goal isn’t:

I will never feel anxious, ashamed, angry or sad again.

It’s closer to:

Can I make room for being human and still build a life that feels like mine?

We rather like that.

What Does “Evidence-Based” Psychology Mean?

Evidence-based psychological practice doesn’t mean every client receives the same treatment.

It means clinical decisions are informed by:

The best available research
The psychologist’s clinical expertise
Your individual needs, characteristics, culture, values and preferences

A strong therapeutic relationship is also an important part of effective psychological care.

Therapy isn’t something performed at you.

It’s collaborative.

Finding the Right Psychologist

Qualifications and experience are important.

So is the therapeutic approach being used.

But there is another, much less technical question:

Do you actually feel comfortable talking to this person?

The relationship between client and therapist can have a significant influence on psychological therapy.

You don’t need your psychologist to be your best friend.

But you should gradually feel that you can be honest.

Including about things that are embarrassing.

Contradictory.

Unflattering.

Or difficult to admit.

If you’re spending the entire appointment trying to impress your psychologist, there may be some excellent therapy material in that too.

What Happens in Your First Psychology Appointment?

Your first appointment is usually about beginning to understand:

What brings you in
What’s happening now
Relevant history
What you’d like help with
How the problem affects your life
What you’ve already tried
What is important to you
Whether there are any immediate risks or concerns

Your psychologist may ask questions that range across different parts of your life.

You don’t need to tell them everything immediately.

Trust develops over time.

Together, you’ll begin developing an understanding of what may be useful to work on.

Will I Receive a Diagnosis?

Not necessarily.

Psychologists can assess and diagnose mental health conditions within their professional scope, but not every person seeking psychological therapy needs or receives a diagnosis.

Sometimes diagnosis is useful.

It can provide language.

Direction.

Access to support.

Understanding.

Sometimes the work is more focused on particular difficulties or patterns without needing to organise the entire experience around a diagnostic label.

Your psychologist can discuss this with you.

How Long Does Psychology Take?

Ah.

The question everybody would like answered with:

Exactly six sessions.

Unfortunately, human beings refuse to be that tidy.

The length of therapy depends on factors including:

What you’re seeking help with
How long it has been happening
Complexity
Your goals
The therapeutic approach
How you’re responding
Practical considerations such as finances and availability

Some people benefit from relatively brief psychological interventions.

Others undertake longer-term therapy.

Your psychologist should review progress with you rather than assuming therapy continues indefinitely.

How Often Will I Need Appointments?

That depends on you and the work you’re doing.

Appointments might initially occur weekly or fortnightly.

They may become less frequent over time.

There is no universal schedule that every person needs to follow.

Your psychologist can recommend a frequency and discuss it with you.

Do Psychologists Prescribe Medication?

No.

Psychologists in Australia do not prescribe medication.

If your psychologist thinks medication assessment could be useful, they may recommend discussing this with your GP or psychiatrist.

Medication and psychological therapy aren’t opposing camps.

For some conditions and some people, one may be appropriate.

For others, a combination can be useful.

The right approach depends on your individual circumstances.

Do I Need a Referral?

You can generally book a private psychology appointment without a referral.

However, if you want to access a Medicare rebate, you will generally need an eligible referral and Mental Health Treatment Plan from a GP or another eligible referring practitioner.

If you’re unsure what you need, contact reception on (03) 9347 9247.

Medicare Rebates for Psychology

Eligible clients may be able to access Medicare rebates for psychology sessions under a Mental Health Treatment Plan.

The number of rebated sessions available and the rebate amount are determined by current Medicare rules and your individual circumstances.

Because Medicare arrangements and rebate amounts can change, we recommend checking the current rebate when booking rather than relying on an old figure preserved forever on the internet.

Reception can also help explain how claiming works.

Can I Claim Psychology Through Private Health Insurance?

Depending on your extras cover and practitioner, you may be eligible for a private health insurance rebate for psychology.

HICAPS is available for eligible on-the-spot claims.

Check directly with your insurer if you’re relying on a particular rebate.

Psychology and NDIS

Some people may be able to use appropriate NDIS funding for psychology where the service relates to their disability-related goals and is permitted under their plan and funding arrangements.

Eligibility isn’t automatic simply because somebody has an NDIS plan.

If you’re hoping to use NDIS funding for Psychology at The Urban Alchemist, contact reception on (03) 9347 9247 before booking so we can confirm whether the practitioner and your funding arrangement are suitable.

Telehealth Psychology

Psychological therapy doesn’t always require being in the same room.

Telehealth appointments can be particularly useful if you:

Live regionally
Travel
Have mobility limitations
Find attending the clinic difficult
Simply prefer therapy from your own space

Whether Telehealth is clinically appropriate depends on your circumstances and practitioner.

Our team can help you explore the available options.

Psychology vs Counselling and Psychotherapy

There can be substantial overlap between these services.

Psychologists are regulated health professionals who have completed accredited psychology training and registration requirements.

Counsellors and psychotherapists may come from different training pathways and often work with emotional, relational and life difficulties using a range of therapeutic approaches.

The best option depends on what you’re seeking help with, the practitioner’s expertise and the therapeutic relationship.

If you’re unsure, call us on (03) 9347 9247.

Psychology vs Psychiatry

Psychologists and psychiatrists have different professional training.

Psychologists are trained in psychological assessment and therapy.

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialise in mental health and can prescribe medication.

Some people work with one.

Some work with both.

It depends on your needs.

When You Need More Urgent Mental Health Support

The Urban Alchemist is not an emergency mental health service.

If you’re in immediate danger or at risk of harming yourself or somebody else, call 000 or attend your nearest emergency department.

If you need immediate crisis support in Australia, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.

For ongoing but non-emergency mental health concerns, your GP can also help you determine what level of care is appropriate.

Frequently Asked Questions About Psychology

Do I need to have a mental illness to see a psychologist?

No.

People see psychologists for diagnosed mental health conditions, but also for stress, relationships, grief, burnout, trauma, boundaries, life transitions and personal growth.

Will a psychologist tell me what to do?

Generally, therapy is more collaborative than that.

A psychologist can help you understand what’s happening, explore possibilities and develop strategies.

The aim isn’t to become professionally dependent on somebody else making your decisions.

What if I don’t know what to talk about?

That’s okay.

You don’t need to arrive with an agenda and PowerPoint presentation.

Your psychologist can help begin the conversation.

What if I cry?

Extremely normal.

What if I don’t cry?

Also extremely normal.

Therapy isn’t measured in tissues.

Is everything confidential?

Psychologists have professional and legal obligations around confidentiality.

There are circumstances where information may need to be disclosed, including particular situations involving serious safety concerns or legal requirements.

Your psychologist will explain confidentiality and its limits as part of your care.

Can psychologists diagnose mental health conditions?

Registered psychologists can undertake psychological assessment and diagnose mental health conditions within their professional competence and scope.

Not every psychology client requires a diagnosis.

Can psychologists prescribe medication?

No.

Psychologists in Australia do not prescribe medication.

Do you offer ACT?

Therapeutic approaches depend on the individual psychologist.

If you’re specifically seeking Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, check the practitioner profile or contact reception on (03) 9347 9247 before booking.

Do you offer CBT?

Again, this depends on the practitioner.

Our psychologists draw from approaches appropriate to their training and the needs of the individual client.

How many psychology sessions will I need?

There is no standard number.

Some problems respond well to relatively brief intervention, while more complex or longstanding difficulties may benefit from longer-term therapy.

Can I get a Medicare rebate?

Eligible clients with an appropriate referral and Mental Health Treatment Plan may be able to access Medicare rebates.

Current eligibility and rebate arrangements should be confirmed at the time of booking.

Can I use NDIS funding?

Potentially, depending on your plan, goals, funding management and the psychologist.

Contact reception before booking if you intend to use NDIS funding.

Do you offer Telehealth?

Yes, Telehealth Psychology appointments may be available depending on the practitioner and your circumstances.

How do I choose the right psychologist?

Start with the practitioner’s areas of interest, therapeutic approaches and experience.

Then pay attention to fit.

If you’re unsure, contact our reception team on (03) 9347 9247 and tell us a little about what you’re looking for.

We’ll help point you in the right direction.

Psychology in Carlton North, Melbourne

You don’t have to wait until you’re falling apart to talk to somebody.

You don’t need the perfect language for what you’re experiencing.

And you don’t need to become a different person before therapy has “worked.”

Psychology can be a place to get curious.

About what happened.

What keeps happening.

What you’re afraid of.

What you want.

What you avoid.

What you care about.

And what might become possible if you stop responding to everything in exactly the same way.

Sometimes that means learning practical strategies.

Sometimes it means understanding old patterns.

Sometimes it means finally saying something you’ve never said out loud.

And sometimes it means realising:

Ohhhhh. THAT’S why I do that.

Useful information.

Our psychologists support clients from Carlton North, Carlton, Fitzroy, Fitzroy North, Clifton Hill, Brunswick East, Northcote, Collingwood and across Melbourne.

Telehealth appointments may also be available.

Ready to Talk About the Messy Stuff?

Book Now!

Not Sure Who to Book With? Contact Us on (03) 9347 9247