Confidential counseling with a psychologist
Introduction
Gambling problems are often hidden behind feelings of shame and fear of judgment. Confidential work with a specialist helps to quickly get out of the "vicious circle" of dependent thoughts and behavior. Below is a clear algorithm for finding, recording and effectively undergoing psychological therapy in Australia.
1. Choosing a consultation format
Face-to-face meeting
Usually 50-60 minutes long, held in a private office or government center Gambler's Help.
Telemedicine (video/audio)
Convenient for remote regions or with limited time; sessions on secure platforms (Coviu, HealthDirect).
Online chat
Brief anonymous consultations through Gambling Help Online; suitable for emergency support.
2. How to get a Medicare subsidy
1. GP (family doctor) appointment
Description of symptoms: obsessive thoughts about the game, difficulties with control, emotional discomfort.
2. Mental Health Care Plan
GP writes out referrals for up to 10 Better Access sessions.
3. Medicare-rebeyt
Each session is covered by a subsidy of 88.15 AUD, the difference is paid by the patient.
3. Specialist search and selection
Australian Psychological Society (APS)
Psychology website. org. au: search by "gambling disorder" specialization.
Gambler's Help Portals States
Lists of certified psychologists and social workers.
Recommendations from the hotline
After contacting the 1800 858 858, the consultant will give contacts of suitable specialists.
4. Preparation for the first session
1. Short dependency map
Dates and duration of game sessions, amounts of losses, attempts to stop.
2. Goals of therapy
For example: "Learn to cope with cravings," "Develop a daily routine without playing."
3. Questions for a psychologist
Expected course duration, methods of work (CBT, mindfulnes), homework.
5. Methods and expected results
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
Disassemble automatic thoughts, replace them with adaptive strategies.
Self-regulation techniques
Breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, brief meditations.
Relapse Prevention Plan
Identification of triggers, development of alternative actions, maintaining a "control diary."
Assessment of progress
At each session, analysis of changes: reduced frequency of desires to play, stabilization of mood.
6. Cost and alternatives
Gambler's Help (full-time services)
Free for residents, includes both psychologists and social workers.
Private practices
150-250 AUD per session, with a Medicare rebet, the price can go down to 60-80 AUD.
Online platforms
BetterHelp, Talkspace: From 50 AUD/week, working with Australian specialists.
Conclusion
Confidential consultations with a psychologist are a key element of recovery from problems with excitement. Follow the steps clearly: GP → Mental Health Care Plan → format selection → preparation for the session → active participation in CBT and mindfulnes methods. This systematic approach guarantees not only a decrease in craving for games, but also sustainable psychological well-being.
Gambling problems are often hidden behind feelings of shame and fear of judgment. Confidential work with a specialist helps to quickly get out of the "vicious circle" of dependent thoughts and behavior. Below is a clear algorithm for finding, recording and effectively undergoing psychological therapy in Australia.
1. Choosing a consultation format
Face-to-face meeting
Usually 50-60 minutes long, held in a private office or government center Gambler's Help.
Telemedicine (video/audio)
Convenient for remote regions or with limited time; sessions on secure platforms (Coviu, HealthDirect).
Online chat
Brief anonymous consultations through Gambling Help Online; suitable for emergency support.
2. How to get a Medicare subsidy
1. GP (family doctor) appointment
Description of symptoms: obsessive thoughts about the game, difficulties with control, emotional discomfort.
2. Mental Health Care Plan
GP writes out referrals for up to 10 Better Access sessions.
3. Medicare-rebeyt
Each session is covered by a subsidy of 88.15 AUD, the difference is paid by the patient.
3. Specialist search and selection
Australian Psychological Society (APS)
Psychology website. org. au: search by "gambling disorder" specialization.
Gambler's Help Portals States
Lists of certified psychologists and social workers.
Recommendations from the hotline
After contacting the 1800 858 858, the consultant will give contacts of suitable specialists.
4. Preparation for the first session
1. Short dependency map
Dates and duration of game sessions, amounts of losses, attempts to stop.
2. Goals of therapy
For example: "Learn to cope with cravings," "Develop a daily routine without playing."
3. Questions for a psychologist
Expected course duration, methods of work (CBT, mindfulnes), homework.
5. Methods and expected results
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
Disassemble automatic thoughts, replace them with adaptive strategies.
Self-regulation techniques
Breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, brief meditations.
Relapse Prevention Plan
Identification of triggers, development of alternative actions, maintaining a "control diary."
Assessment of progress
At each session, analysis of changes: reduced frequency of desires to play, stabilization of mood.
6. Cost and alternatives
Gambler's Help (full-time services)
Free for residents, includes both psychologists and social workers.
Private practices
150-250 AUD per session, with a Medicare rebet, the price can go down to 60-80 AUD.
Online platforms
BetterHelp, Talkspace: From 50 AUD/week, working with Australian specialists.
Conclusion
Confidential consultations with a psychologist are a key element of recovery from problems with excitement. Follow the steps clearly: GP → Mental Health Care Plan → format selection → preparation for the session → active participation in CBT and mindfulnes methods. This systematic approach guarantees not only a decrease in craving for games, but also sustainable psychological well-being.
