Mental Health Care
Your GP is often the best first step when you are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, grief, or any mental health concern. Family Doctor clinics across Australia offer confidential, non-judgemental mental health consultations, Mental Health Treatment Plans, and referrals to psychologists and psychiatrists under Medicare.
Speak With a GP About Your Mental Health
If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, low, or just not yourself, book a longer appointment with your GP. A standard consultation is 15 minutes; for a mental health discussion you should book a long consult (30 minutes or more) so there is time to talk properly and develop a plan.
All consultations are confidential. What you share with your GP stays between you and the clinician — it is not shared with family members, employers, or insurers without your consent.
What Is a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP)?
A Mental Health Treatment Plan is a Medicare item (MBS 2715 or 2717) that your GP prepares when you are experiencing a mental health condition. It assesses your symptoms, identifies your goals, and gives you access to Medicare-subsidised sessions with a registered psychologist, accredited mental health social worker, or occupational therapist.
Preparing the plan typically takes 30–45 minutes with your GP. Many Family Doctor clinics bulk bill Mental Health Treatment Plans for eligible patients — contact your nearest clinic to confirm.
Up to 10 Medicare-Subsidised Psychology Sessions
Under the Better Access initiative, a Mental Health Treatment Plan gives you access to up to 10 individual psychology sessions per calendar year (six initial, with a possible four additional after a GP review) and up to 10 group therapy sessions. Medicare rebates cover a significant portion of the session fee; some psychologists bulk bill.
Common Concerns We Can Help With
- Anxiety and panic
- Depression and low mood
- Stress, burnout and workplace pressure
- Grief and bereavement
- Relationship and family difficulties
- Sleep problems and insomnia
- Postnatal depression and perinatal mental health
- Eating concerns and body image
- Substance use and problem drinking
- Trauma, PTSD, and the effects of abuse
Confidentiality and Your Medical Records
Everything you tell your GP is confidential and protected by Australian privacy law. Mental health information is only shared with other healthcare providers (such as a psychologist) if you consent to it or if there is a serious risk of harm. Your mental health history does not appear on standard employment, visa, or insurance checks.
Telehealth Mental Health Consultations
If you prefer not to attend in person, many Family Doctor clinics offer telehealth mental health consultations by phone or video. Medicare rebates apply to telehealth mental health services in the same way as in-clinic visits.
Find a Family Doctor Clinic Near You
With over 114 clinics across Australia, there is likely a Family Doctor GP near you who can help. Use our clinic finder to locate your nearest clinic and book a longer appointment for a mental health discussion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral to see a psychologist?
To access Medicare rebates on psychology sessions, yes — you need a Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP first. You can see a psychologist privately without a referral, but you will not receive Medicare rebates.
Are Mental Health Treatment Plans bulk billed?
It depends on the clinic. Many Family Doctor clinics bulk bill Mental Health Treatment Plans for children under 16, concession card holders, and pensioners. Some clinics bulk bill all patients. Contact your nearest clinic or check our bulk billing page to confirm.
How long is a Mental Health Treatment Plan consultation?
You should book a long consultation (at least 30 minutes, sometimes 45). Mental Health Treatment Plans cannot be prepared in a standard 15-minute consultation — there is too much to discuss. Tell reception you need a long appointment for a mental health plan.
Can I see a psychologist by telehealth?
Yes. Medicare rebates apply to psychology sessions delivered by phone or video, the same as in-person sessions. Your GP can make a telehealth referral if you prefer.
What if I need urgent mental health support?
If you are in crisis or at risk, call 000 or go to your nearest hospital emergency department. You can also call Lifeline on 13 11 14, Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636, or the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467 — all available 24/7. For same-day non-urgent GP support, call your nearest Family Doctor clinic to ask about availability.