How to get Medicare rebates for psychology services in Fitzroy and Brunswick East, VIC

Therapy can be life-changing, but cost can sometimes feel like a barrier. The good news? Medicare provides rebates for mental health services, making therapy more affordable for Australians. If you're in Brunswick and wondering how to access psychology services through Medicare, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

What Is a Medicare Mental Health Care Plan?

A Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHCP) is a referral from your GP, psychiatrist, or paediatrician that allows you to claim Medicare rebates on sessions with a registered psychologist. This means you pay less out of pocket for therapy.

How many sessions are covered?

• Medicare covers up to 10 rebated therapy sessions per calendar year.

• Your GP will initially refer you for six sessions, and if needed, you can return for a review and receive an additional four sessions.

Who is eligible?

You may qualify for a Mental Health Treatment Plan if you’re experiencing:

• Anxiety, stress, or panic attacks

• Depression or low mood

• Relationship difficulties

• Grief or trauma

• ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, or other mental health concerns

Tip: If you’re unsure whether you qualify, speak to your GP about your concerns—they can assess if a treatment plan is right for you.

Step-by-Step: How to claim Medicare Rebates for Therapy

1. Book an Appointment with Your GP

• Ask for a long consultation to discuss your mental health.

• Be open about your symptoms so your GP can determine if a Mental Health Treatment Plan is suitable.

• If eligible, your GP will create the plan and provide a referral letter to a psychologist.

2. Choose a Psychologist who accepts Medicare rebates

• Not all psychologists accept Medicare rebates, so check before booking.

• At Galena Psychology, Medicare rebates are available for eligible clients.

3. Book your first therapy session

• Provide your referral letter to your psychologist.

• Pay for your session, then claim your Medicare rebate (more on this below).
  

4. Claim Your Medicare Rebate

• After your session, I will process the rebate for you.
  

5. Review & access additional sessions

• After your first six sessions, return to your GP for a progress review.

• If needed, your GP can approve an additional four Medicare-rebated sessions.
  

How much will Medicare cover?

Medicare rebates vary, but as of 2025:

• Seeing a registered psychologist offers a rebate of $96.60 per session.

Tip: If you have private health insurance, check if it covers additional psychology services. You can’t claim both Medicare and private health for the same session, but insurance may help cover sessions beyond the 10 Medicare-rebated ones.

Feel free to contact Galena Psychology if you have any other questions.

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