What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists and psychologists are both mental health professionals, but differ in their training, approach, and the treatments they provide.
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who have completed at least 10-12 years of education and training including medical school and specialised training in psychiatry. They can assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. As part of their treatment approach, they can prescribe medications and offer therapy which may include therapies employed by psychologists.
Psychologists have advanced training in psychology such as a masters or doctoral degree (Ph.D or Psy.D) with at least 6 years of education and training. They can also assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. As part of their treatment approach, they can offer a range of “talk therapies” such as cognitive-behavioural therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy, mindfulness based therapy, and family therapy. Psychologists are not medical doctors and cannot prescribe medications.
Do you offer telehealth (video or phone) appointments?
Telehealth appointments are not available at this time. Ecdysis Clinical Psychedelic Therapy is solely an in-person practice. All appointments occur at our physical location in Wellington.
What is the age range of patients seen?
Adults aged 18 and above. If the individual has age-related concerns such as dementia, please refer to an old age (geriatric) psychiatrist.
When is your next available appointment?
Availability of appointments can vary significantly. Individuals interested in an appointment should submit a referral. If we are not able to facilitate an appointment we will endeavour to provide you an estimate of the wait time for an appointment
Can I self-refer?
Yes. You may self-refer to Ecdysis. Your GP, therapist, or other health provider may also refer on your behalf.
Please note that we cannot accept self-referrals if you do not have a GP.
Am I required to have a GP while receiving care from Ecdysis?
Yes. It is clinic policy that all individuals receiving care from Ecdysis must have a GP. This policy ensures that individuals receive whole person care as medical conditions may affect mental health conditions. General health conditions are not managed by Ecdysis.
What can I expect at the initial appointment?
At the initial appointment, a comprehensive evaluation (interview) is conducted to better understand your presenting concerns in addition to relevant aspects of your health such as psychiatric, medical, personal, family, and psychosocial history. You are invited to share as much as you are comfortable and to ask questions. At the end, a summary (including preliminary / working diagnosis) is shared followed by a discussion of treatment considerations tailored to the individual.
What does a typical course of assessment and treatment for ADHD look like?
A typical course of care for assessment and treatment of ADHD begins with an initial assessment and diagnosis. If the diagnosis of ADHD is made then treatment will be initiated. There will be several follow-up appointments to find the right medication and the right dosage. This typically takes from 3-6 follow-up appointments (usually 30 minute appointments). Some cases may take more appointments if there are multiple medication changes while trying to find the right medication and dose. Once the right medication and dosage is found then a brief period of follow-up is recommended with Ecdysis prior to transferring care and follow-on prescriptions to your GP.
Ecdysis does not provide recertifications of prior diagnoses without a full initial ADHD assessment session.
Record keeping
Medical records are kept regarding all sessions of care provided. These records follow guidance from the Medical Council of New Zealand and meet all requirements under New Zealand law. Records may be requested at any time. Due to limited staffing, it may take some time to provide copies of records but we will endeavor to provide these in a timely fashion.
Spiritual and Cultural Safety
Mental health issues often intersect with spiritual, religious, ancestral, and cultural identity. We are committed to supporting spiritual and cultural safety throughout the process. This includes honouring your worldview, cultural identity, and preferred healing practices, and making space for religious, cultural, and spiritual frameworks meaningful to you. You are encouraged to share any spiritual, religious, or cultural needs with us so that the treatment is inclusive, respectful, and supportive of your whole being.
Is Ecdysis a rainbow friendly practice?
Yes. Very much so.
What are my rights as a patient?
When you use any health services in New Zealand, you have the protection of The Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights: https://www.hdc.org.nz/your-rights/the-code-and-your-rights/
How do I submit a complaint against Ecdysis Clinical Psychedelic Therapy?
When you use any health services in New Zealand, you have the right to complain about a provider. You have the right to complain directly to the provider, to any person or agency authorised to receive complaints about that provider, and any other appropriate person or agency including the Health and Disability Commissioner. For complaints to be provided directly to Ecdysis Clinical Psychedelic Therapy, please provide the details in an email to complaints@ecdysis.co.nz. We appreciate feedback in all forms including complaints and criticisms. We see such as an opportunity to improve and grow. Ecdysis adheres to the guidance set out in the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights (https://www.hdc.org.nz/your-rights/about-the-code/code-of-health-and-disability-services-consumers-rights/)