Parents and Guardians – What to Expect?
Unsure of what to expect at your child’s Psychology appointments? This resource is for you! Designed to create some peace of mind, answer frequently asked questions and communicate clearly to ensure that you and your child have the best possible experience.
Consultations
Appointments usually range from 45-60 minutes. However, depending on the age of your child, this time can be flexible and may end sooner for the benefit and wellbeing of your child.
- You are welcome during the first 5 minutes of the consultation to discuss support and appointment planning. I will then check in with your child so they can decide to continue with the Psychologist alone, or with you.
- To provide the best support, we want to get to know your child. I will explore what matters most to your child, including an understanding of home life, school, sleep, emotions, stress/worry, relationships and hobbies.
- A written management plan will be provided for your child and is regularly updated with strategies to help your child stay focused and achieve their goals. To protect and foster the therapeutic relationship I will leave it up to your child if they want to share this with you.
- You are invited to discuss an overview of your child’s progress at the end of every consultation where we may also discuss future bookings and availability.
Privacy & Confidentiality Requirements
Everything discussed in session remains confidential and there are 3 situations where the information is required to be passed on:
- If the Psychologist believes that your child is at risk of harm to themselves and/or others
- If the Psychologist notes are subpoenaed by the court
- Communication with referring practitioner (if applicable)
What is discussed in session remains confidential, unless the Psychologist has the child’s consent to share more information with you OR by doing so will ensure your child’s safety/best interest.
Future Bookings
Psychologists are in high demand. It is recommended to book future appointments for continuity of treatment. It is your responsibility to communicate with us and book future appointments for your child.
Availability
‘Out of school’ appointments are limited. More appointments are available during usual business hours.
Waitlist Procedures
If the available appointment times do not suit you, you are invited to place your child on our waitlist – if a previously booked appointment becomes available, you will be contacted and offered the available time. If you are unable to attend, you will remain on the waitlist. The waitlist is regularly reviewed and updated to ensure that we can help you as soon as possible.
FAQs
- Am I required to remain in the wait-room during my child’s appointment?
Short answer is yes. If your child is under the age of 14, it is in the best interest and safety of your child that you are required to remain in the wait-room during the full duration of the consultation. If the child’s parent/s are unable to, then the child must be accompanied by a responsible guardian. This is to ensure the safety of your child. For example, to support your child if they require a toilet break or the rare occasion of a child deciding to leave the room/building during the session, we cannot physically stop them. - Will I get updates on the appointments?
Yes, you will receive text reminders and confirmations before each appointment.
- Can I get the Psychologist to speak to my child’s school?
The Psychologist can communicate with your child’s school as long as they have the child’s consent to do so. This is something that you may like to discuss and plan with the Psychologist during the first or last 5 minutes of the consultation.
We are always here to help, so if you have any further questions please don’t hesitate to ask any member of the team or reach us at (03) 5298 1147.
Written by:
Rebecca Newton
Provisional Psychologist
