How to Find a Psychologist Near You - Including Anywhere in Australia via Telehealth
Use these seven simple steps to research, compare, and choose a telehealth psychologist in Australia, using your GP referral, online directories and personal preferences.
7 Steps to Find Your Ideal Psychologist
1.Review Your GP Referral
Even if your GP referral names one practitioner, Australian Medicare rules let you use that referral with any registered psychologist who offers telehealth. This freedom means you can select someone whose qualifications, approach, and availability best match your needs
Did you Know?
Your connection with your psychologist is the top predictor of positive therapy results. You are the best judge of whether you’ll work well with a psychologist, so taking the time to choose the right person can make a real difference in your therapy outcomes.
2. Define Your Needs
Write down the issues you want help with (for example, anxiety, trauma, or postnatal depression) and the therapy types you prefer (such as CBT, EMDR, or sensorimotor psychotherapy).
3. Search Online Directories
Use Google to search queries such as “Psychologist Near Me” and “Telehealth Psychologist”. You can also use Google Maps if you are a more visual person and the Yellow Pages if you prefer. There are also more specific online directories such as Psychology Today and AAPI’s “Find a Psychologist” tool. Whichever search method you use compile a shortlist as you go including information about each psychologist and/or practice.
4. Evaluate Profiles
Look at each psychologist’s qualifications, areas they work in (e.g. adults or children), and online content and blog posts. You also want to confirm they’re registered with AHPRA which can be done on AHPRA’s website.
5. Check Practical Details
Make sure they offer appointments at times you need, note their fees and bulk-billing options, and test their telehealth platform (Zoom, Doxy.me, etc.) beforehand to see if you like it.
6. Assess Personal Fit
Read their bio and view their photo. Think about what would make you feel comfortable, including gender preference, communication style, and whether you’d feel at ease if you bumped into them locally. If you’d rather remain more private, look beyond your area and choose a psychologist who offers telehealth or practises farther away.
7. Book a Session
Try one or two appointments. It can take up to three visits to decide if the rapport and approach feel right, saving you time and money in the long run.
Bonus Tips
Why Psychologists Can’t Use Testimonials
Psychologists, as registered health practitioners. This means they’re prohibited from using testimonials. This is due to their code of ethics and advertising guidelines. As a result, you won't have access to reviews or testimonials from other clients.
Search Phrases to Find a Psychologist
· Psychologists near me
· Telehealth psychologist
· “Location” Psychologist trained in “therapy type”
· Telehealth psychologist trained in “therapy type”.
· “Specific concern” psychologist. E.g. perinatal psychologist or ocd psychologist
· Telehealth “specific concern” psychologist
· Bulkbilling psychologist in “location” or “telehealth”
· Workcover psychologist
· Psychologist for women in e.g. business