Your first session: what to expect
The hardest part is starting. Here's exactly what happens when you book with Spoken Word Psychology.
STEP 1
Get in touch.
Call, email, or ask for a call back. We’ll reply and find a time that suits you.
STEP 2
Get a GP referral (optional)
If you're eligible and would like a Medicare rebate, visit your GP for a Mental Health Treatment Plan and a referral letter. Prefer to go private? No referral is needed. Not sure? Book anyway and we'll help you sort it out.
STEP 3
Join by video
You’ll get a secure link by email. Find a private spot that feels right for you and join from there.
What happens in the first session
We'll talk about what brought you here, what you'd like to be different, and your story so far, going only as far as feels right for you. Your psychologist will explain how they work, and you can ask anything. By the end, we'll both have a sense of whether this is the right fit.
Getting ready for your online session
Your space
A private room where you can't be overheard by housemates, partners or children. A closed door helps.
Somewhere comfortable to sit, with your device on a steady surface.
If privacy is hard at home, a parked car (not while driving) or a room at work you can book can work. Tell us if you're not sure where.
Your tech
A device with a camera and microphone, charged or plugged in.
A stable internet connection. Headphones help with both sound and privacy.
A secure video link will be emailed to you. [Confirm the platform and whether any download is needed.]
If the connection drops, we'll call you on the number you gave us. Keep your phone nearby.
Your wellbeing
Tell us where you are at the start of each session. We need your address in case of an emergency.
We can only see people who are in Australia at the time of the session.
If it isn't safe or private to talk at home, tell us before the session, and we'll work out options together.
Please don't join while driving.
Frequently asked questions
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Not to book. You only need a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan if you want a Medicare rebate.
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A registered psychologist at Spoken Word Psychology. Each psychologist's profile lists their qualifications and training. You are always welcome to ask who is the best fit for what you're bringing. Our friendly admin team will call you first. They know our psychologists well, and will answer your questions and help match you with the right one.
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That's completely fine, and very common. Silence and tears are welcome here. We go at your pace.
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You don't need to compare. If it still affects you, it matters. Much of what we work with is quiet, long-term, and easy to dismiss.
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You never have to share anything before you're ready. When you are, you'll be met with understanding, not judgement. It's hard to say some things out loud for the first time, and it's taken seriously here.
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It varies. Some people come for a focused block of sessions. Others, working on long standing patterns, stay longer. We'll review progress together regularly.
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Research generally finds that therapy delivered by video works well for many people and concerns. Some people find it easier to open up from home.
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Yes, with psychologists trained in EMDR. It's adapted for video and set up together before any processing of difficult memories begins. Each psychologist's profile lists their training.
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Adults across Australia are welcome, as long as you're physically in Australia at the time of the session. We're on Australian Eastern time, so finding times that work across time zones can be a challenge for now. We hope to offer more flexibility as we grow. If you're unsure whether we can find a time that works for you, please get in touch.
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Yes. There are legal limits, such as risk of serious harm to you or someone else, or a court order. Your psychologist will explain these properly during your first session
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Yes. Adults of all genders are welcome.
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A private space, a device with a camera and microphone, and a stable internet connection. A pair of headphones helps with privacy.