Mental Health Treatment Plans: what they are, and how to get one
Under Medicare, people experiencing mental health issues can access a Mental Health Treatment Plan from their GP, which helps with the cost of therapy or other services.
What is a Mental Health Treatment Plan, and what are the benefits?
A Mental Health Treatment Plan, also known as a mental health care plan, is a plan to manage your mental health. This generally happens through a series of referrals from your GP for mental health services eligible for rebates through Medicare.
This type of plan allows you to build up a relationship with a mental health services provider over time, and to work through the issues or conditions you may be living with, without the burden of high treatment costs.
Mental health conditions, in particular depression and anxiety, affect up to 1 in 5 Australians every year. Accessing a Mental Health Treatment PlanMental Health Treatment Plan can help you to manage these and other concerns and improve your quality of life.
What is a person entitled to under a Mental Health Treatment Plan?
Currently, a Mental Health Treatment Plan allows you to claim up to 20 sessions a year with an eligible mental health professional.
If you see a mental health professional who bulk bills, Medicare will cover the entire cost. Otherwise, you may need to pay a ‘gap’, which is the difference between the amount Medicare covers and the amount the service provider charges. If you have private health insurance, this can also cover part of the cost.
Mental Health Treatment Plans cover both in-person and telehealth services, so if you are in a remote area or just prefer to do your sessions over the phone or video call, these should still be covered under your plan.
How to get a Mental Health Treatment Plan
If you’re feeling like you might need some support with your mental health, the first step is to see your GP. They will go through a mental health assessment with you and may create a treatment plan for you. Then, if they feel it is appropriate, they will refer you for an initial six sessions with a mental health professional.
These mental health professionals can include:
- Psychiatrists
- Psychologists
- Social workers
- Occupational therapists
If, after the six sessions, you feel you need more, talk to your GP again and they can write you another referral.
Reach out for support
As the largest private provider of mental health care in Australia, we are dedicated to making a real difference in the lives of those we treat, accepting mental health treatment plans at all our psychology clinics.
We offer a range of services designed to support people experiencing mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and a range of other conditions.
We encourage you to reach out to our expert team who can assist you in creating a plan to help get your mental health back on track.