How to Use Medicare for Psychology Sessions

If cost is one of the things holding you back from seeing a psychologist, Medicare can help. Here's how it works, step by step.

Step 1: See your GP

Book a longer appointment with your GP and let them know you'd like to talk about your mental health. If they agree it would help, they'll prepare a Mental Health Treatment Plan and write you a referral. You can ask them to refer you to a specific psychologist.

Step 2: Book your first session

Once you have your referral, book online and bring the referral to your first session, or email it through beforehand. Telehealth sessions are covered in the same way as in-person sessions.

Step 3: Claim your rebate

You pay the session fee on the day, and the Medicare rebate is paid back to your bank account, usually within a few days. The rebate amount is set by Medicare and updated each July, and the difference between the fee and the rebate is your out-of-pocket cost.

How many sessions are covered?

Under the Better Access program you can claim a rebate for up to 10 individual sessions each calendar year. After your first few sessions, your GP will review how things are going before referring you for the rest.

Can I use private health insurance instead?

Some private health funds cover psychology under extras. You can't claim Medicare and private health for the same session, so it's worth checking with your fund which works out better for you.

If you have questions about fees or rebates, get in touch and I'm happy to talk it through.