Other mental health professionals
Accredited Mental Health Social Workers
Accredited Mental Health Social Workers can treat mental health conditions. This includes anxiety and depression. Treatments include:
- cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) – changing the way you think (cognitive) and act (behavioural).
- interpersonal therapy (IPT) - improving relationships to improve your mental health.
- training for relaxation and interpersonal skills.
You don’t need a referral to see an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, but you’ll need a referral to claim a Medicare rebate.
To find an Accredited Mental Health Social Workers near you use the Australian Association of Social Workers directory.
Mental health occupational therapists
Mental health occupational therapists help people with anxiety and depression take part in everyday activities. They give support for:
- self-care – such as showering, dressing or preparing food
- getting back to work - such as education, paid work or volunteering
- connecting with others – such as making friends or joining a community group.
You don’t need a referral to see a mental health occupational therapist, but you’ll need a referral from a GP to get a Medicare rebate.
To find a qualified occupational therapist near you use Occupational Therapy Australia’s directory.
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Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workers
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workers understand the health issues of First Nations Peoples. They know what’s needed to provide culturally safe and accessible services.
Support can include:
- screening, assessment, referrals and case management
- transport to and attendance at specialist appointments
- education and advocacy
- counselling and support for family and acute distress response.
Find support near you at Helpful contacts and websites for First Nations Peoples.
Crisis Assessment or Acute Treatment teams
Crisis Assessment or Acute Treatment teams provide emergency psychiatric care in the community. They're sometimes called CAT teams.
If you’re experiencing a crisis, you can be assessed and treated in the community. However, if you’re a potential danger to yourself or others, you’ll be admitted to hospital.
You can contact a CAT team by calling the local hospital or community mental health services.
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How much does it cost to see a mental health professional?
Most mental health professionals set their own fees, so the cost varies. Check with your preferred mental health support service and ask if you can use:
- Medicare rebates
- private health insurance rebates
- NDIS budget.
Some practitioners may also offer ‘sliding scale’ fees, with lower fees for low-income clients.
Medicare rebates for mental health support services
Medicare rebates are available to people with a diagnosed mental health condition such as anxiety or depression.
You may still need to pay a ‘gap’ fee. This is the difference between the health professional’s fee and the Medicare rebate.
The first step is to get a mental health treatment plan from your GP.
Find out more about Medicare rebates with the Department of Health’s Better Access initiative.
Private health insurance rebates
Many private health insurers offer rebates for mental health services and medical treatment. Check with your health insurance provider to see if you’re covered.
NDIS
You may be able to use the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) funding for mental health support.
Find out more on the
NDIS website.
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More support to get started
If you’re still unsure after talking to your GP, our counsellors can help find the right mental health services for you. Use our free, confidential counselling service (local call costs apply):
Read our helpful articles to get started