Medicare guide
Medicare rebates for psychology on the Gold Coast
Seeing a psychologist can cost much less than you expect. This guide explains how Medicare rebates work, what you need from your GP, and what you'll pay at our Mermaid Beach practice.
What is the Better Access initiative?
Better Access to Mental Health Care is the Medicare program that helps Australians pay for sessions with a psychologist. With a valid referral, eligible clients receive a rebate on up to ten individual sessions each calendar year.
What it costs at MindTree
Session fee
$275
Medicare rebate
$149.05
You pay
$125.95
Per individual session with a Mental Health Treatment Plan. See all fees and rebates.
How to claim, step by step
- 1
Book a longer GP appointment
Ask your GP for a Mental Health Treatment Plan. They will talk with you about how you've been feeling and, if eligible, write the plan and a referral to a psychologist.
- 2
Contact MindTree
Call or send an enquiry. Our reception team will match you with a psychologist who suits your needs and has availability.
- 3
Attend your first session
Bring your referral, Medicare card and an EFTPOS card. We claim electronically, so your rebate is processed on the spot.
- 4
Review with your GP
Your first referral covers up to six sessions. After the sixth we send your GP a progress report, and they may refer you for up to four more in the calendar year.
Other ways to reduce the cost
- Private health: if your extras cover includes psychology, we claim on the spot via HICAPS.
- Chronic Disease Management: a GP Management Plan can provide rebates for up to five allied health sessions a year.
- DVA: eligible veterans may have sessions covered by the Department of Veterans' Affairs.
Common questions
How many Medicare-rebated sessions can I have?
Up to ten individual sessions per calendar year under the Better Access initiative, provided in blocks of up to six, then up to four more after a GP review.
Do I need a referral to see a psychologist?
Only if you want to claim Medicare. You can self-refer and pay the full fee, and you may still be able to claim through your private health fund.
Is MindTree bulk billed?
No. We are a mixed-billing practice. With the Medicare rebate of $149.05, the out-of-pocket cost of a standard $275 session is $125.95.
Can I claim Medicare and private health for the same session?
No. You can use one or the other for a session, not both.
Does Medicare cover telehealth?
Yes, eligible clients can claim the Medicare rebate for telehealth sessions with our psychologists, the same as in person.
Can a psychiatrist or paediatrician refer me?
Yes. Referrals from a psychiatrist or paediatrician are also eligible for the Medicare rebate without a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan.
Medicare rules can change. Your GP or Services Australia can confirm your eligibility.
Have your referral? Let's get you booked in.
Our reception team can answer Medicare questions and find a psychologist who suits you.