Psychologist Referral Online

You may be able to see a psychologist privately without a doctor’s referral. However, eligible Medicare-subsidised psychology appointments under Better Access usually require an appropriate referral linked to a Mental Health Treatment Plan or another recognised referral pathway. A doctor must first assess your symptoms, ongoing care and eligibility. An online appointment does not guarantee a plan or referral.

Do I need a referral to see a psychologist?

Not always. You can often book and pay for a psychologist yourself. A referral becomes important when you wish to claim a Medicare benefit under the Better Access initiative. That pathway requires qualifying clinical circumstances and a valid referral from an eligible medical practitioner.

A psychologist can help with a broad range of emotional and behavioural difficulties. You can ask the practice about their approach, consultation fees, format and available appointments before choosing a clinician.

How does a Mental Health Treatment Plan lead to a referral?

For eligible patients, a doctor assesses symptoms, functioning, mental health history, risk, existing supports and care needs. A Mental Health Treatment Plan may document the agreed goals, treatment options and referral arrangements. The doctor can then refer to an appropriately eligible psychologist for a course of treatment.

The eligibility rules include requirements about having a clinically diagnosed mental disorder, needing a moderate level of support and seeing an appropriate usual practitioner or MyMedicare practice. Read our Mental Health Treatment Plan guide and Services Australia’s eligibility guidance.

How many psychologist sessions are subsidised by Medicare?

Under Better Access, eligible people can claim benefits for up to 10 individual mental health treatment services per calendar year and up to 10 group services. The initial individual referral is for up to six services; further services require review and a further referral, where clinically appropriate.

Unused referred services may be carried into the next calendar year, but they count towards that new year's annual claiming limit. A referral is for a defined course of treatment, not unlimited appointments. See the official referral rules.

How much does a psychologist appointment cost?

Psychologists set their own fees. Medicare may cover part, but not necessarily all, of an eligible appointment. The out-of-pocket cost depends on the service, provider fee, claiming eligibility and other circumstances. Before booking, ask the provider for the total fee and expected Medicare rebate rather than assuming a treatment plan makes sessions free.

Doccio’s doctor consultation fee is separate from any psychologist fee. A Doccio assessment also does not guarantee Medicare eligibility or that a treating psychologist will accept a referral.

Can a psychologist referral be arranged through telehealth?

An online doctor may be able to begin an assessment and discuss appropriate care. For Better Access, however, the usual-doctor or MyMedicare-practice requirements and relevant Medicare telehealth rules still apply. A one-off remote visit may not qualify for preparation of a Medicare-funded treatment plan.

A doctor may recommend your existing GP or an in-person assessment to preserve continuity and ensure your needs are properly assessed. If you have thoughts of harming yourself or someone else, seek urgent help: call 000 in immediate danger or Lifeline 13 11 14 for 24-hour crisis support.

Where to go next

Explore Mental Health Treatment Plans, specialist referrals, referral hub.

Book a Doccio doctor consultation: Book online. Consultations cost $59 during business hours or $79 after hours. The doctor reviews your symptoms, previous care and available records before deciding whether a referral, request or care plan is clinically appropriate. Doccio is not an automatic letter-writing service; booking a consultation does not guarantee a referral or approval.