Medicare, Mental Health Treatment Plans (MHTPs) and Other Insurance/Schemes

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Note: This information is relevant for adults and children.

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You do not need a referral to see a psychologist. However, if you’re experiencing challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, or other mental health concerns, you may be able to access Medicare-subsidised psychological support through a Mental Health Treatment Plan (sometimes called a Mental Health Care Plan).

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What is a Mental Health Treatment Plan?

A Mental Health Treatment Plan is created with your GP, psychiatrist or paediatrician (or another medical practitioner) to support your mental health care. It outlines your goals, treatment options, referrals and follow-up arrangements to help guide your care.

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With a valid plan and referral, you can access Medicare rebates under the Better Access initiative for psychological therapy sessions.

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How to Determine Eligibility for a Mental Health Treatment Plan

1. If you would like to explore your eligibility for a MHTP book a long appointment with your GP and let them know you want to discuss your mental health.

2. Your GP will assess your needs and, if appropriate, prepare a Mental Health Treatment Plan.

3. You’ll receive a referral to a psychologist or other eligible mental health professional.

4. You can choose your preferred provider and book your first appointment.
    

What does it Give you Access to?

With a Mental Health Treatment Plan, Medicare rebates are available for

• up to 10 individual therapy sessions per calendar year

• up to 10 group therapy sessions per calendar year

Sessions can occur in-person or via telehealth (video or phone calls). At CMB Psychology most of our sessions are conducted with telehealth video calling.

 

Typically:

• Your GP refers you for an initial course of up to 6 sessions (although your GP may determine fewer sessions are required)

• Your psychologist will write to your GP following the course of treatment to summarise how sessions are progressing

• You return to your GP who will determine whether a re-referral for further sessions is appropriate
   

Medicare provides a rebate toward session costs. At CMB Psychology, after full payment of session fees at the time of appointment, your Medicare rebate will be processed and Medicare will deposit the funds into your nominated bank account.

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What does Having a Plan Mean?

Having a plan means:

• You have structured support for your mental health care

• You can access subsidised sessions with eligible professionals

• Your GP stays involved to review progress and coordinate care

• Your information remains private and confidential
   

Not Sure if you’re Eligible?

The best first step is to speak with your GP. They can assess your needs and discuss whether a Mental Health Treatment Plan is right for you.

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Private Health Insurance

Where services fall outside Medicare provisions, fees are charged privately. You may be eligible for a rebate under your Private Health Insurance; it is recommended that you check with your fund to determine personal coverage. Note that any rebate from your Private Health fund cannot be used in addition to a Medicare rebate.

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Other Schemes

CMB Psychology does not currently provide services under NDIS, WorkCover, or Employee Assistance Programs.

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Last Updated 03/04/2026