How to access Medicare psychology rebates in Australia. 

How to See a Psychologist with Medicare - Step-by-step guide to Mental Health Treatment Plans and psychologist referrals in Melbourne.

Accessing psychology services through Medicare in Australia is possible through the **Better Access to Mental Health Care initiative.

This program helps reduce the cost of psychological treatment for individuals experiencing mental health concerns.

Step 1: Visit Your GP

To access Medicare psychology rebates, you need to book an appointment with your GP.

During this appointment, your GP will:

• Discuss your mental health concerns

• Assess whether a Mental Health Treatment Plan is appropriate

• Provide a referral to a psychologist

👉 Tip: Book a longer appointment with your GP to allow time for a Mental Health Treatment Plan.

Step 2: Get a Mental Health Treatment Plan

If you are eligible, your GP will create a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP).

This plan allows you to access Medicare rebates for psychology sessions.

You can usually access:

• A set number of rebated individual psychology sessions per calendar year

• Additional sessions if clinically required and approved

Step 3: Book a Psychologist Appointment

Once you have a referral and Mental Health Treatment Plan, you can book with a psychologist.

At your first session, your psychologist will:

• Review your referral and plan

• Discuss your goals and concerns

• Develop a treatment plan tailored to you

What Conditions Are Covered?

Medicare rebates apply to a range of diagnosed mental health conditions, including:

• Anxiety disorders

• Depression

• PTSD

• OCD

• Panic disorder

• Adjustment disorders

• Sleep-related and stress-related conditions and other conditions

Other Medicare Psychology Pathways

In addition to Mental Health Treatment Plans, some clients may also access psychology through:

• Chronic Disease Management (CDM) plans

• Autism and early intervention pathways (where eligible)

• Specific government-funded mental health initiatives

Do You Need a Diagnosis?

No formal diagnosis is required to see a psychologist.

Your GP will determine whether a Mental Health Treatment Plan is appropriate based on your symptoms and wellbeing needs.

Can You Claim Telehealth Psychology?

Yes. Medicare rebates are available for both:

• In-person psychology sessions

• Telehealth psychology sessions

Need Help Getting Started?

If you are unsure about the process, GROW Clinical Psychology can help guide you through:

• Referral requirements

• Medicare eligibility

• Booking your first appointment

Book an Appointment

If you are looking for a psychologist in Melbourne, we are here to support you through every step of accessing care.

Contact GROW Clinical Psychology to book an appointment or make an enquiry.