The most important step to navigating your mental health journey is seeking support. Whether you’re managing stress, dealing with difficult emotions, or exploring specific concerns, there are multiple pathways to get the help you need. This guide covers options available in Australia, from visiting your GP to private health support and contacting a mental health professional directly.

1. Visit Your General Practitioner (GP)

Your GP can be your first stop when seeking mental health support. During this visit, consider discussing:

• Your symptoms and how you’re feeling
• Any thoughts or behaviours that concern you
• Events or factors that may have impacted your well-being

Booking a longer consultation can be helpful. It gives you and your GP more time to go through these concerns and to consider your eligibility for a Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP), which outlines the support you may need and the type of professional that could be beneficial for you.

What is a Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP)?

An MHCP allows you to access up to 10 sessions per calendar year with a Medicare-registered mental health professional. Through this plan, you can receive a rebate for your sessions with a psychologist, psychiatrist, mental health social worker, or mental health occupational therapist under the Medicare Better Access initiative.

Choosing a Mental Health Professional

Your GP may recommend a mental health professional, or you can request a specific therapist if you have one in mind. Once you have an MHCP, you can present it to your chosen mental health professional at your first session or have your GP send it directly.

2. Contact a Mental Health Professional Directly

If you prefer, you can reach out to a mental health professional without needing an MHCP or referral. Directories like Mental Health Hublink offer a wide range of Australian mental health practitioners. Using the directory, you can search for a therapist who aligns with your needs and contact them via their profile by email or phone.

Out-of-Pocket Costs

Without an MHCP, you will be responsible for full out-of-pocket fees as Medicare rebates will not apply. However, contacting professionals directly allows flexibility to choose someone whose approach resonates with you.

3. Explore Private Health Insurance Options

If you have private health insurance, it is worth checking if your policy covers mental health services. Many policies offer benefits for counselling and psychology, which can help reduce out-of-pocket costs.

• Inpatient and Outpatient Services: Some insurance providers cover inpatient services (hospital-based) and outpatient sessions.
• Contact Your Insurer: Verify your level of mental health cover with your insurance provider, as details can vary significantly between policies.

4. Using Online and Telehealth Services

With the expansion of telehealth services in Australia, you can now connect with mental health professionals online, which is especially helpful if you live in a remote area or need more flexibility.

• Medicare-Covered Telehealth: If you have an MHCP, you may be able to access Medicare-covered telehealth sessions.
• Private Telehealth Services: Many private practitioners offer telehealth, which is accessible without an MHCP but typically requires out-of-pocket payment.

5. I Need Support Right Now

If you need urgent support, several crisis lines are available across Australia. Reaching out for immediate help is a critical step if you’re are experiencing a mental health crisis.

Emergency and Crisis Support Contacts

• Emergency Services: 000
• Beyond Blue: 1300 22 46 36
• Brother to Brother: 1800 435 799 (for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men)
• Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800 (for ages 5 to 25)
• Lifeline: 13 11 14
• Mensline Australia: 1300 78 99 78
• NSW Mental Health Link: 1800 011 511
• QLD MH CALL: 1300 642 255
• QLife: 1800 184 527 (LGBTIQ+ support)
• Suicide Callback Service: 1300 659 467
• 13 YARN: 13 92 76 (support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people)
• 1800 RESPECT: 1800 737 732 (support for sexual assault or domestic and family violence)

Discover Your Path to Wellness with Mental Health Hublink

Connecting with the right mental health professional to support your journey towards wellness is easier than ever with Mental Health Hublink. Our directory showcases a diverse range of Australian practitioners, helping you find a match tailored to your unique needs.

The information on our Site, including content and articles, is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. This content should not be used to diagnose or treat health issues and does not establish a physician-patient relationship. For specific health concerns, users should consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised advice.

Mental Health Hublink

Finding support and understanding the type needed can feel overwhelming. Our aim is to bridge this gap by providing information and resources tailored to the Australian health landscape, along with a comprehensive directory to match individuals with the best options for their unique needs.

We strive to create a platform that promotes holistic well-being, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to lead healthier, happier lives – through resources, information, and therapy options, including individual, couples, family, group therapy, or mental health retreats.