Banner Image

Medicare-Subsidised Psychology Sessions

If you're eligible for Medicare in Australia, you may be able to access up to 10 subsidised psychology sessions per calendar year. Here's how to get started:

How It Works

1. Visit Your GP for a Mental Health Plan

To claim a Medicare rebate for psychology, you'll first need a referral and Mental Health Treatment Plan from a GP. You can book an appointment with your regular doctor or through an online bulk-billed GP service.

2. Book a Psychology Session

Once you have your GP referral, choose a registered psychologist from our directory. You'll pay for the session upfront, and your Medicare rebate will be reimbursed to your bank account after the session.

3. Submit Your Documents

Send a copy of your Mental Health Plan and GP referral to your provider. We'll take care of the Medicare claiming process for you — no paperwork required on your end.

4. Receive Your Medicare Rebate

After your session, we process your Medicare claim and the rebate is paid directly to your bank account. No extra action needed.

Medicare Rebate Amounts

$98.95

per session with a general psychologist

$145.25

per session with a clinical psychologist

Cost Breakdown

Service Type Session Duration Medicare Rebate (2024) Average Fee Average out-of-pocket
Clinical Psychology 50 minutes $145.25 $311 $169.15
General Psychology 50 minutes $98.95 $250 $153.35
Counsellor 50 minutes N/A $130 $130
Psychotherapist 50 minutes N/A $130 $130

Important Information

Mental Health Treatment Plan

A GP referral with a Mental Health Treatment Plan is required for medicare psychology rebates.

Annual Limit

Up to 10 psychology sessions per calendar year.

Bulk Billing

Some practitioners offer bulk billing, meaning no out-of-pocket costs.

Counsellors and Psychotherapists

Medicare rebates are not available for non-AHPRA registered counsellors or psychotherapists.

Frequently Asked Questions

A valid Medicare card, a Mental Health Treatment Plan, and a GP referral before your first session.

Yes. You can use an online GP services. Get more information here: Online GP Referrals Digital Mental Health Care Plans

Yes, but the Medicare rebate is deposited into your account after your appointment and should appear wihtin your bank within 2-3 business days.

Up to 10 sessions per calendar year (6 initially, plus 4 after a GP review).

Most commonly, yes — once you have completed your appointment, your medicare referral will be processed and the rebate will be deposited into your bank account.