From the 1st November, 2006, Medicare rebates apply for consultations with a psychologist. You can claim up to twelve consultations per calendar year. In order to claim your rebates, you will need to be referred by your GP, paediatrician or psychiatrist. Your GP or paediatrician will also need to provide a mental health care plan at the time of referral.
Medicare rebates will apply for a range of therapeutic purposes, including:
Quitting smoking does not attract a Medicare rebate. However, those with private health insurance can continue to claim a rebate under their extra's cover.
If you are not sure whether or not you are eligible to see a psychologist under Medicare, speak to your GP, or to Rachel - a psychologist.