FAQ

  • What approach is used with clients?


    1. Solution-Oriented: I employ a solution-focused approach to therapy. Rather than dwelling extensively on the problem, I work with clients to find practical solutions and strategies that can help them overcome their challenges and meet their goals.

    2. Interactive and Collaborative: My style of therapy is interactive. I believe in actively involving clients in their therapy process. Together, we identify desired outcomes and plan interventions to achieve these goals.

    3. Empowerment through Education: I strongly believe in empowering clients through education. Providing them with the necessary information about their mental health and well-being helps them make informed decisions about their therapeutic journey.

    4. Lifestyle Medicine Focus: My personal journey and professional interest in lifestyle medicine have made me appreciate the significance of lifestyle factors on health. I help clients understand and modify their lifestyles to improve their overall well-being.

    5. Holistic Approach: I view individuals in their entirety, considering all aspects of their life — physical, psychological, social, and spiritual. I strive to integrate these factors in my therapeutic approach, tailoring the treatment to suit the individual's unique circumstances.

    6. Evidence-Based Practice: I believe in employing interventions that are backed by robust research. Whether it's cognitive testing, health behaviour monitoring, or eHealth courses, I ensure that my practice is grounded in scientifically validated methods.

    7. Sensitive to Sexual Health Concerns: Given my background in sexual health, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for clients to discuss their sexual health concerns. I aim to integrate these aspects into the overall therapeutic process as and when required.

    8. Continuous Learning and Development: Therapy is a dynamic process. I am always looking to learn and improve my skills, so I can offer the best possible service to my clients. I am augmenting my skills by pursuing a Master's in Lifestyle Medicine.

    9. Compassionate and Understanding: Empathy is my approach’s core. I understand that every individual comes with their unique  set of experiences and challenges. My aim is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported.

    10. Collaborative: I believe in a collaborative approach, working together with my clients to identify their goals and develop a plan to achieve them. I also recognise the importance of collaboration within the healthcare community and will refer clients back to medical practitioners when necessary, promoting a coordinated, holistic approach to care


  • What is your fee structure?

    The full fee for private clients is $240.00 for a consultation.


    There is a discount rate for low-income earners of $133.00


    We do not usually bulk bill.

  • How long is a consultation?

    Clients are paying for a consultation not a fixed period of time.


    If Medicare rebates are being claimed there is a time component involved as the rebate depends on the length of a session.


    Usually, the session is between 50-60 minutes long. 


    Note: Interestingly there is no evidence that this amount of time is necessary for a psychological consultation.

  • Do you Bulk Bill?

    We are not a Bulk Billing Practice.

  • If I can not afford the fees are there alternative subsidy schemes?

    Available if you live, work or study in the Central Eastern Sydney Primary Health Network


    The Psychological Support Services (PSS) provides free short-term face-to-face, or via telehealth, psychological therapy for people experiencing mild to moderate mental health concerns that live, work, or study in the Central and Eastern Sydney region and are experiencing financial hardship.


    The eligibility criteria can be found here.


     The number of sessions is up to 18 (12+6)


     The CESPHN includes the areas from Bondi to the Sutherland Shire in the south, and as far west as Strathfield a postcode list can be found here


     To access this scheme your General Practitioner will need to complete an online PSS referral - this is NOT the same as a Medicare referral. To see Mark Anns ask the doctor to include his name on the PSS referral.




    Check your eligibility


     Full criteria click here

  • Do you prepare court reports?

    NO.


    If you require a report for court-related matters you are best served by finding a forensic psychologist or one that specialises in this type of work.

  • Do I need a referral?

    NO in general.


    However, if you are planning to claim the Medicare rebate YES you will require a medical referral to my practice.

  • What are lifestyle approaches that support mental health

    Lifestyle medicine practitioners focus on how
    dietary patterns, sleep patterns, levels of physical activity, drug and alcohol use, social connectedness, contact with nature, and stress levels impact physical and mental health.


    Mark incorporates these principles into his psychological practice.


    Mark also offers a separate service for those who wish to focus on changing their lifestyles.

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