Do I Need a GP Referral to See a Psychologist?

Many people are unsure whether they need a referral before seeing a psychologist. The good news is that, in most cases, you do not need a referral to make an appointment with a psychologist.

If you would like to access psychology services as a private-paying client, you can contact a psychologist directly and book an appointment yourself. This allows you to get started without needing to visit your GP first.

However, the process is slightly different if you would like to claim a Medicare rebate for your psychology sessions.

When Do I Need a Referral?

To access Medicare rebates for psychology services, you will generally need a Mental Health Treatment Plan and referral from your GP. In some circumstances, referrals can also be provided by a psychiatrist or paediatrician.

A Mental Health Treatment Plan allows eligible individuals to receive Medicare rebates for a specified number of psychology sessions. Without the appropriate referral documentation, Medicare rebates cannot be claimed.

What Is a Mental Health Treatment Plan?

A Mental Health Treatment Plan is prepared by your GP following an appointment where you discuss your mental health concerns and current circumstances.

During this appointment, your GP may ask about your symptoms, how they are affecting your daily life, and whether psychology support may be beneficial. If appropriate, your GP can then provide a referral to a psychologist.

Once the referral is in place, you can book an appointment with your chosen psychologist and claim eligible Medicare rebates for your sessions.

Which Option Is Right for Me?

Some clients choose to access psychology services privately because they would like to begin therapy as soon as possible or prefer not to use Medicare. Others choose to obtain a referral in order to access Medicare rebates and reduce the out-of-pocket cost of treatment.

Both options are available, and the best choice will depend on your individual circumstances.

If you’re unsure whether you need a referral, have questions about Medicare rebates, or would like help understanding the referral process, please contact our team. We’re happy to guide you through the next steps and help you access the support you need.