💰 How Much Does It Cost to See a Mental Health Professional in Australia?
At SeekHelp, we believe that getting the right mental health support shouldn’t be confusing—or a financial mystery. Whether you’re seeing a psychologist, psychiatrist, social worker or counsellor, it’s important to understand the average costs and what rebates may apply.
Here’s a practical guide to help you navigate the costs of mental health care in Australia in 2025.
🧠 1. Psychiatrist
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can diagnose and treat complex mental illnesses and prescribe medication.
- Initial Appointment: $300–$600
- Follow-up Appointments: $200–$400
- Medicare Rebate: Up to $246.15 (item 296/297), and $119.40 for reviews
- Out-of-Pocket Costs: Typically $50–$350
- Bulk Billing: Rare but available in public mental health clinics or with long wait times
🧠 2. Psychologist (General & Clinical)
Psychologists support people with issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and stress through evidence-based therapies.
General Psychologist
- Session Fee: $180–$250
- Medicare Rebate: $96.65 (with Mental Health Care Plan)
- Out-of-Pocket: $80–$160
Clinical Psychologist
- Session Fee: $220–$300
- Medicare Rebate: $137.05 (with Mental Health Care Plan)
- Out-of-Pocket: $80–$180
🔹 A GP referral and Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) are required for rebates under the Better Access initiative.
🧠 3. Occupational Therapist (OT – Mental Health)
Mental health OTs help clients develop everyday coping strategies, particularly for those with functional or sensory challenges.
- Session Fee: $150–$220
- Medicare Rebate: $81.90 (under MHCP)
- Out-of-Pocket: $70–$140
- Bulk Billing: Occasionally available
🧠 4. Accredited Mental Health Social Worker
These professionals support individuals with complex psychosocial issues including trauma, abuse, and chronic stress.
- Session Fee: $160–$230
- Medicare Rebate: $81.90 (under MHCP)
- Out-of-Pocket: $70–$150
- Bulk Billing: Occasionally available
🧠 5. Counsellor
Counsellors offer a safe space to talk through emotional issues and life challenges. While highly valuable, most counsellors are not eligible for Medicare rebates.
- Session Fee: $80–$150
- Medicare Rebate: ❌ Not covered under Medicare
- Out-of-Pocket: $80–$150
- Sliding Scale/Concessions: Often available
📝 Summary Table
| Professional | Session Fee | Medicare Rebate | Out-of-Pocket |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychiatrist | $200–$600 | $119.40–$246.15 | $50–$350 |
| Psychologist (General) | $180–$250 | $96.65 | $80–$160 |
| Psychologist (Clinical) | $220–$300 | $137.05 | $80–$180 |
| Mental Health OT | $150–$220 | $81.90 | $70–$140 |
| Social Worker (MH Accredited) | $160–$230 | $81.90 | $70–$150 |
| Counsellor | $80–$150 | ❌ | $80–$150 |