Mental Health Treatment Plans and Medicare Rebates in Australia

Routine visits to your GP can enhance both physical and mental health.

Taking the first step towards improving your mental health can feel daunting, but knowing your options makes the process much easier. One of the most accessible ways to start is by using a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP), which allows you to access Medicare rebates for psychology sessions. Let’s break down what an MHTP is, how you can get one, and what kind of financial support it provides.

What is a Mental Health Treatment Plan?

A Mental Health Treatment Plan is a document prepared by your GP that outlines your mental health concerns and the steps to manage them. It’s essentially a roadmap for your mental health journey, ensuring you receive the right care tailored to your needs. A MHTP is available to anyone in Australia experiencing mental health challenges, whether it’s anxiety, depression, stress, or other concerns.

The plan includes:

• A summary of your mental health concerns.

• Referrals to relevant mental health professionals, like a psychologist.

• Goals for your mental health and strategies to achieve them.

  
  

How to Get a Mental Health Treatment Plan

Getting an MHTP is straightforward, here are the steps:

1. Book a Long Appointment with Your GP: Mention that you’re seeking a Mental Health Treatment Plan when booking so your doctor can allocate enough time.

2. Discuss Your Concerns: During the appointment, your GP will ask about your mental health history, current symptoms, and how these affect your daily life. Don’t worry about having all the answers - your GP is there to guide you through this conversation.

3. Receive Your Plan and Referrals: If your GP determines that an MHTP is suitable, they’ll create one for you. They may also provide referrals to psychologists or other mental health professionals. If you know the name of your psychologist, the plan can be made out to them.

   
   

It’s important to know that you don’t need to be in a crisis to seek an MHTP. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or think you might benefit from professional support, you’re entitled to this service.

What Rebates Can You Access?

A MHTP allows you to claim Medicare rebates for up to 10 individual psychology sessions per calendar year. Your GP can only refer 6 at a time, so you will need to have a review to access the remaining 4. In some cases, group therapy sessions may also be covered.

For individual sessions with a registered psychologist, the Medicare rebate is typically $92.90 per session. If your psychologist is endorsed as a clinical psychologist, the rebate increases to $136.35 per session. The exact out-of-pocket cost will depend on your psychologist’s fees, so it’s a good idea to discuss costs upfront. If you have reached your Safety Net threshold then you may be entitled to a higher rebate.

Why Use an MHTP?

Mental health care can feel expensive, and financial concerns shouldn’t prevent you from accessing support. An MHTP reduces the cost barrier, making therapy more accessible. Beyond the financial benefits, having a plan in place means you’re working with professionals who understand your needs and are committed to helping you achieve your goals.

Taking the First Step

Seeking support is a courageous step, and an MHTP can be an excellent starting point. If you’re ready to explore this option, contact your GP and book an appointment to discuss your mental health. Then all you need to do is take your plan to your psychology appointment. You’re not alone on this journey, and help is available.