How to Get a Mental Health Care Plan in Australia

Struggling with anxiety, depression, or another mental health challenge? You're not alone, and in Australia, getting professional support is more accessible than ever through a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP). This government-backed initiative under Medicare helps cover costs for therapy sessions, making it easier for Aussies to prioritise their wellbeing without the full financial burden.

What is a Mental Health Treatment Plan?

A Mental Health Treatment Plan, often called an MHTP, is a structured document created by your GP or prescribed medical practitioner (PMP) to outline your mental health needs and treatment goals. It's part of the Better Access to Psychiatrists, Psychologists and General Practitioners through the Medicare Benefits Schedule (Better Access) initiative, designed to provide affordable access to mental health services.

With an MHTP, eligible Medicare cardholders can claim rebates for up to 10 individual psychological therapy sessions and 10 group therapy sessions per calendar year. These sessions can be in-person or via telehealth with professionals like clinical psychologists, registered psychologists, social workers, or occupational therapists.

Important note: This isn't a one-off; it's a stepped care approach. You'll typically start with a referral for 6 individual sessions, then return to your GP for a review before accessing the remaining 4.

Who is Eligible for a Mental Health Treatment Plan in 2026?

Most Medicare cardholders qualify if they have a diagnosed mental health condition requiring at least moderate care, such as anxiety, depression, or other disorders. No income test applies, making it widely available across Australia.

Key eligibility criteria include:

• A clinical diagnosis from your GP or PMP.
• Assessment showing you'd benefit from structured treatment.
• For preparation or review: Services must come from your MyMedicare-registered practice GP/PMP or your usual medical practitioner (the one providing most of your care).

From 1 November 2025, updates ensure better continuity of care by tying plans to your MyMedicare practice or usual provider, enhancing personalised support.

"The preparation of a MHTP, referrals for treatment and reviews of a MHTP must be provided by either the patient’s usual medical practitioner or a GP or PMP at the patient’s MyMedicare registered practice."

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get a Mental Health Treatment Plan

Getting your MHTP is straightforward and usually takes one GP visit. Here's how to do it in 2026:

Step 1: Book an Appointment with Your GP

Start with your regular GP, especially if enrolled in MyMedicare. If not, any eligible GP or PMP can assess you, but linking to your usual provider streamlines future reviews. Mention you're seeking a mental health assessment—many clinics prioritise these.

Step 2: Undergo the Assessment

Your doctor will:

1. Ask about symptoms, history, and goals.
2. Use tools like questionnaires (e.g., K10 or DASS-21) to gauge severity.
3. Confirm a diagnosis needing moderate support.

This chat helps tailor the plan to you, covering meds, lifestyle strategies, and referrals.

Step 3: GP Prepares Your MHTP

They'll document:

• Your name, DOB, address, and diagnosis.
• Current medications.
• Treatment goals and referral details (e.g., 6 sessions initially).

The GP must have completed accredited mental health training to provide certain services like Focused Psychological Strategies (FPS).

Step 4: Receive Your Referral

Get a referral letter for allied health pros. You can choose your psychologist or use your GP's suggestion—check providers via the Medicare provider directory or Psychology.org.au.

Step 5: Book and Attend Sessions

Claim Medicare rebates at sessions (bulk-billing common, but gap fees may apply—APS recommends ~$318/session in 2025-26). Track usage; after 6 sessions, book a GP review (no more than every 3 months, max 2/year unless exceptional).

Step 6: Review and Extend if Needed

Post-review, access up to 4 more sessions if progressing well. Group therapy (up to 10 sessions) can run alongside.

Pro tip: Use the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) app or Services Australia portal to track claims.

What Does a Mental Health Treatment Plan Cover?

Your MHTP unlocks rebates for:

Service Type	Annual Limit	Eligible Providers
Individual Psychological Therapy	10 sessions	Clinical psychologists
Focused Psychological Strategies (FPS)	10 sessions	Registered psychologists, social workers, OTs, eligible GPs/PMPs
Group Therapy	10 sessions	Eligible allied health (excludes family/couples)

Telehealth is fully supported, ideal for regional Aussies or busy schedules. Reviews use time-tiered MBS items.

Recent Changes to Mental Health Treatment Plans (2025-2026)

Key updates from 1 November 2025 align with a stepped care model:

• MHTP tied to MyMedicare or usual practitioner for continuity.
• Telehealth MHTP items now require established relationship.
• No impact on psychiatrist/pediatrician referrals.

These ensure focused, effective care while maintaining access.

Practical Tips for Aussies Using Your MHTP

• Find providers: Search via healthdirect.gov.au or your GP.
• Regional access: Telehealth bridges gaps—rural rebates same as city.
• Bulk billing: Ask upfront; many psychologists bulk bill MHTP sessions.
• Track sessions: Medicare sends statements; don't exceed limits without review.
• Combine supports: Pair with Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636) or Lifeline (13 11 14) for crises.
• MyMedicare: Enrol at servicesaustralia.gov.au for better GP links.

Always consult your healthcare professional for personalised advice—this isn't medical advice.

Next Steps: Take Action Today

Don't wait—book that GP appointment via Healthdirect or your clinic's app. With Medicare rebates covering most costs, starting your mental health journey is within reach. Track progress, review regularly, and reach out to supports like PANDA Helpline for perinatal concerns. Prioritising your mental health strengthens our communities, one plan at a time.

Disclaimer: This guide uses 2026 information; policies change. Consult your GP or healthcare professional for advice tailored to you.