FAQ

How much does Medicare rebate for Psychological Services?

1. $98.95 per session if you see a Generalist Psychologist

Please note that to obtain Medicare rebates you will need to first visit a GP to obtain a Mental Health Care Plan as well as a letter of referral. You can obtain 6 rebated sessions on your first referral and another 4 rebated sessions on your second referral (called a ‘Review’).

Can I still see a Psychologist without a referral?

Yes. You are welcome to attend Mindful Wellbeing Psychology anytime without a referral. Referrals are only required if you wish to claim Medicare rebates.  

How do I obtain a Mental Health Care Plan?

Mental Health Care Plans can be completed by General Practitioners, Psychiatrists or Paediatricians. In order to obtain a MHCP you need to first visit your General Practitioner (GP) and explain your mental health concerns. It is recommended that you book a longer consultation with your GP so that they have adequate time to develop a care plan with you. Your GP will give you a document called a “Mental Health Care Plan” and a letter of referral which will entitle you to Medicare Rebates. You will then need to provide these documents to Mindful Wellbeing Psychology either at your first session or via email prior to your appointment.

How can I pay for my sessions?

The full fee is to be paid at the end of each session. You may use cash or EFTPOS so you can use your savings, cheque or credit accounts. If you are claiming health fund rebates we will issue you an invoice in order to claim your rebate.

Can you process my Medicare Rebate for me?

Yes we can process your Medicare rebate straight back into your account. For instance, if you pay $170 at the end of your session and you are eligible for Medicare rebates, we can process the claim to Medicare, as long as we have all the required information. Medicare will then reimburse the $98.95 Medicare rebate back into your nominated account. Alternatively, you are welcome to take your invoices down to your nearest Medicare office and lodge them over the counter.

How can I find out if my GP has submitted a Mental Health Plan to Medicare before my first session of Psychological Services?

GP practices often submit the Mental Health Care plan details to Medicare at the time of your consultation. However, in some clinics this process is still done manually and can take a few days to be submitted and processed by Medicare. If you are unclear whether a Mental Health Care Plan item number has been submitted to Medicare you can contact your GP, or ring Medicare on 132 011.

How many sessions of Counselling can I get under a  Mental Health Care plan?

Currently the number of psychological counselling sessions available following the completion of a Mental Health Care Plan and letter by a GP is 10 sessions per calendar year. You may be able to get an initial referral from your GP for 6 sessions of counselling. Following this your GP may approve additional counselling sessions up to a maximum of 10 sessions per year.