Access Medicare rebates for eligible psychology appointments
If you're thinking about seeing a psychologist, a Mental Health Treatment Plan may be one way to make accessing psychological support more affordable.
A Mental Health Treatment Plan is prepared by your GP, Paediatrician or Psychiatrist following an assessment of your mental health and circumstances. If you are eligible, it can provide access to Medicare rebates for psychology services under the Better Access initiative.
At Amara Wellness & Psychology, we support clients who are accessing psychological care through a Mental Health Treatment Plan.
How Many Sessions Can I Access & How Do I Get a Mental Health Treatment Plan?
How many sessions can I access?
Under the Medicare Better Access initiative, eligible patients can claim a Medicare benefit for up to:
- 10 individual mental health treatment services per calendar year
- 10 group therapy mental health treatment services per calendar year
The 10 individual sessions are generally accessed in two stages:
Initial course of treatment
Your GP, Paediatrician or Psychiatrist can refer you for up to 6 individual sessions as part of your initial course of treatment.
Subsequent course of treatment
After your initial sessions, your Mental Health Treatment Plan can be reviewed by your GP, Paediatrician or Psychiatrist. If further psychological treatment is considered appropriate, you may be referred for additional sessions, up to the remaining annual limit of 10 individual sessions.
For example, if you use all 6 sessions from your initial referral, you may then be able to access up to another 4 sessions following a review and new referral.
This means the maximum Medicare-rebatable individual psychology services available under Better Access is 10 sessions per calendar year.
Your GP, Paediatrician or Psychiatrist will determine the number of sessions included in each referral based on your individual circumstances and treatment needs.
How do I get a Mental Health Treatment Plan?
The first step is to make an appointment with your GP, Paediatrician or Psychiatrist.
During your appointment, they may ask about:
- How you've been feeling
- Changes you've noticed in your mood or behaviour
- Stress or challenges you're currently experiencing
- How your mental health is affecting your everyday life
- What support you feel you need
- Your goals for psychological treatment
They will then assess your circumstances and determine whether a Mental Health Treatment Plan is appropriate.
It's important to be open and honest with them about how you're feeling. This gives them a clearer understanding of what you're experiencing and helps them determine what type of support may be most appropriate.
What can a Mental Health Treatment Plan help with?
Psychological support can be helpful for a wide range of concerns and experiences, including:
- Anxiety and excessive worry
- Stress and feeling overwhelmed
- Depression and low mood
- Grief and loss
- Relationship difficulties
- Life changes and transitions
- Work and workplace concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Emotional regulation
- And more
Your psychologist will work with you to understand what is happening in your life and develop strategies that are relevant to your individual needs and goals.
Ready to take the next step?
Thinking about seeing a psychologist? Speak with your GP, Paediatrician or Psychiatrist about whether a Mental Health Care Plan may be suitable for you.
Already have a plan or referral? Our team can help with your next steps. If you’re unsure about your eligibility, Medicare rebate or referral, get in touch.