Michelle Hanratty – Registered Psychologist

Michelle’s special interests are pregnancy and fertility issues, anxiety, depression, relationships, adjustment to illness and grief and loss. Michelle is committed to her patients and to ensure they receive the best quality of service with empathy and understanding. She works collaboratively with patients and allied Treating Practitioners, to reach the desired outcome of positive wellbeing.

What is a psychologist?

Psychologists study the way people feel, think, act and interact. Through a range of strategies and therapies they aim to reduce distress and to enhance and promote emotional wellbeing. Psychologists are experts in human behaviour, and have studied the brain, memory, learning and human development. Psychologists can assist people who are having difficulty controlling their emotions, thinking and behaviour, including those with mental health problems such as anxiety and depression, serious and enduring mental illness, addictive behaviours and childhood behaviour disorders.

What is a registered psychologist?

All psychologists are legally required to register with the Psychologist Registration Board in their State or Territory, in the same way medical practitioners must be registered. This means that they must be competent and follow a strict Code of Conduct. Not all counsellors or therapists are registered psychologists. Seeing someone who is registered ensures you receive high quality ethical treatment.

Can I access psychological treatment through Medicare?

Yes you can, but you must be referred by your GP, your psychiatrist or paediatrician. Your GP will need to complete a detailed mental health assessment and prepare a Mental Health Care Plan before referring you to a psychologist. You should book a longer session with your GP to enable time for this. Generally, depending on your circumstance there is a small Gap Payment required for Psychological services. This will be explained further by your psychologist upon commencement of treatment.