Hi All,
I'm not sure I've got the correct email, but I just thought I'd put something out there that I was reflecting upon in relation to the Medicare rebates for 'Specialist' and 'Generalist' fees; whilst the rebate maybe less for 'Generalist psychologists', there is nothing preventing lesser qualified psychologists charging consultations at the 'Specialist' rate. For example, a 4x2 'psychologist' charging $200.00 per hour. I know of 'psychologists' in at least one practice where the fee is $200.00 per hour and not one of the psychologists is a 'Specialist'. Even less incentive to complete Masters/Doctoral degree if the aim is private practice...Kind regards to all, Marie

Hi Marie

I recall writing about this at an earlier time, that is, the fees we charge are not a reflection of one's level of ability in psychology. Rather, they are a reflection of what believes one's time is worth. The fee is also a measure of what you believe your market will bear. I think that most in our profession find these difficult issues with which to come to terms.

While I have calls from potential clients asking what I charge, these are in the minority (10%). Mostly calls are directed by referrals or word-of-mouth, and the fee is just accepted when the appointment is made. My impression is that this group (90%) do not "shop around" for fees. Instead they will shop around for skills.

So how would the average client know if a fee is high or low? I drop my fee for some, or I simply never put my fees up for those who have been in longer term therapy. Most are not aware I do this.

Regards from Perth

Derek

Derek Cohen
Clinical Psychologist

----- Original Message -----
From: hardman.marie@bigpond.com
To: ACPA members
Sent: Friday, September 03, 2010 2:28 AM
Subject: [ACPA] Generalist Fees

Hi All,
I'm not sure I've got the correct email, but I just thought I'd put something out there that I was reflecting upon in relation to the Medicare rebates for 'Specialist' and 'Generalist' fees; whilst the rebate maybe less for 'Generalist psychologists', there is nothing preventing lesser qualified psychologists charging consultations at the 'Specialist' rate. For example, a 4x2 'psychologist' charging $200.00 per hour. I know of 'psychologists' in at least one practice where the fee is $200.00 per hour and not one of the psychologists is a 'Specialist'. Even less incentive to complete Masters/Doctoral degree if the aim is private practice...Kind regards to all, Marie

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