Fees and Rebates

In order to be eligible for services under the Better Access to Mental Health Initiative for which a Medicare rebate is available, you must have a referral from your GP, who has developed a Mental Health Treatment Plan with you. Part of this treatment plan must involve the provision of counselling services (Focused Psychological Services) by an Allied Health Professional (such as a qualified and accredited Mental Health Social Worker).

Under this program you are entitled to a Medicare rebate for your counselling sessions which reduces the fee significantly. The current arrangement with Medicare only provide a limit of 6 sessions. It is possible to request that your GP approve a further 4 sessions. Therefore the total number of sessions available through the Medicare program is 10. This is important for you to consider in terms of your overall access to counselling. If you believe that you may need further sessions you will be required to pay for these independently.