Available: Medicare subsidised mental health treatment items, CAREinMIND Mental Health Services, Private Health Insurance Rebates

Our organisation provides psychological treatment to eligible people for individual counselling under the Australian Government's Better Access to Mental Health Care Initiative. A GP referral to our organisation is required in order to receive this service which relates to a mental health related concern. 

Onsite Medicare Rebates and Bulk Billing

For your convenience, Medicare rebates and bulk billing can be given onsite, providing you attend your session with a current Medicare Card and an eftpos card (cheque or savings account) for the rebate to go into. If unable to provide, Medicare claims can be submitted online:

https://www.humanservices.gov.au/individuals/online-help/medicare/submit-medicare-claim-using-your-online-account

What mental health problems can be treated under the Better Access Initiative?

'Mental disorder' is a term used to describe a range of clinically diagnosable disorders that considerably impact on an individual's emotions, thoughts, decision-making and social skills. The Better Access Initiative covers individuals with mental disorders arising from: Depression; Anxiety disorders; Alcohol use disorders; Schizophrenia; Psychotic disorders; Drug use disorder; Adjustment disorder; Obsessive compulsive disorder; Attention deficit disorder; Bereavement disorder; Eating disorders; Bipolar disorder; Co-occurring anxiety and depression; Panic disorder; Post-traumatic stress disorder; Phobic disorder; Sexual disorders; Sleep problems.

How do I get a GP Mental Health Care Plan?

Your GP will assess your mental health and work out what type of treatment you may need. Once agreed, your GP will write out a Mental Health Care Plan. Preparing a plan may take more than one visit so it is wise to initially book a longer session with your GP to enable time for this.

Can I go directly to a psychologist to receive treatment through Medicare?

No. You must be referred by your GP, your Psychiatrist or Paediatrician. The completed Mental Health Care Plan must be made out to our organisation. 

Can I go directly to a psychologist to receive treatment?

Yes. I referral is only required if you wish to receive a Medicare rebate via a Mental Health Care Plan. 

How many sessions with a psychologist am I entitled to under a Mental Health Care Plan?

Eligible individuals can receive up to 10 individual sessions in a calendar year (1 January - 31 December). Your referring GP will assess your progress after the first six sessions. Referrals (that is, date on plan) are valid for one year.

How much will it cost and how do I pay?

A fee for this service will be assessed on your initial inquiry.

Once full payment has been made at appointment, the client will be able to receive a Medicare rebate via the HICAPS facility on-site. As of 1 July 2023, the Medicare rebate is $92.90. You do not have to go to Medicare to receive your rebate. However, you will need a current Medicare card to receive this service.  

Sessions are for 50 minutes.

Bulk Billing:

Bulk Billing is available to

• individuals referred under our significant partnerships with Merri-bek maternal and child health services and Youth Services; and
• the unemployed. 

Conditions of Eligibility:

Under our partnership with Merri-bek maternal & child health services and Youth Services, individuals referred by their GP under the Medicare Mental Health Care Plan will be BULK BILLED.

Individuals whom present with a Mental Health Care Plan, whom are unemployed, will be BULK BILLED.

Also, if you are unemployed, you can also see our psychologists under CAREinMIND Targeted Psychological Services. You will need a GP referral to access this pathway where you will have access to 12 free sessions.

If you require any further information and/or wish to make an appointment, phone our office on 9354 8854. Any questions or concerns regarding your eligibility to be on a GP Mental Health Care Plan should be directed to your GP.

Can I receive a rebate from my Private Health Insurance?

If you do not have a Mental Health Care Plan referral, but you do have extra's (psychology) private health insurance, you will be able to receive a rebate from your private health insurer. 

Please check with your insurance provider for applicable rates.

Locations:

Coburg, Brunswick West, Glenroy, Springvale, Pascoe Vale

To learn more, download the APS Fact Sheet

RelateWell is a Commonwealth service provider of mental health contracted services.