Introducing Darling St Practice

Our approach

We are a psychology practice providing best practice psychological care with a client centred, diversity affirming and inclusive approach. As a collective we provide tailored psychological therapy, diagnostic assessment, clinical and professional supervision, and more. Let us help you connect with one of our psychologists who best meets your needs.

Meet our team

  • Melissa Johnstone, Clinical Psychologist Practice Director

  • Rhiannon Gaffney Psychologist

  • Liam Higham Psychologist

  • Heather Zell Office Administration

  • Kathy Hall Office Administration

Our services

  • Psychological Treatment


    Our psychologists accept Mental Health Care Plan, DVA, self-managed NDIS, Employee Assistance Program and self-referrals; and are skilled in treating anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, neuro-developmental disorders, substance disorders, and recovery from trauma.

    Treatment options are tailored to each client, with a focus on outcome based care. Key treatment models include Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution Focussed Therapy, Schema Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR).

    Services are not provided under Work Cover and referrals for the purpose court assessment and reporting are not accepted.

  • Assessment

    Our psychologists are trained and capable in assess and diagnose a range of common mental health conditions. Specific diagnostic assessments for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Autism Spectrum Disorder are also conducted through structured clinical interview and psychometric testing. Assessments to investigate various aspects of cognitive and related functioning are available to provide detailed reports that detail an individual’s cognitive and learning capacities.

  • Supervision

    Melissa is an approved supervisor by the Psychology Board of Australia, and is experienced in providing guidance, support and mentorship to psychologists and other professionals working in mental health and welfare sectors. Melissa is pleased to help supervisees develop their clinical skills, navigate ethical dilemmas and maintain their professional wellbeing. Key responsibilities include ensuring ethical and professional standards, developing clinical skills, promoting professional growth, managing caseloads, addressing challenges, facilitating self-awareness and self-care.

Availability

Due to high demand our psychologists are sometimes unable to accept new referrals. Information about availability can be found by calling our friendly reception team on 67622366 or using the Contact Us form.

FAQs

What services aren’t provided?

It’s important to understand that psychologists operate within specific scopes of practice. Please note the psychologists at Darling St do not provide:

  • Assessment and reports for court purposes

  • Couples or family relationship counselling

  • Work Cover

  • Bulk billing

Cancellation policy?

Appointments are confirmed at the time of booking and courtesy text reminders are sent 48 hrs before the scheduled time to help accommodate changes. Where a cancellation is not made within 24 hours of the appointment time the full session fee will apply and is payable to confirm any subsequent appointments.

If you arrive late for an appointment, your session time will end at the appointed time, and you will be charged the full session fee.

Fees?

Fee structure is determined by the type of service provided and details can be provided our friendly reception team. Fees must be paid on the day of your appointment.

Private Health insurers provide varied levels of cover and will need to contact your insurer to find out how much you may get back. HICAPS is available to process your cover at the time of payment.

I have a Mental Health Care Plan or referral from my GP?

Medicare rebates to session fees may apply if your GP recommends focussed psychological treatment as part of your care plan. Full fee is payable on the day of your appointment, with the Medicare rebate processed at the time of appointment. Under these arrangements your psychologist is required to share information about your treatment with the referring GP and by utilising rebated sessions you consent for sharing of information with your GP.

Providing you with a safe space to relax

Our soothing office environment offers a retreat-like experience that reflects the value in which clients are held. Fully private consultation rooms, an abundance of light, and elegant design promote your comfort.

 

Location

Our dedicated psychology practice is conveniently located at 37 Darling St in leafy East Tamworth. Car parking is easy to find and disability access is found the rear entry of the building. Telehealth appointment options are also available.

Title: Healing Journeys
Artist: Hailah Peters Limerick
Used with permission

Darling St Practice recognises the Kamilaroi Gomeroi people as the traditional custodians of the lands on which we work and live, and pay respect to elders, past, present and emerging.