Referring to John Hunter                 

Any one may request counselling directly by contacting me without a medical referral and pay the appropriate fee. Medicare rebates for up to 10 sessions are available if a doctor refers you under a mental health plan (Item 2710 and such) under Medicare's Better Access initiative. Many common conditions are covered by  Medicare   however you will need to discuss a referral with your doctor. Inform the clinic when you call that you are seeking a mental health plan so a longer appointment (rebatable) is made.

Information for Medical Practitioners                  

General Practitioners and Psychiatrists alike may refer patients directly or call to discuss counselling referrals to John Hunter,  Medicare  Provider of counselling Melbourne CBD (Prov.2623217X) and Burwood East (Prov. 2623213A); and ATAPS provider (Melbourne East General Practitioners Network).

Why refer to me?

• I am an experienced, A.A.S.W. certified and  Medicare  registered Allied Health Professional:

• I am trained to assist patients referred under the Better Access, Better Options & Better Outcomes schemes by delivering focused psychological therapy you specify in your patients' Mental Health Care Plans (Items 2710, 2712 and 302).

• I am experienced in using cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, interpersonal therapy and psycho-education.

• I have extensive counselling experience and education in alcohol and drug dependence and abuse (bingeing), men's issues, relationships, anxiety and depression, grief and loss and sexual abuse.

• I bring social work's bio-psycho-social approach so do not focus solely on the presenting problem or disorder but with incorporate the patient's strengths and the influences of family of origin, partner, home life, workplace, cultural background and system of belief.

• I am a mature-aged counsellor with a wealth of diverse life experience who is able to engage with and relate to people from many differing walks of life and cultural backgrounds.

Quality service

• I notify you in writing when patients commence treatment; confer with you as indicated; and provide a concise written report when treatment concludes.
• I abide by the A.A.S.W. Code of Ethics.
• I undergo continuing professional development (CPD) as a requirement of my accredited member status in the AASW and my registration as an allied health provider with Medicare Australia.
• My membership of the AASW means your patients are covered by public liability insurance.