Resources
ADHD Assessments What We Assess: An ADHD assessment explores the symptoms that impact your daily life — such as attention, motivation, organisation, or emotional regulation. Our psychiatrists consider your developmental history, current challenges, and any co-existing conditions like anxiety or depression. Common areas explored: 1: Focus and distractibility 2: Time management and organisation 3. Impulsivity and emotional control 4. Relationships and work performance 5. Childhood symptoms and family history The Referral Process: To access an ADHD assessment, please ask your GP for a “291 psychiatric assessment for ADHD” referral. Currently, we accept referrals for patients in Victoria and Tasmania. Wait times are typically around four weeks, but can vary. Our reception team will always confirm the most up-to-date availability. What to Expect Before the Appointment: Our caring admin team will guide you through each step. You’ll receive a few short screening forms to complete, and we’ll ask for supporting information — such as school reports or a short note from someone who knows you well. We understand paperwork can be challenging. We’ll keep it minimal and provide clear guidance along the way. During the Appointment: Your consultation will last about an hour. The psychiatrist will discuss your history, explore symptoms, and clarify whether ADHD best explains your experiences. After the Appointment: Within a few days, your psychiatrist will send a comprehensive report to your GP. It will include a diagnosis (if confirmed), treatment recommendations, and next steps. Your GP remains your ongoing prescriber. If stimulant medication is recommended, your GP will apply for the necessary permit before prescribing.
General Psychiatric Assessments Common Reasons for Assessment: 1. Anxiety, panic, or excessive worry 2. Depression, low mood, or burnout 3. Trauma or post-traumatic stress 4. Sleep, focus, or energy difficulties 5. Adjustment to life stressors 6. Medication review or diagnostic clarification The Assessment Process: 1. Referral Ask your GP to send a referral for a “291 psychiatric assessment” to info@mindatpeace.com.au 2. Appointment Your tele-health appointment lasts around 60 minutes. Your psychiatrist will explore your history, challenges, and goals for recovery. 3. Report A detailed written report is sent to your GP within a few days, including diagnosis, medication or therapy recommendations, and next steps. Collaborative Care: We work closely with GPs, psychologists, and therapists to ensure continuity of care and practical follow-up plans. Our psychiatrists provide one-off comprehensive assessments (MBS Item 291) rather than ongoing therapy, ensuring your local care team remains central to your recovery.
Old Age Psychiatry Our Services: Memory & Thinking Support - Gentle, thorough assessments for cognitive decline, dementia, and decision-making capacity. Mood & Wellbeing in Later Life - Understanding and treating depression, anxiety, or emotional changes related to ageing. Behavioural & Medication Support - Practical guidance for managing distressing behaviours, and expert reviews of psychotropic or complex medication regimens. Family & Carer Guidance - Empathetic advice and communication to help families plan and cope confidently. Collaboration with GPs & Aged Care Homes - We work closely with doctors and care teams to ensure seamless, coordinated support. How It Works: 1. Referral: Your GP or aged-care home sends us a referral for a geriatric psychiatry assessment. 2. Telehealth Consultation: The psychiatrist meets with the patient, often with family or staff present. 3. Care Plan: A written report and practical recommendations are sent to the GP or facility.
Driver’s Licence Psychiatric Assessments What the Assessment Involves: 1. Detailed clinical interview 2. Review of mental health and medical history 3. Evaluation of cognition, attention, and judgement 4. Comprehensive report outlining fitness to drive Our psychiatrists are experienced in providing assessments aligned with AustRoads and state transport authority guidelines. Referral Details: Please ask your GP to send a referral for a 291 driver’s licence psychiatric assessment to: info@mindatpeace.com.au. We will contact you promptly to arrange your tele-health appointment.
IVF & Fertility Treatment Assessments Why a Psychiatric Assessment May Be Required: Under ATO guidelines, individuals can apply to access part of their superannuation to fund medical treatment such as IVF. The ATO requires two medical reports: 1. A report from your treating specialist (e.g., fertility specialist or obstetrician), and 2. A report from a psychiatrist confirming that the treatment is necessary to treat or alleviate psychological distress. What to Expect: Your psychiatrist will: 1. Conduct a supportive discussion about your emotional wellbeing and treatment journey. 2. Prepare a compliant report for the ATO and your specialist. 3. Ensure the process is efficient, compassionate, and handled with complete confidentiality. Our Commitment: We understand that fertility treatment can be a time of hope, stress, and vulnerability. Our role is to make this part of the process calm, respectful, and clear — so you can focus on your next step.
Understanding MBS Item 291: What It Means for You What is MBS Item 291? MBS Item 291 refers to a one-off, comprehensive psychiatric assessment and report. It allows your GP to seek specialist input from a psychiatrist to clarify diagnosis and outline a clear treatment plan. Why it matters Many people assume seeing a psychiatrist means long-term therapy. A 291 assessment is different — it’s a focused consultation designed to provide clarity and guidance that your GP can use to manage your ongoing care. What happens during the appointment The psychiatrist will explore your medical and mental-health history, discuss current challenges, and assess contributing factors such as stress, sleep, medication, and life events. The session usually lasts about an hour and is conducted securely via video. After your assessment Within a few days, your GP receives a detailed written report. It includes diagnostic impressions, treatment suggestions, and any recommendations for therapy or medication. In summary MBS Item 291 provides a bridge between general practice and specialist psychiatry — a partnership that ensures your care is coordinated, evidence-based, and personal.
ADHD and Telehealth: What to Expect Living with untreated ADHD can impact concentration, confidence, and relationships. Telehealth offers a private, convenient way to receive an expert assessment and clear plan forward. Before your assessment Our team will email brief questionnaires and ask for background information, such as school reports or a short note from someone who knows you well. This helps build a complete picture of your experiences. During your appointment The psychiatrist explores your history, current challenges, and how symptoms affect your work, study, or relationships. Sessions last around an hour and feel conversational rather than clinical. After your assessment Your psychiatrist prepares a report for your GP, confirming diagnosis (if appropriate) and outlining treatment options. If stimulant medication is recommended, your GP will apply for the required permit before prescribing.
How to Prepare for Your Telehealth Psychiatric Assessment Telehealth makes mental-health care accessible from the comfort of your own space. A few small steps can help your appointment run smoothly and reduce stress. 1. Choose a quiet, private space Select a room where you won’t be interrupted. Good lighting helps your psychiatrist see you clearly. 2. Check your technology Test your camera, microphone, and internet connection before your session. Headphones can help reduce background noise. 3. Have your notes ready Jot down key concerns, medication names, or questions you want answered. If you’re being assessed for ADHD or another condition, gather relevant school or medical reports. 4. Be kind to yourself It’s normal to feel nervous. You’re taking an important step toward understanding and improving your mental health. After your appointment, take time to reflect or rest — self-care is part of the process.