Mental Heath Care Plan| Create Change Counselling Perth
If you’re considering counselling, you may be wondering whether you can use a Mental Health Care Plan and receive a Medicare rebate. The process can feel unclear, especially if this is your first time seeking support.
Many people delay reaching out because they’re unsure how referrals work, whether they’re eligible, or what the out-of-pocket cost might be. These are practical and important questions — and having clear information can make the decision feel less overwhelming.
A Mental Health Care Plan is one pathway that may reduce the cost of therapy at Create Change Counselling. Below, you’ll find an overview of how it works, what it covers, and what steps are involved so you can make an informed choice about your care.
What Is a Mental Health Care Plan?
A Mental Health Care Plan is a referral created by a GP that allows eligible individuals to access Medicare rebates for psychological therapy services.
During a longer appointment, your GP will assess your mental health concerns and determine whether a Mental Health Care Plan is appropriate. If so, they will prepare a plan and provide a referral to a registered mental health professional.
Under Medicare, a set number of rebated sessions may be available each calendar year. The rebate reduces the overall cost of therapy, though it does not usually cover the full session fee.
A Mental Health Care Plan is commonly used for concerns such as:
- Anxiety disorders
- Depression
- Stress and adjustment difficulties
- Trauma-related symptoms
If you’re unsure whether your situation qualifies, your GP can discuss this with you and guide you through the assessment process.
Can I Use a Mental Health Care Plan for Counselling?
Yes. As an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, I am registered to provide Medicare-rebated counselling services under a valid Mental Health Care Plan.
If your GP prepares a Mental Health Care Plan and referral, you may be eligible to receive Medicare rebates for a set number of sessions each calendar year.
With a Mental Health Care Plan:
- You pay the full session fee at the time of your appointment
- The Medicare rebate is processed after payment
- A current GP referral is required prior to your first rebated session
The rebate reduces the overall cost of therapy, though there is usually an out-of-pocket gap between the session fee and the Medicare rebate amount.
If you’re unsure whether a Mental Health Care Plan is right for you, you’re welcome to get in touch before booking. Having clarity about the process can make starting counselling feel more manageable.
Medicare Rebates & Non-Directive Pregnancy Counselling
As an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, I provide Medicare-rebated counselling under a valid Mental Health Care Plan.
In addition, I am qualified to provide Non-Directive Pregnancy Counselling, which is separately rebated by Medicare.
Non-Directive Pregnancy Counselling provides up to three Medicare-rebated sessions per pregnancy and can support individuals who are:
- Considering their options in relation to a pregnancy
- Adjusting to an unexpected pregnancy
- Experiencing pregnancy-related distress
- Processing the emotional impact of pregnancy loss and fertility issues
These sessions are non-judgemental, confidential and focused on supporting you to make informed decisions that align with your values and circumstances.
A GP referral is required to access Medicare rebates for these sessions.
If you’re unsure which Medicare pathway applies to your situation, you’re welcome to make contact to discuss your options before booking.
How Much Is the Medicare Rebate?
If you are accessing counselling under a valid Mental Health Care Plan, Medicare provides a rebate for each eligible session.
Current Medicare rebate for Accredited Mental Health Social Workers:
$87.24 per 50 min session
Medicare allows up to 10 rebated sessions per calendar year under a Mental Health Care Plan (subject to GP review requirements).
For Non-Directive Pregnancy Counselling:
Current Medicare rebate:
$77 per 30 min session
Up to three rebated sessions are available per pregnancy with a valid GP referral.
What Does This Mean for You?
If your session fee is $120 (correct at time of writing), your out-of-pocket cost after the Medicare rebate would be approximately $32.76
How to Get a Mental Health Care Plan
If you would like to access Medicare rebates for counselling, the first step is to book a longer appointment with your GP.
Step 1: Book a GP Appointment
When making your appointment, you can ask for a “long consultation to discuss a Mental Health Care Plan.” This gives your GP enough time to complete the assessment properly.
Step 2: Discuss Your Mental Health Concerns
During the appointment, your GP will ask about your current symptoms, stressors and history. They may use a brief questionnaire to assess anxiety, depression or related concerns.
If appropriate, your GP will prepare a Mental Health Care Plan and provide a referral to a registered mental health professional.
Step 3: Obtain a Referral
To receive Medicare rebates, you must have:
- A valid Mental Health Care Plan
- A current referral addressed to an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker
You can request that your GP address the referral directly to me, or leave it open (e.g., “To an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker”).
Step 4: Book Your Counselling Session
Once you have your referral, you can book your first appointment. The Medicare rebate will apply from the date of your referral onward.
If you are unsure whether you need a Mental Health Care Plan before booking, you are welcome to make contact to discuss your options.
Taking the Next Step
Understanding how Medicare rebates work can make starting counselling feel more straightforward.
If you’re considering support for anxiety, trauma, burnout or a significant life transition, you can learn more about counselling services in Perth here.
If you have questions about Mental Health Care Plans, eligibility or fees, you’re welcome to get in touch before booking. Clear information helps you make the right decision for your circumstances.