Referral Partners

To make an appointment please follow the Book Appointment link on this website or contact Brydan via email (contact@brydanxavier.com.au).

Short answer - no. But you do if you want to be able to claim a Medicare rebate, to reduce the cost of your therapy. If you have funding from another source (like victims of crime, TAC, or private health insurance) or don't wish to claim a rebate from Medicare, you can schedule an appointment with Brydan without a GP or psychiatrist referral. A GP referral and Mental Healthcare Plan (MHCP) will entitle you to Medicare rebates for up to 10 sessions per calendar year within Australia. Any GP can complete a MHCP for you and refer you directly to Brydan. It's important to get a MHCP prior to sessions you want to claim a Medicare rebate for.

Brydan operates out of Being Well 386 Malvern Road, Prahran, VIC, 3181. The location is a short walk from Chapel Street and a 7 minute walk from Hawksburn train station. The number 6 tram runs along Malvern Road, with the nearest stop being Stop 33.

Unfortunately, there isn't onsite parking, however, street parking is readily available. 1 Hour parking is available on Malvern Road, while there is a range of 2 hour parking available on side streets off Malvern Road. Please consider the length of parking and inform Brydan if you have parking time restrictions. Both trams and trains are only a short walk away.

It’s natural to feel nervous if you’ve never attended a counselling session before, and also if you're meeting a new therapist for the first time. However, it’s important to understand that it more or less is a session done through conversation. The first 1-2 sessions are generally focused on developing the therapeutic relationship, Brydan developing an understanding of your situation, and how he might be able to help you. This may include the completion of questionnaires and asking questions about areas of your life that may have led you to seeking counselling. Brydan is dedicated to best practice in psychology and therapy. As such, your first session or two will consist of a comprehensive assessment. Brydan will explore with you the difficulties and issues that have led you to seek support, as well as ask questions about mental health history, family and psychosocial background, and help you to establish clear goals for your work together. If you or your GP haven't yet provided a referral / Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) and you wish to claim a Medicare rebate, please bring this with you. Please watch the videos on the 'What is Therapy?' page for more information about what to generally expect to happen in the first couple of sessions.

The frequency of sessions requires a discussion. To build momentum towards therapeutic goals, research indicates weekly or fortnightly sessions are best at the beginning. These can be spaced out as you feel more comfortable and capable working on your therapeutic goals outside of sessions. For some clients seeking individual support during participation in group therapy programs, the frequency of sessions and the length of treatment may be guided by the length of such programs and waiting times to begin these.

Everyone is inherently different, and as such we all have our own ways of coping with issues. This means people who seek counselling don’t get the same treatment. Sometimes, people resolve their issues with a small numbers of sessions, while others may prefer to work on their long-term emotional development and as such schedule sessions regularly. While it is unusual for Brydan to work with clients for less than 10 sessions, Medicare rebates are only available for 10 sessions per calendar year. Therefore, please consider your finances when reaching out to Brydan. Some people may have access to a greater number of Medicare rebated sessions (for example, First Nations people and people with disordered eating). ​ The best outcomes in therapy come from regular sessions which reinforce behaviour change. Just like going to the gym, regular and consistent work – without long breaks - will increase your chances of success. For initial treatment Brydan generally recommends up to 4 - 6 sessions either weekly or fortnightly sessions. Longer intervals reduce the effectiveness of counselling and also waste valuable time in the session on recapping the intervening weeks’ events. Where clients have significant and more acute difficulties, more regular treatment may be required initially (for example, weekly or fortnightly) before stretching out the time between sessions as clients feel more equiped to navigate their difficulties (e.g. monthly). Once the initial behaviour changes are in place, on-going maintenance can be done at monthly intervals. ​ Financial resources, availability, work and family commitments, and other factors need to be taken into account. Some clients have access to a greater number of Medicare rebated sessions and this can also influence the number of treatment sessions attended (for example, First Nations people, and those with diagnosed eating disorders).

Yes. Brydan works with victims / survivors of crime for brief intervention for trauma following a crime, as well as longer-term treatment. Brydan is also able to complete psychological assessments and treatment planning recommendations for people seeking financial support for longer treatment funding/reimbursement. Please refer to the Victims of Crime authority in the state or territory where the crime occurred for details of financial assistance, etc. Where approval for financial assistance has not yet been obtained from the relevant authority, payment for counselling/assessment and report writing will be required directly from the client, who can then seek to have these reimbursed from the relevant authority. If approval for funding has been received and can be confirmed with the authority (you may need to provide these and provide consent for Brydan to speak with the relevant authority), then he may be able to invoice the third-party funder directly without the client needing to pay for treatment / assessment at the time of services being provided. Where there is a cap to the amount of funding provided for treatment, assessment and report writing, and this does not fully cover the cost of Brydan's fees, clients may be required to self-fund the cost of the gap. Please keep in mind, that victims of crime agencies generally only pay for out-of-pocket expenses. If clients are eligible for Mental Health Care Plans, they are encouraged to obtain these, as Medicare Rebates may reduce the overall cost to the client and enable out of pocket expenses to be fully covered by victims of crime financial assistance.

Appointments are either through telehealth or face to face (in Prahran) on weekdays. Some clients choose to do a mixture of telehealth and face to face depending on your preference and availability. There is some but limited availability on Saturdays. Please contact Brydan to discuss preferences and availability.

Brydan can administer a variety of psychological tests for various purposes, and can prepare appropriate reports. While some forms of testing need to be administered in-person, there are many that can be completed online with brydan or in your own time, which can reduce testing costs and improve accessibility to people with busy lives, or living in regional and remote areas. ​ Brydan works with clients in-person and online via telehealth, across Australia and internationally. There are nine broad types of psychological tests: ​ Intelligence tests. Personality tests. Attitude tests. Achievement tests. Aptitude tests. Neuropsychological tests. Vocational tests. Direct observation tests. ​ There are too many types of testing across these groups to list here. Please contact Brydan to discuss your testing needs, appropriate psychological tests, required time, fees (including report writing fees) and availability, and whether he has experience in and is able to administer tests unique to your situation.

Yes. Brydan works with people from all backgrounds, genders and sexualities experiencing a wide-range of mental health problems. However, he generally works with adults and does have a particular interest working with clients that have unqiue needs and greater barriers to seeking mental health support. Some client groups with unique needs and greater barriers seeking and accessing mental health support include: Men LGBTIQAPSB+ Community First Nations People Criminal Justice System (victims, offenders and staff) Brydan adopts an intersectional approach to working with clients, and particularly has an interest working with clients who may identify with more than one of these groups. Men Brydan is dedicated to helping men from all walks of life improve their mental health and overcome problematic behaviors. With a pragmatic and practical approach, he provides the tools and support necessary for men to live their values and achieve their goals. LGBTIQAPSB+ Community Brydan is a passionate advocate for the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and gender diverse, Intersex, Queer, Asexual, Pansexual, Sistergirl, and Brotherboy (LGBTIQASB+) community he is a part of. He is committed to creating a safe space, free from the stigma, discrimination and judgment that LGBTIQAPSB+ people often face, both from within and outside the community. ​ Brydan is particularly interested in exploring issues related to gender, sexual orientation, attraction, and intersectionality, and is a proponent of sex positivity. First Nations People Brydan is committed to supporting First Nations people when they experience mental health issues. He seeks to implement the Gayaa Dhuwi (Proud Spirit) Declaration and principles of social and emotional well-being within his practice working with first nations people. ​ Brydan is particularly interested in working with First Nations people who also identify with minority identities such as LGBTIQASB+ and those with lived experience of incarceration. People with involvement in the Criminal Justice System As a psychologist and criminologist, Brydan has an interest working with those who are impacted by the criminal justice system - victims / survivors, offenders and employees (courts, prisons, police, and other law enforcement and regulatory agencies). ​ Clients with employee assistance, victims of crime assistance and other forms of third-party funding are welcome.

Brydan does not provide a emergency or crisis services. ​ Emergencies If your safety or the safety of others is at risk, contact emergency services on 000 (24 hours) or attend a local hospital Emergency Department (ED). ​ Crisis or support while on the waitlist If you're waiting to work with Brydan and need to speak with someone because you're experience a mental health crisis, but it is not an emergency, please try the following: ​ Safety Plan: utilise your Safety Plan if you have one, or create one via Beyond Now. ​​ Contact a crisis hotline: Lifeline 13 11 14 Men's Line 1300 78 99 78 QLife (LGBTIQAPSB+) 1800 184 527 Further helplines information: HealthDirect.gov.au ​ Contact a local CAT Team: contact psychiatric triage in your local area to speak with a Crisis Assessment and Triage Team (CATT) (note: it is common to wait a few hours before receiving a call-back after leaving a voice message).

Some group treatment programs require participants to be supported through their own psychologist for individual treatment, such as Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT). ​ Group treatment is a cost-effective way to engage in various forms of treatment and skill development, and being part of the group can also be part of the treatment approach. Examples of group treatment programs include: ​ Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) skills training Emotion management, trauma & PTSD Behavioural change programs Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) programs Eating disorder out-patient programs Brydan has experience delivering group therapies and understands the value that one-on-one counselling can have to support clients as they complete group therapies. Brydan works with clients who are engaged in group therapy / treatment programs to support them on an individual basis as they navigate these. ​​ Individual support for group therapy programs can include support while waiting for programs to commence, between session coaching, case conferences with your support team (e.g. GP, peer support, family, carers and other supports), processing issues that come up for you during treatment, and reinforcement of group therapy content learnings, etc. ​ Please contact Brydan directly by email if you have questions about 1-on-1 group therapy support.

Unfortunately, I am unable to ethically provide reviews or recommend a 'good' psychiatrist. There can be a significant wait to see a psychiatrist for assessments and medication reviews, or to find a psychiatrist as a new on-going client. This can have significant implications for people's mental health if they don't receive timely access to the right treatment and medications. If you are having difficulty finding a psychiatrist, please consider seeking an online psychiatrist who may have shorter wait times.

Counselling is in itself a professional and confidential service offered by psychologists to assist a person in becoming more emotionally healthy and self-aware. Individuals, couples, and families can seek counselling to help address various issues in their lives, however Brydan generally only works with individuals. From time to time, clients may ask for their partner, carer or another important person to attend, however this is rare and the focus is on supporting the client. Please check out the 'What is Therapy?' page for some helpful videos by Movember.

A psychologist is a trained professional who studies human behavior and mental processes. They apply their knowledge of psychology to help individuals understand and overcome challenges in their lives, improve their mental well-being, and achieve their goals. Psychologists use various techniques such as assessments, therapy, counseling, and research to explore and address issues related to emotions, thoughts, behaviors, relationships, and overall mental health. They work in diverse settings including clinical practice, community health centres, schools, hospitals, research institutions, prisons, and corporate organisations to support individuals of all ages and backgrounds in managing and enhancing their psychological health and functioning. The title 'psychologist' is a protected title in Australia, meaning that someone can only use it if they are qualified and registered as a psychologist. Psychologists register with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Authority (AHPRA). Brydan is a registered psychologist with AHPRA. There is some cross-over in some of the work that psychologists do with other professions, such as general practitioners, psychiatrists, social workers, occupational therapists and psychotherapists. Key differences include that psychologists provide counselling, are allowed to administer and interpret psychological tests, and may diagnose clients with mental health disorders. Unlike doctors and psychiatrists, psychologists are not able to prescribe medications.

Different types of Medicare Rebates exist, including: ​ Better Access - Mental Health Care Plans (MHCP) Eating Disorders Plans (EDP) Chronic Disease Management Initiative - CDM Plans Allied Health Services for Aboriginal and Tirres Strait Islanders Mental Health Case Conferences ​ In order to receive a Medicare rebate, patients must obtain the appropriate plan from a general practitioner or referral letter from a psychiatrist. ​ Better Access - Mental Health Care Plans Under the Better Access to Mental Health initiative, a GP can provide clients with a Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP). Eligible patients receive up to 10 psychological consultations per calendar year. ​ Medicare rebates $93.35 of Brydan's $220.00 consultation fee, leaving an out of pocket expense of $106.65 per session. ​ Medicare does not provide rebates for Testing and Assessments.

Cancellations are sometimes necessary, but Brydan does required at least 24 hours notice (1 business day). Unfortunately, late cancellations and no-shows impact three parties: You (since your treatment is delayed), your therapist (who has set time aside for you and prepared for the session) and those on the waiting list seeking treatment. To ensure all clients, and the community have maximum opportunities for treatment, a Cancellation Policy applies. Your support in providing adequate notice for cancellations is greatly appreciated in order to offer timely treatment to those awaiting care. ​ Contact a minimum of 1 business day (24 hours) prior to your scheduled appointment is required to avoid a cancellation fee. This allows someone on Brydan's waiting list to fill your appointment. ​ Cancellations of psychological testing will be charged a 10% administration fee. This is due to the preparation that is involved. ​ A strict cancellation/no-show fee of 50% applies to appointments cancelled within 24-hours of the appointment time, or where a client simply does not attend. ​ Cancellation / No Show Fees: attract 10% GST (as they're not a health service) Medicare rebates can not be claimed (no service was provided) must be paid prior to attending a subsequent appointment ​ Emergency or Illness There may be a time you are unable to make an appointment due to an emergency or illness and need to cancel with less than 24 hours’ notice. If this is the case, please provide appropriate documentation within 2 days of your appointment in order for your situation to be assessed. The current Australian Psychological Society (APS) recommended cancellation fees for psychologists are: 0-24 hours’ notice: Full fee 24-48 hours’ notice: 50% of fee 48 hours - 7 days’ notice: 25% of fee

Counselling is confidential and private. The information you share during these sessions will only be used for assessing, diagnosing, and treating your situation. ​ However, confidentiality is not absolute, and there are limitations to confidentiality. In some situations, psychologists have a legal responsibility to breach confidentiality to keep people safe. For instance, if there’s an immediate risk to you or people you know, or if your file has been subpoenaed by the court. This and any questions you have about confidentiality will be discussed with you at the start of treatment and where necessary during treatment. ​ If you have any past or current legal matters, or are subject to any court, corrections or intervention orders, please let Brydan know so he can discuss these with you if and how any of these may have implications for you. ​ Data Privacy & Security ​ Brydan takes the privacy and security of his clients' information seriously. He abides by the Australian Psychological Society's (APS) Ethical Guidelines relating to the management of clients' information. ​ Brydan uses the Halaxy practice management software. Halaxy is a healthcare industry leader in data and privacy protection and transparency. It utilises bank-grade security and encryption in Australia. You can find out more information here.

Unfortunately, bulk billing is not available. If you are experiencing financial difficulties, please speak with Brydan. Online payment options include payment over four weeks. ​ If you are searching for bulk-billing or free counselling, please search for these online. Beyond Blue also offers self-guided mental health courses and free brief-intervention options.

Speak with your regular GP or psychiatrist. If you don't have a regular GP or psychiatrist, or you're finding it difficult to get an appointment, you may want to try a GP online, such as someone.health.

Brydan provides therapy in a trauma-informed manner. Most Australian jurisdictions have financial assistance and compensation for victims of crime. Brydan can invoice third-party victims of crime funding bodies directly to pay for clients' therapy, where funding has been provided. He may also be able to provide psychological assessment and treatment plan recommendation reports for people seeking to apply for victims of crime financial assistance. State and Territory Victim Support Below is a list of the victims of crime agencies in Australia. Please refer to these for further information about seeking victims of crime, if you believe you may be eligible. ​ Australian Capital Territory - ACT Victim Support New South Wales - NSW Victim Support Scheme Northern Territory - Victims of Crime NT Queensland - QLD Victim Assist South Australia - Victims of Crime SA Tasmania - TAS Victims Assistance Unit Victoria - Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (VOCAT) Western Australia - WA Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme Do Victims of Crime agencies provide counselling? Some victims of crime schemes provide free counselling, however these are often what is called 'brief intervention', lasting a short number of sessions, provided by employees and contractors of the scheme. Other possible scenarios is where you find a therapist and seek for some or all of your therapy fees to be reimbursed for you, however there may be a cap to the amount of reimbursement for each session and to the number of sessions. For example, in Victoria, it may be possible to be reimbursed for up to five sessions without prior approval. However, funding for longer-term therapy generally requires an application to be submitted and approved before funding can be granted. Payment for Treatment Do victims of crime schemes pay for my therapy directly, or do I need to pay and get reimbursed from the victims of crime scheme? ​ Both situations are possible. If you are yet to receive formal approval from a third-party funder for counselling, you will be responsible for making payment for your therapy. If you have a Mental Health Treatment Plan, you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate and seek reimbursement for the difference paid. ​ If you have been awarded funding for counselling, you can ask Brydan to invoice the third-party directly to reinburse for your counselling sessions. However, you will need to provide evidence / confirmation of this prior to or at the initial counselling session. If this is not provided at the time, you will need to pay for your session and later seek reimbursement, until confirmation of funding being granted has been provided to Brydan.

A Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) is a treatment plan from a GP outlined on a simple document that looks at your mental health needs and goals, then outlines treatment guidelines to reach those goals with a psychologist. If you're registered with Medicare, a MHCP is needed for you to qualify for Medicare benefits, for which you’ll get a rebate of at least $93.35 per 50-60 minute session (2023/2024). Note that you will be required to pay the full session fee at the conclusion of each appointment, and Medicare will deposit the rebate directly into your nominated bank account within a few days. Medicare claims can be processed in-clinic, however if you make payment through your invoice or online, you can process this claim directly with Medicare, online or through tyhe Medicare App.

Yes, Brydan holds a Working With Children Check. His WWCC card number is 1608691A-02.