How does The CCP work?

• When you first speak to the friendly administrative team you will be scheduled a free 10-15 minute time slot with one of our psychologists. This will enable the psychologist to speak with you to gauge if The CCP is a suitable service for you - we don’t want to waste your time if we know we aren’t the place for you!

• If you and the psychologist are happy to proceed they will schedule an appointment with you.

• Prior to your appointment you will be sent The CCP package; including an information sheet, intake form, a questionnaire and a consent form to complete prior to your session. This will inform you of confidentiality and also some general details about how the clinic operates.

• The first few sessions of therapy generally are information gathering sessions. This is so the psychologist can get to know your story so they can develop a treatment plan which will guide therapy for the following sessions.

Should I go to therapy?

It is a common misconception that a person should only access psychology support when they are extremely unwell. This can sometimes be the same as seeking medical treatment for a wound only when it is severely infected. Whether infected or not, the wound would benefit from medical attention. In the same way, psychology can be beneficial for people with both mild and extremely severe concerns.

How many sessions will I need?

Therapy length is dependent upon your specific circumstances. Your psychologist will develop a treatment plan with you in the first few sessions, and will check in frequently to ensure they are being helpful and you are working towards a collaborative goal. For treatment to be very effective research supports weekly sessions. In reality, your psychologist can be flexible and attempt to adjust the frequency to your needs. Know that it is unethical for a psychologist to continue therapy with someone who does not require support. The aim is not to keep you in therapy for the rest of your life.

Are our conversations private?

Yes they are. Your psychologist must not share your information without your consent. However, there are a few situations in which they may be required to breach confidentiality. These include:

• When they are concerned for your imminent safety

• When they are concerned for the safety of another or a child

• When they are required to by law

Do you do any report writing?

At the present moment The CCP does not provide NDIS, Workcover, forensic or legal reports.

Do you write support letters?

We do provide University or NDIS support letters. For a support letter a clinician will need to have at least three sessions with you to develop a professional opinion. Standard letter writing fees are $110 (this may vary with the depth of information required).

Do you work with children?

No, all clients must be 18 or over.

How does Telehealth work?

Prior to your session you will receive a confirmation email. This email will have detailed how to attend your appointment via Zoom. Please ensure you are in a secluded location with decent internet prior to your call. Test the link and inform the staff if you have any difficulties. Know the clinicians will not have a session with you if you are driving due to safety concerns.

Is this a crisis service?

The CCP is unable to provide 24/7 assistance. Please know the email and phone are not regularly monitored. If you do require immediate support please refer to the following Australian-based 24/7 services:

• Lifeline - 13 11 14

• Beyond Blue - 1300 22 4636

• Kids Helpline, for those aged 25 and under - 1800 55 1800

• Domestic Violence support - 1800RESPECT

• Mensline  - 1300 78 99 78