Once you decide to seek mental health support, a general practitioner (GP) is typically the first point of contact. You can book an appointment online, or find a local clinic near you to discuss your concerns in person.
During your consultation, the Doctor will assess your mental health by discussing your symptoms, medical history, and any challenges you are facing. Based on the assessment, they may develop a personalised mental health treatment plan (MHTP); if you’re not sure what that is, check out our FAQ ‘what is a mental health care plan’ here.
Caring for someone living with a mental health condition often involves various supports, including specialists. With that in mind, your doctor may provide you a referral as part of your plan – commonly to psychologists, psychiatrists, and counsellors. Each can play a unique role in mental health treatment, with distinct qualifications and areas of expertise, so understanding the role of each of these professions is the first step to finding the right mental health support.
What is a Psychologists role in mental health treatment?
Psychologists focus on the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health and emotional issues. They use evidence-based therapies, techniques, and treatment plans to help individuals manage and overcome their mental health challenges. Psychologists often provide therapy and counselling for various conditions, such as anxiety, depression, and trauma, and relationship issues.
- Qualifications: Psychologists in Australia typically hold a bachelor’s degree in psychology followed by postgraduate studies, such as a Master’s or Doctoral degree in psychology. They must also complete supervised practice and meet registration requirements set by the Psychology Board of Australia.
- Treatment Approach: Psychologists use a variety of therapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), psychoanalytic therapy, and mindfulness-based therapies. They may work in various settings, including private practice, hospitals, schools, and community health centres.
What is a Psychiatrists role in mental health treatment?
Psychiatrists are specialist doctors and have extensive training to diagnose and treat mental health conditions. They have the knowledge and skills to prescribe medication and deliver psychotherapy, offering a comprehensive range of treatments tailored to individual needs. p
- Qualifications: Psychiatrists are medical doctors who have completed medical school and then specialised in psychiatry. They hold a Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) or equivalent degree and have completed further specialist training in psychiatry.
- Treatment Approach: Psychiatrists can provide a comprehensive assessment of mental health, including physical health factors. They may use medication, therapy, or a combination of treatments to address a person’s mental health needs. They may also work in hospitals, clinics, and private practice.
What is a Counsellors role in mental health treatment?
Counsellors provide emotional support, guidance, and counselling to individuals facing various life challenges, including relationship problems, grief, stress, and personal development. In their role, counsellors facilitate a journey of self-exploration for their clients, helping them delve into their feelings, thoughts, and behaviours. Through this process, they assist clients in developing effective coping strategies.
- Qualifications: Counsellors in Australia can have a diverse range of qualifications, and there is no specific regulatory body governing the profession. A trained counsellor usually has spent 3+ years studying a bachelor’s or master’s degree in psychology, counselling, or related fields, while others may have an equivalent level of training in another accredited higher education institution.
- Treatment Approach: Counsellors typically use talk therapy and counselling techniques to assist clients in addressing specific issues and improving their well-being. They often work in private practice, schools, community organisations, and employee assistance programs.
Chatting with your doctor can help you make an informed decision about the most appropriate mental health professional for your situation. It’s important that you feel actively involved in choosing your mental health care team. Your choice may depend on whether you prefer medication or therapy, or both, your comfort level with the therapist’s approach and qualifications, or just personal preference. It’s your choice.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get a Mental Health Treatment Plan?
Book an appointment with one of our mental health trained Doctors by clicking ‘Get Started’ (and select ‘Mental Health’ from the list if necessary) or find a local clinic near you to discuss your concerns in person. During your consultation, the Doctor will assess your mental health by discussing your symptoms, medical history, and any challenges you are facing. If the Doctor believes that a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP) would assist you, they will work with you to create a MHTP for your treatment needs. It will outline your diagnosis, treatment goals, recommended interventions, and the number of sessions you are eligible for under Medicare.
Who is eligible for a Mental Health Treatment Plan?
A qualified healthcare provider, such as a GP, must assess your eligibility for a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP). This assessment includes evaluating your mental health condition, treatment needs, and goals. You will need a valid Medicare card to be assessed for a MHTP, and to receive a MHTP that is eligible for rebates.
If you don’t have a Medicare card, you will not be eligible for a rebated assessment or a Medicare subsidised MHTP.
If you are eligible for Medicare but do not have a Medicare card, you can apply for one through the Department of Human Services. Eligibility criteria for Medicare include being an Australian citizen, a permanent resident, or a New Zealand citizen living in Australia. Once you have a Medicare card, you can proceed with requesting a MHTP.
While a Medicare card is typically the primary means of accessing government-funded mental health services in Australia, it’s important to consider other avenues to receive the support and care you may need.
You can book a private fee appointment and speak with one of our mental health trained Doctors about your mental health concerns at any time. They can still consult with you about a general plan for your safety and wellbeing, that doesn’t include rebated sessions.
If ongoing costs are an issue, they may be able to guide you on low-cost or free mental health services provided by community organisations, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), or public mental health clinics.
If you’re in crisis or feeling unsafe, please call 000 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.
What does Medicare cover for mental health?
A mental health treatment plan lets you claim up to 10 individual and 10 group sessions with a mental health professional each calendar year.
To start with, your doctor will refer you for up to 6 sessions at a time. If you need more, they can refer you for further sessions at your follow up appointment.
Health professionals set their own fees, so Medicare may only cover some of the cost. When you make your appointment, remember to ask how much you’ll pay and how much of the cost Medicare will cover.
If you have private health insurance, you may be able to make a claim for the cost of your appointment. Check with your insurer.
You can book an assessment for a Mental Health Treatment Plan online. Rebates apply for Medicare card holders.