BEING WITH FAQ’s
Being With FAQ's are here to help!
If it’s your first time working with a psychiatrist, you may be unsure of what to expect. See some of our most frequently asked questions below. You can always contact us directly if you have specific questions prior to attending your first appointment.
How long is an initial consult?
The assessment process takes two to three four hours and is usually undertaken over more than one appointment. Initial appointments for families are two 60 minute sessions and for adults, one 90 minute session. Subsequent appointments are 30-60 minutes.
Is Being With right for me?
If you or your child is experiencing mental health difficulties, a psychiatrist can help identify patterns and causes and work through these to assist you to move towards the life you want to live. We recommend speaking with your GP who can then make a referral for you.
Being With can support people from babies (and their parents) to 65-year-olds with mental health struggles. Rachel has been working in mental health for over 20 years. Please note that Being With does not accept referrals for adults over the age of 65 years old.
Can I bring a support person to my session?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring a support person to your session if you would like to.
What do I need for my first appointment?
If additional information is required, we you will let you know beforehand.
I suspect my child may have ADHD, do you offer a diagnosis?
Being With does offer ADHD assessments. This usually includes two one-hour assessment sessions, gathering information from teachers (under 18-year-olds), or significant others/work/education (adults), and ADHD questionnaires as required, and feedback about diagnosis and treatment options (often at the end of the second session). More time may be required for more complex presentations.
Most ADHD assessments are $1,600. If a formal report is required, we charge at a pro rata rate of $500 per hour.
Do you offer emergency support?
Our practice does not offer emergency assistance. If you’re in need of urgent help please get in touch with your GP or local mental health service.
In the greater Wellington region, Te Haika are available 24 hours a day to assist people and to connect with the Crisis Resolution Service, or assist with a referral to a local, government-funded mental health or addiction service.
You can contact Te Haika on 0800 745 477 or through Wellington Hospital via 04 385 5999
I’m worried about a friend of mine, how can I help them?
We encourage you to have a conversation with them about your concerns and, if they are able, ask them to get in touch with their GP or contact Te Haika on 0800 745 477
What’s the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Although there is a considerable overlap between the two, psychiatrists are medically trained and are licensed to prescribe medication should it be needed.
Do I need a GP referral?
Yes, Being With requires a referral from your GP. However, we welcome initial enquiries directly from you, your family/whanau, and other health professionals.
What are your fees?
The consultation fee is $500 per hour.
We book first consultations as a 60-90minute appointment. Please note that a full psychiatric assessment and treatment plan can take up to three to four hours, often over more than one appointment.
See specifics in our Practice Information document. This will be sent to you prior to your first appointment.
Where are you located?
Being With is based at Level 2, Central House, 26 Brandon St, Wellington (inside the Brandon St Practice).
If you have trouble locating our office, please give us a call on 04 472 4198
Can I cancel an appointment?
We understand life happens, and unexpected events may mean you can’t make a scheduled appointment. No fee is charged if more than 24 hours notice is given.
Please refer to the CANCELLATION POLICY & NON-ATTENDANCE section in our Practice Information document. This will be sent prior to your first appointment or on request.