Information for new patients

Below is a step-by-step guide outlining what to expect.

A guide to your first psychiatry appointment

Your initial appointment with our psychiatrists is designed to help you gain a clear understanding of your mental health needs and the treatment options available. The process is structured and collaborative, ensuring that both you and your GP receive clear and practical feedback.

Step 1

Obtain a referral from your GP

To see one of our psychiatrists, you will need a referral from your GP.

We kindly ask that the referral letter includes either:

A reference to Medicare item number 291, or
A request for an “opinion and report.”

Your GP can send the referral directly to our clinic via secure messaging or email. Alternatively, you may provide us with a copy yourself.

Once we receive the referral, we will be in touch to arrange your appointment.

Step 2

Schedule your appointment

Once we receive your referral, our team will contact you within one business day to offer the next available appointment.

You will receive a confirmation of your booking, along with details about fees, Medicare rebates, and how to prepare for your assessment.

All appointments are conducted via telehealth unless alternative arrangements have been made.

Step 3

Complete your pre-appointment questionnaires

Before your consultation, you will be asked to complete a series of questionnaires.

These help your psychiatrist gain a clearer understanding of your background, current concerns, and any areas that may need closer attention.

Completing them in advance ensures your appointment can focus on understanding your situation and planning the next steps.

Step 4

Attend your assessment

Your initial assessment will last approximately 45–60 minutes.

During this time, your psychiatrist will explore your symptoms, history, and relevant life circumstances with you.

Together, you will consider possible contributing factors and discuss treatment options or recommendations for further support.

The assessment is thorough yet conversational, and you are encouraged to raise any questions or concerns at any time.

Step 5

Receive your report

Within 7 days of your appointment, your psychiatrist will prepare a comprehensive report summarising the findings and recommendations.

This report will be shared with both you and your GP to support coordinated, ongoing care.

It may include recommendations for medication, therapy, or referrals to other professionals, if needed.

Step 6

Ongoing care

Following your assessment, ongoing care may be arranged if clinically appropriate.

Some patients continue under the psychiatrist’s care for medication management or periodic review, while others return to their GP or psychologist with a clear treatment plan in place.

Our goal is to ensure you receive appropriate, coordinated, and effective support for your ongoing wellbeing.

If you’re considering taking the next step, our team is here to help you explore your options.

We are a specialist psychiatry and clinical psychology practice based in Camberwell, Victoria. We offer in-person and telehealth consultations to patients seeking psychiatry and psychotherapy services.

We work across Wurundjeri Country. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.

(03) 7056 6315

contact@yarraclinic.com.au

HealthLink: yarracpp