20/05/2025
Why Seeing a Counsellor Might Be Better Than You Think — Even Without Medicare
In Australia, there's a widespread belief that if a mental health professional isn’t covered by Medicare, then they must be unaffordable—or somehow less qualified. As a registered counsellor with over 21 years of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how this misconception prevents people from accessing the help they truly need.
Let’s talk honestly about what Medicare covers, what it doesn’t, and why seeing a counsellor—yes, even without a Medicare rebate—can often be a smarter, more compassionate choice for your mental wellbeing.
What Does Medicare Actually Cover?
Under the Better Access to Mental Health Care initiative, Medicare provides rebates for mental health services delivered by:
Clinical and registered psychologists
Some social workers and occupational therapists
Up to 10 sessions per year, with a GP referral and Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP)
The rebate is approximately $93.35 per session
Sounds good, right?
Well, here’s the catch.
The Hidden Costs of “Medicare-Covered” Mental Health Care
Most psychologists charge between $200–$300 per session. So even with the Medicare rebate:
You still pay $100–$200 out-of-pocket per session
You’re limited to only 6–10 sessions per year
Some psychologists have long waitlists or limited availability
So Where Do Counsellors Fit In?
Counsellors—like myself—are trained mental health professionals, often with decades of experience, specialised therapeutic tools, and deep community engagement. However, because Medicare does not currently include counsellors under its rebate scheme, we are frequently overlooked.
This is unfortunate—not just for counsellors, but for the thousands of Australians who need affordable, consistent, long-term care.
Why Clients Choose Counsellors Like Me
At Inner Glance, my clients receive:
Private, personalised care—no GP referral or diagnosis needed
Flexible session frequency without Medicare limitations
Support from a trauma-informed, multicultural perspective
Fees between $100–$150 per session—often less than what clients pay out-of-pocket with psychologists
The added benefit of music therapy and holistic techniques to support emotional healing
Did You Know?
Even with Medicare, seeing a psychologist for 10 sessions at $250/session means you're still paying $1,600+ out-of-pocket for the year. That’s more than a full year of counselling with me at Inner Glance—often with better continuity and more attention to your unique story.
When You Actually Need a Counsellor—Not a Psychologist
Many people think that only psychologists can help with mental health. But the truth is, counsellors are specifically trained to support people through everyday emotional struggles, transitions, and relationship dynamics—where a clinical diagnosis or pathology isn’t always necessary.
You don’t always need a label. Sometimes, you just need someone to walk with you through the storm.
Here are some examples where counsellors are often the better fit:
Relationship and marital issues
Grief and loss
Self-esteem and confidence building
Emotional burnout or spiritual crisis
Parenting and family conflicts
Migrant adjustment stress
Domestic abuse recovery
Life transitions (divorce, retirement, relocation)
Stress from cultural identity, expectations, or loneliness
Support during infertility or postnatal challenges
Psychologists often work in clinical or diagnostic frameworks, which are essential for mental illnesses like schizophrenia, PTSD, or severe depression—but if your challenge is rooted in life experience, relationships, or emotional overwhelm, then a counsellor is not only qualified, but often the more appropriate choice.
Some Concerns I Often Hear (And Honest Answers)
Q: “Are counsellors less qualified than psychologists?”
A: No. We are just as committed, regulated, and skilled—but our profession is not yet included in Medicare rebates due to systemic policy gaps. We are registered with national bodies like the Australian Counselling Association (ACA).
Q: “Can I claim private health insurance?”
A: Some private health funds do cover registered counsellors. Check your policy—we’re happy to provide receipts.
Q: “Can I still get help if I need more than 10 sessions?”
A: Absolutely. In fact, many mental health journeys require more than 10 sessions—and that's where counsellors like me come in. We offer ongoing support without limitations.
💬 Final Thought: You Deserve More Than 10 Sessions a Year
Mental health is not a luxury. You shouldn’t have to choose between affordability and care. At Inner Glance, I offer both.
So if you’ve ever thought, “I can’t afford therapy unless it’s covered by Medicare,” I invite you to look again. You might be surprised at how accessible and effective working with a counsellor can be.
📞 Ready to Talk?
Visit www.innerglance.com.au
Western Sydney
madhvi@innerglance.com.au
Online & In-Person Appointments Available
Inner Glance provides counselling services in the following areas. Learn more about common problems and find practitioners that can support you.
