Yes - Medicare rebates are available for seeing a psychologist under the Better Access to Mental Health Care Initiative. To access a rebate, you will need a written referral, provided by your GP, paediatrician or psychiatrist. Your GP will also need to provide a written Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP)

This allows you to access an initial 6 sessions with a rebate of $129.55 (when seeing a clinical psychologist). If needed, a further 4 sessions are available following a review with your GP.

To access rebates under Medicare, you will need to book an appointment with your GP to request a MHTP. At this appointment, you will be able to discuss your reasons for wanting a referral and complete a few short questionnaires to check your eligibility. Your GP may have a psychologist in mind, but you are able to request a direct referral to the psychologist of your choice.

If you have private health insurance with extra cover, you may be able to claim back part of your session fee. Contact your private health fund to see if you are eligible. Please note you are not able to claim both a Medicare rebate and a rebate from your private health fund simultaneously.