Access psychology, therapy and counselling services
We want to make mental health care as accessible and as normal as going to the gym so that you get the mental health support you need, when you need it. We’ve detailed the different ways you can access our services below, or you can talk to our friendly team about your options. Simply phone 1800 277 924 or email us at info@accesspsych.com.au
Medicare
Medicare rebates are available for psychological treatment by registered psychologists under the Australian Government’s Better Access to Mental Health Care Program. This initiative provides assistance to people living with mental health problems, allowing them greater access to psychologists and providing more affordable mental healthcare.
Under the program, psychologists can provide approved psychological strategies and therapies for a broad range of commonly experienced mental health problems including depression, anxiety, panic attacks, bipolar, phobias, substance issues, sleep problems, grief, loss and trauma-related conditions.
Psychologists will assess each client individually and tailor treatment programs which may incorporate approved treatments such as cognitive-behaviour therapy, relaxation and stress management techniques, interpersonal therapy and eye movement desensitisation therapy (EMDR). Psychologists may also engage in specific skills training featuring problem solving skills, anger management and communication skills.
Individuals diagnosed with a mental health disorder may be eligible for a rebate for up to 10 individual counselling sessions, and up to 10 group therapy sessions, in a calendar year. Medicare requires that you, your clinician and your doctor periodically review (every four to six sessions) how you are progressing with treatment.
How to obtain a Medicare referral
You must be referred to Access Psych by your doctor (GP), a psychiatrist or a paediatrician. Your doctor must first assess and determine that the services of a psychologist are required.
Access Psych clinicians will continue to work collaboratively with your doctor, providing correspondence over the course of your treatment to ensure that they are aware of your progress with treatment.
Private appointments
Anyone is able to access psychological intervention and support without a referral as a private client and Access Psych welcomes self-referrals for treatment of mental health conditions or concerns. There are no limits on the number of sessions that a private client can access. You will not be eligible for any Medicare rebate under a self-referral.
How to self-refer
Simply complete an online booking form, phone 1800 277 924 or email info@accesspsych.com.au to make an appointment.
Private health insurance
For clients with extras cover, you may be entitled to a rebate on psychology services. Every policy is different and it is recommended that you check with your health fund about their eligibility requirements before contacting Access Psych to make an appointment.
Access Psych can provide a receipt for services provided to allow you to seek a rebate from your Private Health Insurance.
Referrals Under Private Health Insurance
Once you have checked with your health fund and obtained a referral from your doctor (if required) please contact Access Psych on 1800 277 924 to book an appointment.
Workers Compensation
If you have sustained a psychological injury at work or if you have a psychological condition relating to a workplace injury you may be eligible to access psychological treatment services under Workers Compensation. The number of sessions approved under the Workers Compensation scheme is determined on a case-by-case basis.
Access Psych clinicians are Workers Compensation specialists and endeavour to work collaboratively with your treating health professionals and other relevant parties relating to your claim (e.g., your Nominated Treating Doctor, your insurer and your Rehabilitation Provider) to support your recovery and transition through the return-to-work process.
Referral to treatment
An injured worker is able to access psychological treatment through Workers Compensation when this psychological intervention is recommended as part of the Treatment Plan documented on the Certificate of Capacity. Access Psych is able to assist clients with seeking approval from the Workers Compensation Insurance Claims Manager prior to proceeding with any services.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
If your employer has an EAP Service Agreement with Access Psych, you are able to access counselling sessions to assist with personal, family or work-related issues. To access those sessions, you can complete a self-referral or be referred through your workplace representative.