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FPS is available for selected eligible clients who have been assessed by their General Practitioner (GP) and meet the criteria under a Mental Health Treatment Plan. Eligibility is determined based on the nature and severity of the mental health concern, the goals of therapy, and the potential benefit of short-term, structured psychological intervention.

What Does Focused Psychological Services Involve?

FPS typically includes:

Short-term therapy: Usually up to 10 individual sessions per calendar year (more may be available in exceptional circumstances).
Evidence-based approaches: Such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), or mindfulness-based strategies.
Goal-focused care: Designed to improve functioning, reduce symptoms, and develop effective coping strategies.

Benefits of Focused Psychological Services (FPS)

Focused Psychological Services offers structured mental health support that is both short-term and highly targeted. The key benefits include:

Improved Mental Health: Helps manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, stress, and other emotional issues.
Early Intervention: Addresses mental health concerns before they become more severe or long-term.
Better Coping Skills: Equips clients with practical strategies to handle stress, conflict, grief, or trauma.
Improved Daily Functioning: Supports better performance at work, school, or in relationships.
Medicare Rebates: Eligible clients can access services at a reduced out-of-pocket cost under a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan.
Evidence-Based Care: Delivers therapies that are proven to work, such as CBT and mindfulness-based techniques.

Types of Focused Psychological Services (FPS)?

FPS involves a variety of psychological therapies tailored to the individual's specific condition and goals. Common types include:

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Helps clients change negative patterns of thinking and behaviour.
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): Focuses on improving communication and relationship difficulties.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Encourages acceptance of life experiences while committing to personal values.
Problem-Solving Therapy: Assists with managing daily life stressors and making effective decisions.
Mindfulness-Based Strategies: Involves breathing, relaxation, and awareness exercises to reduce stress and improve mood.
Psychoeducation: Offers information to help understand and manage a condition more effectively.

These therapies are typically delivered in a structured manner over several sessions and are designed to achieve specific therapeutic outcomes.

What to Do Before Starting an FPS Session?

Visit Your GP: The first step is booking an appointment with a General Practitioner.
Mental Health Assessment: Your GP will assess your emotional well-being, current concerns, and medical history.
Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP): If you are eligible, the GP will prepare a care plan and refer you to an appropriate clinician.
Choose a Provider: You may be referred to a psychologist, an accredited social worker, or an occupational therapist with mental health training.
Understand the Process: Your clinician or GP will explain what FPS involves and answer any questions you may have.

What Happens During an FPS Session?

Each session is designed to be structured, goal-oriented, and supportive. During FPS, you can expect:

Confidential Conversations: A safe space to talk about your challenges, emotions, and thoughts.
Assessment and Goal Setting: Your clinician will work with you to identify problems and set realistic goals.
Therapeutic Activities: This may include learning stress management skills, challenging negative thinking, role-playing situations, or relaxation techniques.
Progress Monitoring: Your progress will be reviewed regularly, and therapy techniques may be adjusted as needed.
Short-Term Engagement: FPS typically includes up to 10 Medicare-subsidised sessions per year, with the possibility of additional sessions in some cases.

What to Expect After an FPS Session?

After completing a course of FPS, clients often report greater self-awareness and better emotional well-being. Here's what typically follows:

Improved Coping Skills: Most clients develop lasting tools for managing stress, anxiety, or low mood.
Better Communication and Relationships: Especially for those who worked on interpersonal or family challenges.
Increased Confidence: People often feel more in control of their lives and mental health.
Follow-Up with GP: A review with your GP helps assess progress and determine whether more sessions or further referrals are needed.
Ongoing Self-Care: You may be encouraged to continue using the techniques you’ve learned or to engage in group support, lifestyle changes, or community resources.

Focused Psychological Services (FPS) Prognosis

For eligible individuals, the prognosis with FPS is generally positive. These services are designed to deliver tangible improvements within a relatively short timeframe. The expected outcomes include:

Symptom Reduction: Many people experience a noticeable reduction in symptoms of anxiety, depression, stress, or trauma.
Functional Improvement: FPS can enhance day-to-day functioning in areas like work, study, relationships, and self-care.
Early Recovery Support: When accessed early, FPS may prevent more severe mental health issues from developing.
Increased Resilience: Clients often gain lifelong tools to manage emotional challenges more confidently in the future.
Tailored Progress: The success of FPS varies by individual, depending on the nature of the problem, personal engagement in therapy, and the support systems in place.

While not a cure-all, FPS can be a highly effective part of a person’s broader mental health care plan.

Focused Psychological Services (FPS) Risks

FPS is generally safe and well-tolerated, but as with any psychological treatment, there are some risks and considerations to be aware of:

Emotional Discomfort: Discussing painful experiences or emotions may cause temporary distress during sessions.
Unmet Expectations: Some individuals may expect immediate results, but emotional healing often takes time.
Therapeutic Mismatch: Occasionally, the therapeutic style may not be suitable for the client, and a change in clinician or approach may be necessary.
Limited Scope: FPS is best suited for mild to moderate conditions. Severe or complex mental health issues may require more intensive or longer-term care.
Dependence Risk: While rare, some clients may develop a reliance on sessions without using the strategies learned independently.

Good communication with your clinician and GP, along with regular progress reviews, can help manage these risks effectively.

If you or someone you know may benefit from FPS, it is best to speak with a GP promptly to start the assessment and referral process.

Eligibility and Referral Pathway for FPS

FPS is a structured service funded under the Australian Government's Better Access initiative, designed to support people experiencing common mental health conditions. Here's how to access it:

Step 1 – GP Visit: Book an appointment with your GP for a mental health assessment.
Step 2 – Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP): If eligible, your GP will develop a plan tailored to your needs.
Step 3 – Referral: The GP will refer you to a qualified mental health clinician, such as a psychologist, social worker, or occupational therapist, who is trained in mental health.
Step 4 – Initial Sessions: You can access up to 6 sessions first. After a review, up to 4 more sessions may be approved within the same calendar year.
Step 5 – Review and Continuation: Progress will be reviewed with your clinician and GP. If necessary, further referrals or a new plan can be arranged.

Note: Services may be delivered in person or via telehealth, depending on your preference and availability of both options.

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Focused Psychological Services (FPS)

What are Focused Psychological Services (FPS)?

Who is Eligible for Focused Psychological Services?