How much does it cost to see a mental health professional?

How much does it cost to see a mental health professional?

Some mental health professionals have no fees because Medicare covers their bills. Others might charge you a ‘gap’ fee, depending on the amount that Medicare covers. If you have Private Health Insurance, your health insurer might also cover some of the costs (definitely check with your health insurer about this as it could be included in your Extras).

If you’re seeing a mental health professional as part of a mental health care plan put together by your GP, they will have to send a report back to your doctor every few sessions. But don’t worry, your information will go nowhere else without your permission.

REMEMBER, your privacy is very important to all mental health professionals.
If you are unsure about the cost or think you might have difficulty paying for more sessions when your Medicare sessions run out, ask your mental health professional or GP if they can recommend any other options for you.

    • Related Articles

    • What’s it like to see and speak with a mental health professional?

      The first time you visit a mental health professional they should always talk to you about confidentiality, which is your right to privacy, and basically means that anything you chat about with them will remain private between the two of you. Mental ...
    • I've got a mental health care plan, so what happens next?

      A mental health plan outlines what you and your GP (doctor) have agreed is your goal in seeking mental health support and the type of care that will meet your needs. It will probably also include a referral to a psychologist in your local area that ...
    • I’ve spoken to a mental health professional, and it didn’t help. What now?

      An important tip from us in relation to professional support, we urge you to be patient to find the right fit. Please do not be put off or lose motivation if the first person you speak with is not the best fit for you. A lot of people take that first ...
    • Interested in ongoing support?

      If you would prefer to speak with someone on an ongoing basis, we recommend visiting your GP (doctor) who will be able to have a chat with you about what is going on in your life and refer you to a mental health professional if need be. The next part ...
    • I need help now

      LIVIN does not provide crisis intervention or counselling; however, we always want to do our best to help point you in the right direction. Are you having a tough time? Struggling? Need someone to talk to right now?  The following services are there ...