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Health
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Find Help
Understand Costs
Crisis Support
Health
Maps
BETA
Find Help
Understand Costs
Crisis Support
Mental health support shouldn't be
this confusing
We're building a clear, honest guide to Australia's mental health system. No marketing fluff, just practical help when you need it most.
Currently in development
I'm feeling anxious
Racing thoughts, worry, panic attacks, or constant stress
I'm feeling depressed
Low mood, hopelessness, loss of interest, or emptiness
I'm overwhelmed
Everything feels too much, can't cope, or burnout
I'm helping someone
Supporting a family member, friend, or colleague
Who does what? A honest comparison
Understanding the differences between mental health professionals can be confusing. Here's the reality.
Clinical Psychologist
6+ years university training
Evidence-based therapies (CBT, DBT, ACT)
Complex mental health conditions
Psychological assessments & testing
Typical Costs
Medicare rebate: $145.25
Typical gap: $50-150
Total: $195-295 per session
Wait times: Usually 2-8 weeks
Psychologist
4+ years university training
Talk therapy & counselling
Common mental health issues
Stress & relationship support
Typical Costs
Medicare rebate: $98.95
Typical gap: $30-80
Total: $129-179 per session
Wait times: Usually 1-4 weeks
Counsellor
Certificate to Masters level
Relationship & family issues
Life transitions & grief
General emotional support
Typical Costs
No Medicare rebate
May be covered by health insurance
Total: $80-150 per session
Wait times: Often available same week
What will it actually cost me?
No hidden fees, no surprises. Here's the real cost breakdown for mental health care in Australia.
Professional Type
Clinical Psychologist
Health Insurance
No private health insurance
Cost Breakdown
$250
Session Fee
-$145
Medicare Rebate
$105
Your Gap Payment
Money-saving tips
Look for bulk-billing practitioners (no gap fees)
Check if your employer offers EAP counselling (free sessions)
Your pathway to mental health support
Step-by-step guidance through the Australian mental health system, with realistic timeframes.
GP Referral Pathway
1
Book GP appointment
Discuss your mental health concerns openly
⏱ Usually same week
2
Get Mental Health Care Plan
GP creates referral for up to 10 subsidised sessions
⏱ Same appointment or follow-up
3
Find and book psychologist
Choose from GP's recommendations or search online
⏱ 2-8 weeks wait time
4
Attend first session
Assessment and treatment planning
✓ Medicare rebate available
Direct Access Pathway
1
Choose your practitioner
Counsellor, private psychologist, or therapist
⏱ Often available within days
2
Book directly
No referral needed, book online or by phone
⏱ Immediate booking
3
Pay full fee
No Medicare rebate, but may be covered by health insurance
💰 $80-200 per session
4
Start therapy
Begin treatment without waiting for referrals
✓ Faster access to care
Take action today
Ready to start? Here are the most common next steps people take.
Book GP Appointment
Start with your GP to get a Mental Health
Usually available this week
Locate psychologists who bulk-bill (no gap
fees) in your area
No out-of-pocket costs
Search by location
Calculate My Costs
Get realistic cost estimates based on your
location and insurance
Include insurance rebates
Need support right now?
If you're in crisis or having thoughts of suicide, help is available immediately
000
Emergency
Life-threatening situations
13 11 14
Lifeline
24/7 crisis support
1300 224 636
Beyond Blue
Mental health support
1800 551 800
Kids Helpline
Young people 5-25
Health Road
Making Australia's mental health
system clearer, one honest
explanation at a time.
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