Frequently asked questions
We’re based in Cooks Hill, in Newcastle/Awabakal, NSW, and also provide telehealth options to increase accessibility.
We will be officially opening our doors on Tuesday May 13, initially offering appointments on:
Tuesdays 9am-4:30pm
Wednesdays 9am-4:30pm
Fridays 8am-1pm.
By August 2025, we will be open Monday to Friday, 8am-4:30pm.
Yes – we work with children (and their families), young people/adolescents, and adults of all ages.
At Compass, we have a cancellation policy requiring at least 48 business hours’ notice for any changes to your appointment. If you cancel or reschedule within 48 business hours of your scheduled time (2 business days), an out-of-pocket cancellation fee equal to 50% of the session cost will apply. Please note that this fee is not eligible for a Medicare rebate. For appointments scheduled on the day after a weekend or public holiday, the policy requires notification of your inability to attend by the last business day before your appointment. The cancellation fee must be settled before your next session can take place.
For immediate assistance, contact emergency services at 000 or present to your nearest Emergency Department. Otherwise, please make contact with a crisis support service, such as those listed here on our resources page.
For information about the types of therapy we offer please visit our therapy page.
Queer-affirming therapy recognises that identity is a key component of mental health and well-being. Therapists working from a queer-affirmative perspective prioritise exploring clients’ identities, experiences, and goals related to their gender and sexual orientation.
Yes! A diagnosis can be helpful as it provides clarity and understanding about the challenges a young person or adult is facing. It serves as a foundation for developing a tailored treatment plan, guiding evidence-based interventions that address specific needs. Additionally, a diagnosis can foster self-awareness, reduce feelings of confusion, and empower individuals to seek appropriate support and resources. For many, it can also validate their experiences, offering reassurance that they are not alone and that effective help is available. Find out more about our psychological assessments here.
While Psychologists and Clinical Psychologists are registered with the Psychology Board of Australia, Clinical Psychologists hold additional postgraduate qualifications and have undergone further training. Clinical Psychologists focus on understanding and improving mental health through therapy and assessments. They use evidence-based approaches, like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), to address a range of emotional and psychological challenges.
Psychiatrists, on the other hand, are medical doctors who specialise in mental health after completing medical training. They can prescribe medications, making them well-suited for addressing more severe or complex mental health conditions, and often combine medical treatment with therapeutic approaches.
Psychologists, Clinical Psychologists and Psychiatrists all aim to improve mental well-being but bring unique expertise – psychologists emphasise psychological therapy, while psychiatrists focus on the biological and medical aspects of mental health.
No referral is required, but a referral from your GP is needed to access Medicare rebates through the Better Access Initiative.
The therapeutic relationship is vital for success. If you feel your clinician isn’t the right fit, it’s okay to explore other options! You can discuss this with your clinician, our staff, or your GP, and we’ll support you through the process.
Psychological treatment is highly effective for many mental health concerns. All psychologists are trained in evidence-based approaches, and research highlights that a strong therapeutic relationship plays a key role in achieving positive outcomes.
Your first session is an opportunity for your psychologist to understand your background and the challenges that brought you to Compass. They may ask questions about your history, goals, and experiences. It’s also a chance to ask questions about treatment approaches, confidentiality, or anything else you’re curious about.
Before your session, you will need to complete an intake and consent forms which we will send to you. Take a moment to reflect on your goals or questions you’d like to address during the session.
Therapy varies for everyone. Some benefit from short-term support, while others engage in longer-term work to explore deeper patterns or seek ongoing support. In your first session, you’ll discuss the expected number and frequency of sessions based on your goals, treatment approach, and any time or financial considerations.
Compass Clinical Psychology acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land where we work and live, Awabakal Country. We pay respects to Elders past, present and emerging. We celebrate the stories, culture and traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders of all communities, and thank them for allowing us to support the community on their traditional land.
Compass Clinical Psychology is committed to diversity, fairness, overcoming injustice and social inclusion: this includes Indigenous Australians, people who identify as LGBTQIA+, people of all ages, people with a disability and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.