What is a psychiatrist and who should see one?

A Psychiatrist is a medical doctor who has done a further 5 years study to specialise in the psychological (talking therapy) and pharmacological (prescribing medications) treatment of mental illness.

If you feel you need to see a Psychiatrist the best person to talk to is your General Practitioner (GP). If your GP agrees a Psychiatrist may be of help they need to write a referral letter. 

Anyone with a mental health issue/illness can see a psychiatrist

Psychiatrist can help with major mental illness such as Schizophrenia, Depression, Bipolar affective disorder (manic depression), Social Anxiety, Panic attacks, Agorophobia, Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Drug, Alcohol and Gambling problems as well as Relationship problems.

What is a Psychologist and who should see one?

Psychologists are experts in human behaviour, having studied the brain, memory, learning, human development and the processes determining how people think, feel, behave and react. Psychologists apply their expertise using reliable and scientifically supported methods. Psychological therapies are widely used to treat individuals and families and can also be applied to groups and organizations. Registration as a psychologist is governed by State and Territory Psychology Registration Board.

What Can a Psychologist help me with?

How often do I need to see a Psychologist?

A schedule for appointments will depend on your needs, your particular circumstances, your goals and your commitment. Most people come for approximately 4-12 sessions. Usually, there are a number of weekly sessions followed by fortnightly, monthly or yearly sessions.
Some clients with very specific issues may only need a couple of sessions. Some clients come for longer-term therapy over a period of years.

What kinds of clients see a Psychologist?

• Individuals
• Families
• Couples
  
• Children
• Adolescents
• Individuals in the workplace

What is Acupuncture and how can it help?

Acupuncture is based on a complex system of meridians that carry Qi, or energy, around your body. Injury, stress and illness are created by a disruption to the flow or quality of your Qi and blood. Using hair-fine needles, the aim of acupuncture treatment is to regulate Qi and blood throughout your body in order to create a state of free flow - the key to optimum health.

Through the stimulation of specific points, acupuncture activates the body's innate healing response by gently drawing attention to the area that is in distress.

Acupuncture can have profound effects on your spirit, mind and body. People are happy to discover that acupuncture is not painful. Many describe it as a relaxing experience, and some even fall asleep during treatments. In addition to relief of their symptoms, most people report a deep sense of calm and a heightened sense of well-being after acupuncture treatment.

What should I expect from acupuncture?

Acupuncture is not like the needle you have at the doctor's surgery. Acupuncture needles cause minimal to no pain. If you feel nervous or uncomfortable, the needles can be adjusted to your liking.

Sensations you may feel include:

• A slight 'flick' or 'mosquito bite' as the needle goes in
• A mild tingling, heaviness or warmth when the needle is in place.
• Relaxation of your mind and body
• After treatment you may experience a sensation of deep relaxation, lightness or 'spaciness', heightened wellbeing, or increased energy.

Where are the acupuncture needles placed?

During a treatment you may have 4-14 needles, depending on your condition. They are usually placed on your extremities as the points here tend have a stronger effect, although it is not uncommon to have them on your back or stomach. Needles are kept in place for 20-30 minutes, during which many people choose to sleep or let their mind drift off.

Is It Safe?

When conducted by a trained acupuncturist, acupuncture is very safe. Occasionally a slight bruise may appear around the area of the needle, but this is relatively rare. Aja follows the Universal Aseptic Technique and uses sterilised, single-use needles.

What can an Acupuncturist help me with?

What age range are acupuncture clients?

Infants, children, adolescents, adults

How often would I need to see an Acupuncturist?

This really depends on the severity and duration of your condition, your constitution, and (most of all) the objective of your treatment. Most people start to feel their body responding after the very first treatment.

General guideline for treatment:

• Acute conditions usually resolve within 1-4 treatments.
• Chronic conditions will really start to shift after 4 treatments, but may take longer before they are completely resolved.
  
• Preventative care and health maintenance treatments occur once a month or less.
• Ultimately, the treatment schedule will be based around your condition, your health goals, and how much time you can devote to your wellbeing. This will be discussed with you during your first visit.

Why would I see a Dietician?

A dietician is the best person to seek advice about food and diet. Nutritionists specialise in food and diet and how they affects our day to day living. Healthy eating is very important in maintaining good health and a healthy lifestyle.

What can a Dieticin help me with?

What are some benefits of seeing a Dietician?

• Better health
• Improved bowel movements
  
• Improved diet
• Improved quality of life
• Increased energy
• Nutrient nourishments
• Reduce health risks
• Weight control

What can an Exercise Physiologist help me with?

There is good evidence from many studies showing that regular physical activity of an appropriate type, intensity and frequency can:

• Relieve stress, and reduce the impact of anxiety and depression
  
• Help to reduce body fat and maintain a healthy weight
• Keep blood pressure and cholesterol levels in the healthy range
• Lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attack and stroke
• Help to prevent diabetes
• Improve work capacity
• Improve general wellbeing