Many people seeking psychological treatment are eligible for a Mental Health Care Plan.

Medicare rebates are available for individual clients with a written referral and a Mental Health Care Plan developed by a GP. A referral may also be gained from a psychiatrist.

The current rebate from Medicare for up to 10 individual psychology therapy sessions per calendar year with a Mental Health Care Plan in place is $131.65. The GP referral and Mental Health Care Plan or a referral from a psychiatrist needs to be brought to the initial appointment.

Following payment of the consultation fee, Medicare rebates can generally be processed for clients on the day using a HICAPS terminal on site. Otherwise, a receipt for payment can be provided to the client to take to a Medicare office.

For those who do not have a Mental Health Care Plan from a GP, a rebate of part of the fee may be available to those who have ‘Extras’ cover with private health insurance providers. Claims can be made by taking a receipt of payment to your private health insurer.

Private health insurance rebates may apply but cannot be used in conjunction with Medicare rebates.