Finding a psychologist
As of Monday September 14th the Victorian State Government has opened several new mental health clinics to assist in meeting the demand for psychological services during the COVID-19 pandemic called Head To Help. The service is run through one localised phone contact - 1800 595 212. Further information can be found via their website here.
There are several ways you can find a psychologist in your area. Listed below are some ways, however please be aware that there is currently a large demand on the mental health sector and regrettably wait lists are common.
Speak to your GP/Psychiatrist
Your referrer (GP or Psychiatrist) may know several different practitioners in the area they can recommend to you. They may also know who has more capacity at the moment to take on new clients. If you are unable to secure an appointment with your preferred or referred practitioner please speak to your referrer about alternate options.
Online Search
An online search for practitioners in your area will give you some options who you can contact directly and enquire whether they are taking on new clients and/or whether there are any waiting periods.
Australian Psychological Society Search
The Australian Psychological Society website has an online database of it's members. You can search by area or issue and be provided with a list of practitioners who you can contact. The link for the website is here.
Australian Association of Psychologists Inc. Search
The Australian Association of Psychologists also has an online directory of their members which you can search by location, issue and Telehealth availability. The link for their website is here.
Online Health Databases
There are several online databases of health practitioners and these also frequently list psychologists. These include search engines such as:
Resources
Talking to children about COVID-19
Child Mind Institute - Article here
National Association of School Psychologists & National Association of School Nurses - Handout here
Managing Anxiety
Australian Psychological Society Handout - here
Managing Mental Health during Isolation
Australian Psychological Society Handout - here
Coronavirus Anxiety and Older Adults
Australian Psychological Society Handout - here
*In an emergency, please contact 000 and request Police or Ambulance assistance*
Support Services
Telephone and Online Counselling
Beyond Blue
Lifeline
MensLine
Suicide Line Victoria
https://www.suicideline.org.au
Family Violence Support
Domestic Violence Resource Centre Victoria
Safe Steps
1800Respect
https://www.1800respect.org.au
