Dear Valued Clients,

As a psychologist I care deeply about the wellbeing of the communities I serve. Therefore, I am following the guidelines provided to my professional organisations in response to coronavirus (COVID-19) to help contain its spread.

Our counselling service will continue on Saturdays 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or by evening appointment during the week.
Phone counselling may be organised now that face-to-face counselling is not possible, and online counselling options are available via https://cared4.coviu.com/room/@debramainwaring

There are bulk billed options for those affected by or at risk of the virus that are funded by Medicare. These items form part of the 10 services allowed per year under the Better Access to mental health care initiative:

Vulnerable and isolated clients are eligible to receive telehealth services provided by a psychologist if:

• • the person has been diagnosed with COVID-19 virus but who is not a patient of a hospital; or

• • the person has been required to isolate themselves in quarantine in accordance with home isolation guidance issued by Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC); or
  • at least 50 years old and is of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent; or
    • • at least 70 years old;
      • or the person is considered more susceptible to the COVID-19 virus being a person who is:
      • is pregnant; or
      • is a parent of a child under 12 months; or
      • is already under treatment for chronic health conditions or is immune compromised; or
      • the person meets the current national triage protocol criteria for suspected COVID-19 infection.

If you are not eligible for the above services you are welcome to book a private session but will not yet be able to access a rebate (although this advice is likely to change after the weekend).

If you have been affected by the Bushfires you do not need a referral for Telehealth (phone or videolink) and these sessions can also be bulk billed.

Call the national Coronavirus Health Information Line on 1800 020 080 for further information and advice on COVID-19.
If you (or a loved one) are developing mental health issues triggered by COVID-19, you can give me a call to access support.
If you (or a loved one) ever feels unable to cope because of overwhelming or intense emotions, or if they have any thoughts of harming themselves then ask for help immediately on 000.

Below are some resources available 24/7, 7 days per week:
Lifeline: 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au
Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467 or suicidecallbackservice.org.au
beyondblue: 1300 224 636 or beyondblue.org.au
Additional youth support services

headspace: visit headspace.org.au to find your nearest centre or call Headspace on 1800 650 890
Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 or kidshelpline.com.au
ReachOut: reachout.com.au
SANE Australia: 1800 187 263 or sane.org
https://headspace.org.au/young-people/how-to-cope-with-stress-related-to-covid-19/

Please keep calm, take care and do reach out for support as needed.

 

From January 11th 2020 Debra will be ceasing therapeutic assessment and intervention at:

Springwood Family Medical Practice

1, De Chair Avenue Springwood NSW 2777.

From 18/01/2020 Debra will be available by appointment at a lovely building of Heritage significance: 3/44-46 Lurline Street, Katoomba NSW 2780. It is easily accessible by train and disabled access can be arranged.

Mail can be sent to:
P.O. Box 10, Katoomba NSW 2780

Debra can be contacted by her Australian phone:
P: +61431199045

eFax: (02) 8088 6528

Also via:

 

From May 2nd 2018 Debra will be commencing counselling sessions at:

Life Work Counselling

131-145 Glebe Point Road
​Glebe NSW 2037
​Australia

Life Work Counselling

Appointments can be available every Wednesday from 7.30 a.m. to 7.30 p.m.

Mail can be sent to:
P.O. Box 3259 Marrickville Metro NSW 2204

Debra can be contacted by her Australian phone:
P: +61431199045

Also via:

APS College of Educational & Developmental Psychologists News

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Introducing Cleo Mayr, our very skilful Manager of Therapy Resources who keeps us all organised behind the scenes. Cleo expertly keeps the Therapy rooms stocked with key resources, is a whizz at finding essential equipment, making them easily accessible. Cleo is completely dedicated to the work we do and a vital member of our team.