One of the most common conversations we have with parents at Breakfree Psychology Services starts like this: "I think my child might need an assessment — but I just don't know if we can afford it right now."
It's a completely understandable concern. The increased cost of living is real, family budgets are stretched, and psychological assessments are not a small expense. But here's what we want every parent in Townsville to know: cost does not have to be a barrier to getting your child the support they need.
We have deliberately built our assessment process around the reality of what families are dealing with financially. Here are five things that make assessments with us more manageable than you might expect.
1. Know the Reality — and Know You're Not Alone
The first thing we always tell parents is this: psychological assessments are not covered by Medicare. There is no rebate and no bulk-billing option for assessment work. The one exception is for families where the child has **NDIS funding** — in that case, assessment costs can be covered through an appropriate NDIS plan, and we are experienced in working with NDIS-funded clients.
For families without NDIS funding, the full cost of an assessment is an out-of-pocket expense. We say this not to discourage you, but because we believe in being upfront — knowing the reality means you can plan properly rather than being caught off guard.
What we can tell you with equal honesty is that you are far from alone in finding this challenging. That is exactly why we have structured our service the way we have.
2. Start With a Low-Cost Initial Screen
Not sure whether your child actually needs a full psychological assessment? You don't have to commit to the full cost on day one.
We offer a **low-cost initial screening appointment** before any significant costs are incurred. This is an opportunity to sit down with one of our psychologists, talk through your concerns, and get a professional perspective on whether a full assessment is the right next step for your child — and if so, what kind.
The screening helps us understand what's going on and helps you make an informed decision, without financial pressure. If a full assessment is recommended, we'll explain clearly what it involves, how long it will take, and what it will cost — so there are no surprises.
We only recommend further assessment when we genuinely believe it will make a meaningful difference to your child's outcomes.
3. Spread the Assessment Over Several Weeks
One of the most common misconceptions parents have about psychological assessments is that everything happens in one long, expensive appointment. At Breakfree Psychology Services, that's not how we work.
We can **spread your child's assessment across several weeks**, breaking it into manageable sessions rather than a single large block. This approach is not only more financially manageable — it is often better for the child as well, reducing fatigue and allowing each component of the assessment to be conducted properly.
Spreading the assessment over time means payments are not all required upfront. You pay as you go, one session at a time, rather than facing a single large invoice.
4. Flexible Payment Plans
For families who are planning ahead, we also offer **flexible payment plan options** so the total cost of an assessment can be spread across your monthly budget rather than hitting all at once.
We encourage parents to have an honest conversation with us about what is financially workable. We are not here to judge — we are here to help your child get the support they need. Our team will work with you to find a structure that makes the process genuinely achievable rather than financially overwhelming.
When you call to enquire, simply ask about payment plan options and we'll talk you through what's available.
5. Come Prepared to Keep Sessions Efficient
One practical thing every parent can do to help keep the overall cost of an assessment down is to come prepared. The more efficiently each session runs, the fewer sessions are needed — and the lower the total cost.
Before your first appointment, gather together:
- School reports from the past two years
- Any previous reports — speech, occupational therapy, educational assessments
- A GP referral letter (helpful, though not always required)
- Your own written notes on what you have noticed — when it started, what triggers it, what you have already tried, and what teachers or others have observed
Coming in with this information ready means we can hit the ground running. Fewer sessions needed equals a lower total investment for your family.
A Note on NDIS Funding
If your child already has an NDIS plan, or you believe they may be eligible for NDIS support, assessment costs may be fully covered through their funding. We work directly with NDIS-funded clients and can help guide you through how to use your child's plan for assessment purposes.
Ready to Take the First Step?
If you've been putting off getting your child assessed because of cost, we hope this has shown you that there is a more manageable path forward than you may have thought.
The best thing to do right now is give us a call. We'll have a genuine conversation about your child's needs, walk you through our process, and find an approach that works for your family — practically and financially.
You know your child better than anyone. Let us help you get them the answers and support they deserve.
📞 Call us 0479 149 277