Specialist Psychiatric Care

Expert Psychiatric
Consultations

Comprehensive assessments, diagnosis, and integrated care planning, delivered by our consultant psychiatrists in Balwyn North.

Comprehensive AssessmentThorough initial evaluation
Medicare RebatesAvailable with GP referral
GP Referral RequiredNamed referral from your GP
RANZCP RegisteredFully accredited psychiatrists
Dr. Katherine Steele
RANZCP Registered Psychiatrist
Dr. Katherine Steele
Consultant Psychiatrist, MBBS, M Psych, FRANZCP, MBA

Dr. Steele is an adult general psychiatrist with 20 years' experience treating mood disorders, anxiety, OCD, complex trauma, and women's mental health. She has a special interest in psychopharmacology and PMDD.

MBBS, M Psych (Psychiatry), FRANZCP, MBA, University of Melbourne
Accredited Schema Therapist, ISST
Basic & Advanced Certificates in CBT; Diploma in Clinical Hypnotherapy
Registered Medical Specialist, AHPRA
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Dr. Hon Chan
RANZCP Registered Psychiatrist
Dr. Hon Chan
Consultant Psychiatrist, MBBS, M Psych, FRANZCP

Dr. Chan is a consultant psychiatrist with extensive experience across inpatient, community, consultation-liaison, perinatal, geriatric, and emergency settings. He emphasises psychotherapy-informed, culturally competent care.

MBBS, M Psych (Psychiatry), FRANZCP
Fluent in English and Cantonese
Registered Medical Specialist, AHPRA
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What does a
psychiatrist do?

Psychiatrists are medical practitioners who have specialised in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions. In Australia, Psychiatrists are members of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists.

At Pre-Emptive Healthcare, you can expect your psychiatrist to complete a detailed assessment, including a thorough review of the biological, psychological, and social factors which could have an impact on an individual's mental health and wellbeing across the lifespan.

This approach allows our psychiatrists to understand the unique circumstances and needs of each patient.

Following a detailed assessment, your psychiatrist will develop a tailored treatment plan, prescribe medication, and provide ongoing care if required.

Psychiatrists can offer continuous support and follow-up care to support you in managing your mental health, if required.

Our psychiatrists work closely with GPs, psychologists, dietitians, and other allied health professionals to deliver collaborative, person-centred care.

With a strong focus on early intervention, continuity, and positive outcomes, our psychiatric treatment is tailored to support your mental health and wellbeing, long-term.

Comprehensive Assessment

A thorough evaluation of your mental health, personal history, and physical wellbeing, forming the foundation of an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

Medication Management

Careful, evidence-based prescribing when medication is appropriate, with ongoing monitoring and adjustment to optimise your wellbeing and minimise side effects.

Integrated Care Coordination

Working closely with your GP, psychologist and other treating clinicians to ensure your care is joined-up, consistent, and moving forward.

Conditions We Treat

Our psychiatrists have broad experience across a range of mental health presentations. Please note that individual psychiatrists work with different conditions. Their profiles explain what each treats.

01

Depression & Mood Disorders

Major depressive disorder, persistent depressive disorder and related mood conditions, assessed and managed with evidence-based approaches.

02

Anxiety Disorders

Generalised anxiety, social anxiety and OCD, assessed and managed with evidence-based approaches.

03

ADHD

Assessment and ongoing medication management for ADHD in adults.

04

Trauma & PTSD

Complex trauma and trauma-related conditions, working in tandem with our psychologists for holistic recovery.

05

Eating Disorders

Psychiatric assessment and management for binge eating disorder and bulimia, collaborating closely with our accredited dietitian.

06

Perinatal & Women's Mental Health

Perinatal mental health support, and women's mental health including premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and menopausal depression.

Your Pathway to Care

A clear, supportive process, from first contact to ongoing treatment.

1
Getting Started

GP Referral

To see a psychiatrist, a referral from your GP that includes the psychiatrist's name and details is required. Your GP can send the referral letter to admin@pre-emptive.com.au, or you can call our reception on 03 9989 3380 with any questions. A Mental Health Care Plan is not required for psychiatry. A standard referral letter is sufficient.

2
Booking

Initial Appointment

Our reception team will contact you to arrange your first appointment. We'll ask a few brief questions about your current concerns to ensure we match you appropriately and prepare for your visit.

3
Your First Visit

Comprehensive Assessment

Your psychiatrist will take a thorough history, exploring your current symptoms, personal background, medical history, family history, and goals. This isn't an interrogation; it's a conversation. You'll have space to share at your own pace in a calm, private setting.

4
Your Treatment Plan

Diagnosis & Care Planning

Following assessment, your psychiatrist will discuss their clinical impressions, any diagnoses, and a personalised treatment plan. This may include medication, psychological therapy, lifestyle recommendations, or referral within our team. A detailed report is sent to your GP.

5
Ongoing Support

Follow-Up & Review

Follow-up appointments monitor your progress, adjust medication if needed, and ensure your care plan continues to meet your evolving needs. We work closely with your GP and other clinicians to keep everyone aligned.

Fees & Referrals

How to Get a Referral

  • Book a standard appointment with your GP and ask for a referral to a consultant psychiatrist at Pre-Emptive Healthcare.
  • Your GP can send the referral letter to admin@pre-emptive.com.au or fax to our rooms.
  • A Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) is not required. A standard GP referral letter is all you need.
  • The referral must include the psychiatrist's name and details. Please call reception on 03 9989 3380 with any questions about the process.

Fees & Medicare Rebates

  • Medicare rebates apply to psychiatry appointments with a valid GP referral.
  • Please contact reception for current fees, rebate amounts and out-of-pocket costs.
  • Private health insurance may cover a portion of the gap. Check with your insurer.
  • Concession and NDIS arrangements available. Please enquire.

Frequently Asked

Answers to the questions we hear most often.

Do I need a GP referral to see a psychiatrist?

Yes. To see a psychiatrist, a referral from your GP that includes the psychiatrist's name and details is required. Your GP can also share relevant history with your psychiatrist to ensure your assessment is as thorough as possible. Please call us on 03 9989 3380 if you have any questions about this process.

What's the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can prescribe medication and provide a medical diagnosis. Psychologists have a psychology degree and specialise in talk-based therapies like CBT, ACT, and others. Many people benefit from both. At Pre-Emptive, our psychiatrists and psychologists work closely together so you get the best of both worlds under one roof.

What should I expect at my first appointment?

Your first appointment is a conversation, not a test. Your psychiatrist will ask about your current difficulties, your background, and your goals. They'll listen without judgment and work with you to understand what's happening. By the end, you'll have a clear sense of next steps, whether that's further assessment, a treatment plan, or a referral within our team.

Will I definitely be prescribed medication?

Not necessarily. Medication is one tool among many, and it's always your choice. Your psychiatrist will discuss all available options (including therapy, lifestyle changes, and other interventions) and will only recommend medication if they believe it's genuinely likely to benefit you. You'll always be involved in every decision.

Can I see a psychiatrist via telehealth?

Our psychiatrists consult in person at our Balwyn North rooms. If distance or circumstances make attending difficult, please call reception on 03 9989 3380 to ask about telehealth availability.

How long will I need to see the psychiatrist?

This varies widely depending on your needs. Some people have a one-off assessment and are then supported by their GP and psychologist. Others benefit from more regular review appointments, particularly while on medication. We'll always discuss a plan that makes sense for your situation, and revisit it as things change.

Ready to get the right
support?

Ask your GP for a referral, or contact us directly and our team will guide you through the next steps.

Call 03 9989 3380

Or email admin@pre-emptive.com.au. We'll respond within one business day.