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Bushfire Councelling Referral Forms
This resource was last updated on 19 May 2010.
Eastern Ranges GP Association (ERGPA) has employed 9 Mental Health Professionals to provide counseling and support to bushfire affected individuals.
The Mental Health Professionals have extensive experience in trauma and grief counseling and have professional qualifications in either Mental Health Nursing or Social Work. Our team has a wide variety of skills and expertise which will be matched to referrals to ensure the most appropriate care is given.
Mental Health Professionals will be placed in various sites and locations throughout the bushfire affected areas of the Divisions catchment where referred patients can be seen for counseling.
Who can be referred to this service?
Any individual assessed by a GP or Department of Human Services Bushfire Case Manager as having or being at risk of developing a mental health disorder because of the Victorian bushfires of February 2009.
Are there any costs to the patient?
No, this is a free service that will incur no fees.
Is the counseling limited to a number of sessions?
No, the counseling is unlimited to the number of sessions that can be accessed.
Where can patients be seen?
Counseling will take place in a variety of settings and locations including General Practices, Community Health Services, Local Government Offices and Recovery Centers in the suburbs of:
- Alexandra
- Buxton
- Eildon
- Healesville
- Lilydale
- Yarra Glen
- Yarra Junction
- Yea
Are referred patients expected to have a Mental Health Care Plan (MBS Item 2710) developed for them?
Referrals from GPs are expected to have a Mental Health Care Plan attached to them. Referrals from Bushfire Case Managers are accepted on the proviso that a Mental Health Care Plan will be developed by their GP while the patient is receiving counseling.
How do I make referrals to this service?
Using the specified ERGPA referral forms which can be obtained from ERGPA Intake on 9871 1000 or via email admin@ergpa.com.au
Please fax referrals to ERGPA Intake on 9879 5407 attaching any relevant information. Patients will be contacted and an appointment time made.