Questions
Frequently asked questions
Referrals and Medicare
Do I need a referral?
For bulk-billed therapy, yes: a referral and Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP. The ADHD assessment doesn't need one.
What is a Mental Health Treatment Plan?
A plan your GP writes that gives you Medicare-covered psychology sessions. One GP appointment sets it up; tell them you'd like to see a psychologist.
Who can write the referral?
Your usual GP practice: the one that provides most of your care, or where you're registered with MyMedicare. Psychiatrists and paediatricians can too.
How do I send my referral?
Your GP usually sends it directly. Otherwise, upload it when you book; a clear photo of the letter is fine.
How long does a referral last?
Until its sessions are used. It's written for a course of treatment, not a calendar period.
How many sessions does Medicare cover?
Up to 10 individual sessions each calendar year, usually six and then a review with your GP.
What if I've used my 10 sessions this year?
Sessions reset on 1 January. Until then you can continue privately at $180 a session, or $120 with a student concession.
I have a referral from seeing another psychologist. Can I use it here?
Usually yes, if it has sessions left on it. Send it through and it gets checked before your first appointment.
What does bulk billing mean here?
Ixencion claims the Medicare benefit directly and accepts it as full payment. A referred session costs you nothing. From 1 July 2026, Medicare also asks for a quick electronic consent each time, by secure link to your phone or email.
Telehealth
Is telehealth as effective as in person?
For many people and many concerns, yes; trials of video-delivered therapy back this up. It isn't right for everyone, and the first session checks the fit.
What if my internet is poor?
The session switches to phone. If it can't continue, it's rebooked at no charge.
Is the video call private?
The platform is encrypted and sessions are never recorded.
ADHD assessment
How do I start?
With a free 15-minute consult by phone or video. No charge, no obligation: it covers whether assessment is the right step and any questions about cost and process.
What does the assessment cost?
$360 total. That covers the assessment session(s), measures, feedback, and the written report. It's a private fee; Medicare doesn't cover standalone ADHD assessments.
How long does it take?
A free 15-minute consult, then a single assessment session with questionnaires around it, then a feedback session where the report is handed over. Occasionally a second assessment session where clinically necessary.
Can a psychologist diagnose ADHD?
Yes. Psychologists assess and diagnose ADHD; that's what the assessment is for. Prescribing medication is a separate medical step.
What if it turns out not to be ADHD?
Then the report says so, and says what better explains the difficulties.
Can the assessment lead to medication?
In NSW, psychiatrists prescribe ADHD medication, and specially trained GPs are joining them as the state's reforms roll out. The report is written to be useful to whoever takes that step with you.
What if I can't finish the assessment?
Because it's prepaid, any refund depends on timing. Withdraw more than 24 hours before your session and you're refunded in full; within 24 hours, the $180 deposit is kept and any balance refunded; if you attend the assessment session but stop before feedback, $240 is kept; once the feedback session and report are delivered, the fee is non-refundable. The deposit reflects that most of the work (scoring, review, and the written report) is committed around the session. Full terms are set out at booking.
Can I use the report for work or study adjustments?
Yes. Say so at the first appointment so the report addresses it.
Fees and practical
Is $180 the full price for a session?
Yes. $180 covers one 50-minute private session, or $120 with a student concession. The 50% deposit paid to confirm your booking comes off that amount.
Can I claim psychology on private health insurance?
Some extras policies rebate private-fee sessions; check with your fund. Bulk-billed sessions can't also be claimed on insurance.
What about cancellations?
Reschedule with more than 24 hours notice at no charge. Cancellations within 24 hours are 50% of the session fee; non-attendance is 100%. Arriving more than 15 minutes late counts as non-attendance.
Do you see children?
No. Ixencion works with people aged 16 and over for therapy, and adults for the ADHD assessment.
What areas do you serve?
The Central West first: Orange, Bathurst, Dubbo and surrounds, and all of regional NSW by telehealth.
What if I'm in crisis?
Call 000, or Lifeline on 13 11 14. A telehealth practice can't provide emergency care.
Something unanswered? reception@ixencion.com.au