personal lives. Consider discussing any problems with your doctor. You can consult with
your General Practitioner about any concerns you have regarding your mental health.
GPs can refer you to appropriate health professionals such as social worker,
psychologists or psychiatrists. There is currently a Medicare rebate scheme that allows
your GP to refer you someone under what is termed a "mental health care plan".
This plan allows you to see a social worker or psychologist for up to 12 sessions
(reviewed after 6 sessions) and claim a rebate for those sessions. The psychologist
or social worker must be registered under this scheme for you to receive a rebate.
The Law Society NSW funds a 'Members Assistance Program' (MAP) which provides
free
confidential advice and counselling by qualified social worker and psychologists
to
members. This is a 24 hour service. Law Care is also available to help solicitors
and their
families.
Talk to an experienced lawyer via the Lawyers Assistance Program on 1800 777 662 for further information and counselling.
Similarly the NSW Bar Association provides confidential advice and counselling to NSW barristers through Bar Care, telephone 02 9331 3872 for more information.
NSW Young Lawyers has produced a brochure Understanding
Your Clients and Mental Illness which provides some introductory material
you may find useful.