Resources & publications
Post Traumatic Stress & Bushfire Counselling Resources and Publications
This resource was last updated on 07 February 2012.
Eastern Ranges GP Association (ERGPA) has entered its second phase of counselling and support to those people living in the bushfire affected regions. ERGPA was one of the many organisations on the ground after the 2009 Black Saturday Fires working both directly with clients through the ERGPA Bushfire Counselling Team and indirectly through the ATAPS NEMICS program. We are entering our fourth year and while the initial crisis is well and truly over the emotional pain is continuing and presenting as general anxiety and depression and emerging as Post Traumatic Stress. It is for this group of people that we are now offering our Post Traumatic Stress & Bushfire Counselling (PTS&BC) service.
The Mental Health Professionals have extensive experience in trauma and grief counselling 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 counselling.
Who can be referred to this service?
Any individual experience ongoing symptoms of anxiety, depression and/or stress and is currently living in the Bushfire regions or was living in the Bushfire regions in 2009. Mental Health Care Plans are not required and whilst GP referral is preferred, self referral is also acceptable.
Are there any costs to the patient?
No, this is a free service that will incur no fees.
Is the counselling limited to a number of sessions?
No, the counselling is unlimited to the number of sessions that can be accessed.
Where can patients be seen?
Counselling will take place in a variety of settings and locations including General Practices, Community Health Services and Local Government Offices in the suburbs of:
Alexandra
Eildon
Healesville
Kinglake
Lilydale
Marysville
Yarra Glen
Yarra Junction
Yea
Are referred patients expected to have a Mental Health Care Plan (MBS Item 2710) developed for them?
No, this service does not require a Mental Health Care Plan however linkages with GP's are strongly encouraged.
How do I make referrals to this service?
Using the specified ERGPA referral forms which can be obtained from:
ERGPA Intake: Phone (03) 9871 1000
Email: admin@ergpa.com.au or
Online Referral Form (see link below)
Please fax referrals to ERGPA Intake on secure fax: 8677 9510 attaching any relevant information.
Patients will be contacted and an appointment time made.