Fees and Rebates

REBATES FOR COUNSELLING

Medicare rebates are available for the treatment of a range of mental health problems (for example, depression or anxiety). Your GP or psychiatrist will assess whether or not you are eligible for a referral. They base their decision on a detailed mental health assessment and prepare a Mental Health Treatment Plan as part of making a referral. You will need to book a longer session with your GP to enable time for this.

Medicare rebates are available for up to 10 consultations in a calendar year with a registered psychologist.

Rebates may also be available through private health insurers’ ‘Extras’ schemes. You are not permitted, however, to use Medicare and private health insurance for the same consultation.

IMPORTANT POINTS:

• To receive the Medicare rebate, you need to have a referral from a GP or a psychiatrist.

• If you do have a referral (the Mental Health Treatment Plan), please bring it with you in the first session, as well as your Medicare card.

• The rebate covers 10 counselling session per calendar year and is $84.80. I am able to process the Medicare rebate automatically for you during payment.

• Alternatively, you may have cover  from your private health insurance, or pay the full fee yourself.

• You don’t need a GP referral to make an appointment with a psychologist (but it is a requirement if you want to claim the Medicare rebate).