Medicare rebates may be available for eligible psychological services under the Australian Government's Better Access initiative.

To access a Medicare rebate, you generally need an appropriate referral from a medical practitioner and a mental health treatment plan or other eligible referral arrangement. Your eligibility and the number of sessions available will depend on your individual circumstances.

How many sessions can I claim?

Eligible clients can receive Medicare rebates for up to 10 individual psychological therapy sessions per calendar year (1 January to 31 December) under the Better Access initiative.

A referral can initially cover up to 6 sessions. Your referring medical practitioner can then review your progress and, where appropriate, provide a further referral for additional sessions, up to the annual maximum of 10 sessions.

What mental health conditions can be treated under Better Access?

Better Access provides Medicare benefits for eligible people who have been assessed as having a clinically diagnosed mental disorder requiring at least a moderate level of support.

Examples of mental health conditions that may be treated under Better Access include:

• Alcohol use disorder

• Adjustment disorder

• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

• Bipolar disorder

• Depression

• Anxiety disorders

• Dissociative disorders

• Drug use disorders

• Eating disorders

• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

• Panic disorder

• Phobic disorders

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

• Psychotic disorders

• Schizophrenia

• Sleep disorders

• Other clinically diagnosed mental disorders

Eligibility for Medicare benefits depends on your individual circumstances and the relevant Better Access requirements.

Can I choose my psychologist?

You can request to see a particular psychologist. Your psychologist must be registered with Medicare and have a Medicare Provider Number for you to claim a Medicare rebate.

Medicare rebates are subject to eligibility requirements and the applicable Medicare rules. For the most current information, please refer to Services Australia – Better Access initiative.