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Psychology that moves with you
1. Book your session
Choose an available appointment and book securely online. You do not need a referral to book. However, eligible clients will need a valid referral and Mental Health Treatment Plan to claim a Medicare rebate.
2. Prepare for your walk
Choose a safe and familiar route where you will feel comfortable talking. Wear comfortable shoes, check the weather and bring your headphones and some water. Make sure your phone is charged and has reliable reception.
3. Answer the call
At your appointment time, your psychologist will call you on your nominated number. Answer the call, begin your walk and take the next 50 minutes for yourself.
What to expect during your Walking Session
A Walking Session is a professional psychology session delivered primarily by phone, with the freedom to walk somewhere familiar to you.
Your first session
Your psychologist will take time to understand what has brought you to therapy, what you are currently experiencing and what you would like support with. You will also discuss confidentiality, safety and whether phone-based walking sessions are appropriate for your needs.
Your ongoing sessions
Your psychologist will work collaboratively with you to explore the thoughts, feelings and patterns affecting your wellbeing. Depending on your needs, sessions may include reflection, practical strategies and evidence-based psychological approaches.
Your walk, at your pace
You choose where to walk and how quickly you move. There is no distance to complete and no expectation to exercise intensely. You can slow down, pause or stop walking whenever you need to.
Walking Session is primarily a phone-based service. Video sessions may also be available by request when clinically appropriate.
Before you step outside
A little preparation can help you feel comfortable, focused and ready for your Walking Session.
Choose your route
Select a safe and familiar place with reliable phone reception. A quieter route with fewer road crossings and distractions can make it easier to focus on your conversation.
Prepare your phone
Charge your phone, connect your headphones and make sure you can receive calls from your psychologist. Please do not participate in your session while driving.
Dress for the day
Wear comfortable clothing and suitable walking shoes. Check the weather beforehand and bring anything you may need, such as water, sunscreen, a hat or a light jacket.
Consider your privacy
Choose a place where you will feel comfortable speaking openly. Using headphones can help protect your privacy while allowing you to move naturally during your session.
Referrals and Medicare
You do not need a referral to book a Walking Session. However, a valid referral is required if you would like to claim a Medicare rebate.
Booking without a referral
You can book and pay for your sessions without seeing a GP first. Medicare rebates will not apply to sessions provided without an eligible referral.
Accessing Medicare rebates
If you are eligible, your GP or another eligible medical practitioner can prepare a Mental Health Treatment Plan and refer you for psychological treatment. Medicare rebates may be available for up to 10 individual mental health treatment sessions per calendar year.
Your initial referral can cover a maximum of six sessions. Your referring practitioner may review your progress and provide a further referral if additional sessions are appropriate and you remain eligible.
Sending your referral
Please ask your medical practice to send your referral to Walking Session before your first appointment. Our team can check that the required referral information has been received, but your eligibility and available Medicare sessions are determined by Medicare.
Understanding your costs
Medicare rebates do not cover the full session fee, so an out-of-pocket cost will apply. Please visit our Fees and Medicare page for current session fees, rebate information and estimated out-of-pocket costs.
Safety, privacy and confidentiality
Walking Sessions are designed to give you freedom of movement while maintaining the professional standards of a psychology session.
Choosing a safe environment
You are responsible for selecting a safe and familiar walking route. Avoid busy roads, isolated areas, difficult terrain and any environment that requires your full attention. Walking Sessions must not be taken while driving, cycling or operating machinery.
Protecting your privacy
Your psychologist will conduct the session from a private setting and manage your information in accordance with professional and legal obligations. We recommend wearing headphones and choosing a location where you feel comfortable speaking without being overheard.
Location and emergency details
Before your session, we will ask you to provide your contact details and an emergency contact. Your psychologist may also confirm your location at the beginning of the appointment so they can respond appropriately if an unexpected safety concern arises.
If circumstances change
You can slow down, pause or stop walking at any time. If the weather, your surroundings or your wellbeing make it difficult to continue safely, let your psychologist know and move to a secure, private location.
Confidentiality
What you discuss with your psychologist is confidential, subject to the professional and legal limits of confidentiality. These limits will be explained during your first appointment, and you are welcome to ask questions at any time.
