5 August 2021
Latest Update on Actions - Coronavirus (COVID-19)

The team at Melbourne Psychology & Counselling (MPC) will continue to provide psychological therapy during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021. We adjust the way we work in line with the latest Victorian Government public health requirements. Below are current measures we are taking to comply with current rules:

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1. Continuity of care via telehealth or face-to-face during lockdown periods.
Psychology is a permitted industry for the provision of health care. We are able to offer telehealth sessions during lockdowns unless there is an urgent clinical need to move to in-person sessions. Please consult with your psychologist if you think your situation qualifies for in-person sessions.

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We request that clients that usually see their psychologist face-to-face make use of telehealth sessions to maintain continuity of treatment during lockdown periods rather than cancelling their appointments. The effectiveness of treatments can be impacted by multiple disruptions. MPC strongly recommends treatment continue via telehealth to maintain efficacy. Please contact your psychologist if you are unable to switch to telehealth sessions to discuss alternative arrangements.

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2. Continuing telehealth sessions

Telehealth psychology sessions with a Medicare rebate are available until December 2021. The Federal Health Minister has announced that telehealth will become a permanent part of health provision in Australia. We have not received confirmation at this stage whether this will apply for psychology treatment. Fingers crossed!

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3. Wearing of masks or face coverings during in-person psychology sessions

Clients and psychologists must wear a face mask for in-person psychology sessions. There are exceptions for clients in some circumstances. Please consult with your psychologist to discuss this further.

4. Attendance at the Clinic when unwell

As per our previous guidelines, clients are asked to change to telehealth appointments if they, or anyone in their household, are awaiting a COVID-19 test result, or have any symptoms of illness, including:

• fever/ chills

• cough

• sore throat

• shortness of breath

• runny nose

• loss of smell/taste

• headache

• muscle pain

• stuffy nose

• nausea

• vomiting

• diarhorrea

Finally, our team is working hard to continue to provide psychological care for our clients and community during this time. We understand that frequent changes of the rules and changes can be challenging. Please don't hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns.

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The team at Melbourne Psychology & Counselling (MPC) is committed to continuing to provide psychological treatment to our clients and local community during this very difficult time.

Dr Claire Ahern & Dr Christine Raab
Directors - Melbourne Psychology & Counselling

5 August 2021