The Emotional Health Clinic (EHC) is a specialist clinical research clinic aimed at furthering our understanding of child & adult emotional disorders and improving our methods of treatment. The Clinic is part of the Centre for Emotional Health, and offers state of the art assessment and treatment of child, adolescent, and adult anxiety and related disorders based on internationally recognised research that has been conducted by our Centre and other research groups. We are also involved in the continuing development of innovative methods of treatment delivery for those who do not have direct access to the Clinic, as well as school-based programs for child and adolescent anxiety and depression.
In addition to its research, treatment and assessment functions, the EHC is a teaching clinic that provides specialist training for clinical psychologists, doctoral students and other related professionals. We are also committed to increasing community awareness of child, adolescent and adult emotional disorders. Our team of clinicians and researchers work together with the goal of better understanding these disorders so that we can minimise the negative impact they have on the lives of so many children and adults.
The Emotional Health Clinic began its life as the Macquarie University Anxiety Research Unit (MUARU), which was started in 1993 by Prof Ron Rapee as a focus for his own research and to provide a clinical service to the community. The clinic began with a specialized focus on child anxiety and quickly developed a strong reputation across Sydney and throughout Australia in this specialized niche. The clinic grew dramatically over the years and soon introduced programs for the management of adult anxiety disorders as well as adolescent anxiety and depression
Treatment Programs
The Centre for Emotional Health provides a range of programs designed to help people of all ages to normalise and reduce their anxiety, creating confidence and future resilience. Accessibly priced, some programs are further subsidised through Medicare or research grants. Treatment is based on the latest knowledge of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and is structured to apply easily to individual needs. These programs can literally be life changing for sufferers.
How much does treatment cost?
The price of treatment at the Clinic depends on a number of factors. These factors include:
- What program you do
- Whether treatment is delivered in a group or by individual therapy
- The qualification level of the treating clinician. Our clinicians fall into two categories:
- Provisional psychologists. These clinicians have completed their undergraduate degree in psychology, and are in the process of completing their post graduate qualifications (Masters or Doctorate in Clinical Psychology). These clinicians have all their work supervised by a senior clinical psychologist but, because they have not yet completed their postgraduate degree, offer services at a reduced rate.
- Fully qualified psychologists. These clinicians have completed their postgraduate qualifications, and have considerable experience in the treatment of anxiety and other emotional problems. The rate they charge is higher than that of a provisional psychologist.
The Centre for Emotional Health also conducts research designed at improving treatments. Programs that are being currently researched are often subsidised by research grants, and can be a great way of accessing cutting edge treatment at a greatly reduced fee.
For non-research treatments, you may be eligible for a Mental Health Care Plan, which will entitle you to claim a significant proportion of treatment fees back from Medicare. If claiming from Medicare, a referral letter from your GP or psychiatrist outlining a mental health plan will need to be brought to your initial consultation. Please click here for more information.
Group v Individual (one-to-one) treatment – which one is right for me?
Some of our programs are offered in either group or individual format. There are advantages to both, which are outlined below:
Group Therapy:
- Meet people with similar concerns, and realize you are not alone
- Get support and ideas from the whole group
- May be more cost-effective
Individual Therapy:
- Have the program tailored to your specific needs
- Length of sessions is shorter, as only your concerns are discussed
- May be more flexible regarding the day and time of sessions
The choice between group and individual treatment really depends on your own personal circumstances and goals. To discuss the options further, please don’t hesitate to give us a call.
Where to from here?
If you are interested in completing one of our programs, simply call us on (02) 9850 8711. Our staff are on hand to answer your questions and help you get started.
Child and Teenager Anxiety Treatment Programs
Programs for Adults 18+