At Valewood Clinic, we understand that mental health plays an important role in your overall health and quality of life. Life’s challenges, changes and everyday pressures can sometimes affect how you feel, think and cope with daily activities. Mental health difficulties can also affect our relationships, social connections and ability to participate in the activities that matter to us. Having the right support can help you better understand these challenges and take positive steps towards improved wellbeing.
Our GPs provide a welcoming, respectful and supportive environment where you can discuss your concerns without fear of judgement. Whether you are experiencing emotional difficulties, managing an ongoing mental health condition or simply finding life more difficult than usual, we are here to listen and help you explore appropriate treatment options.
When Should You Seek Mental Health Support?
Mental health concerns can affect anyone at any stage of life. If you notice changes in your mood, behaviour or ability to manage everyday responsibilities, speaking with a GP can be a helpful first step. You do not need to wait until your symptoms become severe before seeking assistance.
You may wish to arrange a consultation if you are experiencing:
Ongoing emotional distress: Persistent feelings of sadness, worry, anxiety, frustration or hopelessness.
Changes in sleep or appetite: Difficulty sleeping, sleeping more than usual or
noticeable changes in eating patterns.
Challenges with daily life: Trouble concentrating, maintaining motivation or managing responsibilities at home, work or school.
Stress and life changes: Difficulty coping with work-related pressures, family
concerns, relationship difficulties or significant life events.
Reduced interest in activities: Feeling disconnected from others or losing interest in hobbies and activities you previously enjoyed.
Physical symptoms associated with stress: Ongoing tiredness, headaches or other physical complaints that may be linked to emotional distress.
Changes in coping habits: Finding yourself relying more frequently on alcohol or other substances to manage difficult feelings.
Existing mental health concerns: Experiencing changes in your symptoms or needing further assistance with your current treatment.
Seeking support early may help you better understand what you are experiencing, identify suitable treatment options and develop strategies to support your mental and emotional wellbeing.
Mental Health Treatment Plans
A Mental Health Treatment Plan can be an important part of managing a mental health condition or challenge. Your GP will discuss your concerns, assess your individual needs and work with you to develop an appropriate plan based on your circumstances and treatment goals.
Your GP may also refer you to our in-house psychologist, Prabha Mishra, or another eligible mental health professional for additional support. Eligible patients can access Medicare rebates for up to 10 individual psychological therapy services per calendar year, subject to Medicare requirements and referral arrangements. Your GP can explain the available options and help you understand the next steps.
Your care is guided by your individual needs, with an emphasis on finding appropriate support and helping you work towards better mental health.
Book a Mental Health Consultation with Valewood Clinic Today
At Valewood Clinic, we welcome patients from all backgrounds and stages of life. We aim to provide a safe, inclusive and non-judgmental setting where you can discuss your mental health concerns openly and receive care with compassion and respect.
Your privacy is important to us, and your information is handled confidentially in accordance with applicable privacy requirements.
If you would like to discuss your mental health or explore available support options, we
encourage you to make an appointment with one of our GPs.
To make an appointment, please book online or contact our reception team for assistance on (03) 9560 6655.
Taking the first step can make a big difference. Our team at Valewood Clinic is here to help you navigate your options and support your wellbeing.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. You can make an appointment with your GP to discuss concerns about your mood, stress, sleep, relationships or general emotional wellbeing, even if you do not have a diagnosis. Your GP can assess your concerns and recommend appropriate support.
While Valewood Clinic does have their own in house psychologist, you can certainly discuss your preferences with your GP and they can help you obtain an appropriate referral. Availability, fees and referral requirements may vary between providers.
Our GPs encourage follow-up appointments to continuously monitor your mental and physical health, and provide appropriate care.
If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 for 24-hour crisis support. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, please call 000.
