SHIPS is now providing treatment sessions over the phone and video to people around Australia!
Our highly skilled, inclusive practitioners are continuing to provide treatment for sexual health, intimacy and mental health issues over these platforms. To support our community during this stressful and unprecedented time, we are also providing treatment for:
Job loss
Financial insecurity
Health anxiety
Life adjustment
Loneliness and isolation
COVID-19 specific anxiety or depression
Changes and stressors within relationships
There are many more issues we can support you with during this time. Contact our reception team to find out more.
If you are experiencing financial hardship reduced fees and bulk billing may be available. Check out our rebates and fees and contact our admin team to find out more.
What equipment do I need to access this service?
If you are accessing Telehealth via video you will need a private space, device (smartphone, laptop, iPad, computer) with a camera, microphone and speakers as well as a reliable internet connection.
If you are accessing Telehealth via phone, you will need access to a phone in a private space.
How do video sessions work?
After you make an appointment booking, you will receive a Coviu (our preferred video platform) invitation before your appointment
5 minutes before your appointment, click on the appointment link
Make sure you are in a private space where you will not be disturbed
The practitioner will join you in the virtual ‘Coviu’ room
The practitioner will also be in a private space where you will not be seen or heard
Then proceed with your session, as usual
How do phone sessions work?
When you make an appointment booking, let the SHIPS reception team know the number you would like to be contacted on
At the time of the appointment, make sure you are in a private space where you will not be disturbed
The practitioner will call you and you can answer
The practitioner will also be in a private space where your phone call will not be heard
Then proceed with your session, as usual
Tips on preparing for a Telehealth session:
Maintain privacy - Make sure you have private space where you will not be interrupted or overheard
Minimise distractions - Remove potential distractions from the room eg. switch off mobile phone, turn off music/television, ask others not to interrupt you, ensure children and pets are cared for so you don’t need to attend to them
Access to technology - Make sure you have access to appropriate technology and a reliable internet connection for video sessions or a telephone for a phone session
Good visibility - Position the camera appropriately so the psychologist can see you clearly on the screen. Make sure you are well lit allowing a clear image and good eye contact
Presentation - Think about how you present yourself. It can help to dress as you would for a session, so it puts you in the same headspace
Questions - Think about any questions you might have for the practitioner about Telehealth services
What if I share my home with others and privacy is difficult? What can I do?
Ask those you share a house with to wear headphones while you have your appointment
If possible, ask those you share a house with to leave for the period of the appointment
If possible, you could go for a walk and find a private space outside
If possible, you could sit in your car parked in private space
Will it feel strange to not be in the same room?
It perfectly normal to feel a little anxious about using a different mode of communicating! It is important to talk about this anxiety and any concerns you have with your practitioner at the start of the session. Once the session starts, most people find they feel more comfortable than expected! Some of our clients have even said they feel even more comfortable over the phone or video, because they are in their safe-space during the session.