Counselling Psychotherapy Consulting & Corporate Psychology & Coaching

How does our multi-disciplinary training help?

Both Graeme & Deborah are qualified & registered Psychologists, but we originally trained as a Veterinarian & Registered Nurse respectively. Understanding of complex biology, anatomy, physiology & pathology helps underpin our study of psychology in a way most are untrained for. We each continue to update our knowledge in our professional fields. Psychology is not just theory, but based in how our brains & bodies function. Also APS Institute qualified: Practice Certificate in Sleep Psychology

How confidential is what I say to the Psychologist?

Confidentiality is vital to Psychologists who, like Doctors, are required to keep what you say private. Our records are also subject to privacy concerns. The only exceptions are when serious safety concerns or legal matters (Court subpoena) intervene. Our records are only accessible to the Psychologists unless you give informed consent to release them. Records are not kept on-site for security purposes except when seeing you.When minors are seen, parental or guardian consent may be required.

What is Evidence Based Practice (EBP)?

EBP requires that our practice of psychology is based in scientific evidence from sources such as academic journals, formal conferences & peer review (what I call Practice Based Evidence (PBE). Although there is still much to learn about human behaviour & relationships, much is known, but published in technical journals. Part of our job is to bring the most reliable & valid information to our clients & teach how to use that information to solve problems.Some can be found at www.cpccpc.com.au.

What is the difference between Psychologists and Counsellors?

Many Counsellors are not qualified or registered Psychologists. Some Counsellors have other qualifications although neither formal qualification nor registration is required to call yourself a Counsellor. Not all Psychologists are Counsellors, but many are. To practice as Psychologists we must be qualified with at least 6 years formal training with Board registration too. The title Psychologist requires this minimum standard and ongoing training to maintain registration.

Am I crazy? Some people think I have a mental illness or say I'm diagnosable for a mental disorder?

Probably not! We see many people, most of whom do not have a mental illness or disorder.On deeper examination,many are incorrectly diagnosed. We find most problem behaviour is a reaction to other people rather than a medical disease.Many people, who feel as-if they are crazy, are more likely being deceived by someone important to them. My eBook, Duped! Describes deception detection & can be bought on our website shop at www.cpccpc.com.au don't accept a diagnosis without seeking a 2nd opinion.

What does it cost? Isn't psychology expensive?

Professional Psychologists are formally trained for a minimum of 6 years. And quality treatment requires ongoing updates of research & Evidence Base Practice. At CPCCPC we greatly exceed the minimum requirements for ongoing Continuing Professional Education and focus on practical application of that knowledge. What makes it costly is not the hourly rate but how time is used effectively. This also depends on how much effort you put in between sessions to build lasting skills.

What is the difference between Psychologists and Psychiatrists?

Psychiatrists are firstly medical doctors who then specialise. They are able to medicate & hospitalize patients when affected by serious mental illness. Psychologists are trained outside the medical system for a minimum of 6 years formal training before qualification & Board registration. Psychologists are required to continue formal training after registration too. Our training emphasises human behaviour & relationships focusing on long term solutions to problems as well as symptom relief.

Are there any rebates on the professional fee charged?

Rebates may be available on part of the professional fee, like with doctor visits. Private Health Insurance can help but varies with the provider & the level of cover. Many now require use of a Mental Health Care Plan first, written by your doctor to access a Medicare rebate (for up to 10 sessions annually). As in Medicine, bulk-billing does not cover the real cost of delivery of the level of quality service that we offer. Of course the number of sessions is determined by the case complexity.

Where else can I find reliable information to help me understand my situation psychologically?

There is a wealth of information available.Some of it is entertaining but not really educational, & some is out of date or wrong. Quality information tends to be harder or costly to access, found in academic journals or university departments & may not be oriented to practical application.Updates to our website are designed to bring research data & practical application together at low cost or no cost where readily available.If it's education it might require more effort than if it's just fun.

What if wish to see either a male or female therapist: can I choose? Can I consult both?

We recognise that some issues are sensitive, so people might wish to see only one sex or the other. We both regularly deal with sex, gender or relationship issues of both sexes, but are happy to accommodate your needs within ethical limits. Most of these complex issues need to be understood from both sex's perspectives for resolution to occur. For some couples both viewpoints can be helpful in the long term & consultation with either can be arranged.