10/10/2025
FAQ FRIDAYS đ
Each Friday, weâll be answering your most frequently asked questions about therapy, psychology, and the systems that support it - because understanding the process is a powerful first step in feeling more confident accessing help.
So, whatâs the difference between a Mental Health Care Plan and a referral?
đ§ A Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) is created by your GP to outline your mental health needs and supports. It includes relevant background (like symptoms of anxiety, depression, or trauma) and unlocks access to Medicare rebates for up to 10 sessions per calendar year. MHCPs donât expire and only need to be updated if your core mental health concerns change.
đ A referral is the letter your GP writes to your Psychologist. This is the document we do need in order to process your Medicare rebate. Itâs valid for 12 months and covers the first 6 sessions. After this, your Psychologist sends a brief progress update to your GP, and youâll need a review appointment with your GP to access another 6 sessions. This process continues every 6 sessions throughout your therapeutic journey.
If you use all 10 Medicare-rebated sessions before the end of the year, private health rebates may help cover additional sessions.
đĄ You do not need a MHCP or referral to access a Psychologist. These documents are only required if youâd like to claim the Medicare rebate â¤ď¸
⨠We know this can feel confusing - so if this helped clarify things, feel free to hit share and send to someone who might benefit! Or drop your next question below đđź Weâll be here every Friday to break it all down đ¤
