A mental health plan is one of the most common ways people in Australia access psychology support through Medicare. Formally, Services Australia refers to this as a mental health treatment plan.
At Hively Health, many of our clients use a mental health treatment plan as part of their therapy journey. For some, it’s the first time they’ve reached out for professional support. For others, it’s something they return to during periods of stress, anxiety, low mood, or life change.
If you’re feeling unsure or nervous about the process, you’re not alone, and there’s no need to have everything figured out before you start.
First steps using a Mental Health Plan
It’s very common to feel anxious about:
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Talking to a GP about your mental health
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Asking for a treatment plan
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Booking your first psychology appointment
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Not knowing what to say
Many people worry their concerns aren’t “serious enough” or that they’ll say the wrong thing. In reality, a mental health plan is simply a practical tool that helps make support more accessible and structured.
You don’t need to be in crisis to ask for help. Many clients come to Hively Health because things feel harder than usual, not because everything has fallen apart.
What Is a Mental Health Plan?
A mental health treatment plan is a plan created by a GP, psychiatrist or paediatrician to support someone experiencing a mental health condition such as anxiety, depression, stress-related concerns, or other recognised conditions. The plan outlines:
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What you’ve been experiencing
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Goals for treatment
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A referral to a mental health professional
Having a mental health treatment plan allows Medicare rebates to be applied to eligible psychology sessions. The exact number of rebated sessions available depends on current Medicare arrangements at the time of writing. Currently, in 2026, individuals will initially recieve up to six rebated sessions with a psychologist. If you need more, your GP can review your treatment plan and refer you for another four sessions. Some GPs will also consider referring you for extra sessions where required under a Chronic Disease Management Plan.
Using a Mental Health Plan at Hively
If you choose to see a psychologist at Hively Health using a mental health plan, our aim is to make the process clear, respectful, and supportive. This means:
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We explain how your referral works
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We talk through Medicare rebates and gap fees upfront
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There’s no pressure to talk about anything you’re not ready for
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Sessions move at a pace that feels right for you
Many clients use a mental health plan to work through concerns such as anxiety, low mood, stress, burnout, or relationship difficulties. Others arrive with a general sense that something isn’t right yet, and that’s okay too.
Medicare Rebates and Private Psychology Fees
Hively Health provides private psychology services. If you have a valid mental health plan and referral, Medicare rebates can be applied to eligible sessions. It’s important to understand that:
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Medicare only covers part of the session cost
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A gap payment remains, which the client pays privately
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Fees and rebates can change over time
We’re transparent about costs and are happy to talk this through before your first appointment, so you know what to expect.
Example Mental Health Plan Goals
Each treatment plan is individual, but very general example goals might include:
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Reducing symptoms of anxiety or low mood
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Improving coping strategies for stress
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Supporting emotional regulation
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Improving sleep or daily functioning
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Strengthening relationships or work wellbeing
Goals can change over time and are reviewed as therapy progresses.
We’re Here to Support You Every Step of the Way
Many people feel nervous before their first appointment, even those who have seen a psychologist before. That nervousness is completely understandable.
At Hively Health, our goal is that people feel safe, supported, and respected as they access care. You don’t need to have the right words, a clear diagnosis, or a plan for what to say.
Starting with a conversation is often the hardest part, and we’re here to meet you there.
The next steps for you
If you’d like to learn more, you can read about our therapy and psychology services in your own time. When you’re ready, you’re welcome to reach out to book an appointment. You can complete our short enquiry form and we’ll be in touch within 24 hours, or call us if you’d prefer to ask a few questions first.
At Hively Health, you’ll find a space where people feel safe, supported, and respected.
Trusted resources
If you’d like to explore more detailed or official information about mental health plans, Medicare, and support options in Australia, the following resources may be helpful:
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Services Australia: Mental health care and Medicare, including how mental health plans work and current rebate arrangements.
- Queensland Health: Information about accessing mental health care plans and support in Queensland.
If you’re ever in crisis or need immediate support, call 000, or contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, available 24/7 across Australia.
Common questions about Mental Health Care Plans
At the time of writing, eligible people can receive up to 10 sessions per a calendar year.
Initially, your treament plan will cover 6 psychology sessions, and if required, another 4 sessions per calendar year.
Your GP can explain what applies to your situation.
Sessions accessed through your Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP) are valid until the full number of referred sessions has been used.
While your treatment plan does not expire, your GP referral to a psychologist covers a fixed number of sessions, and must be renewed or reviewed to access additional sessions.
Unused Medicare-rebated sessions don’t roll over into the next year. You are simply eligible for 10 sessions per calendar year.
Appointments to create a plan with your GP require a longer appointment.
Each session with your psychologist is 50 minutes; there may be exceptions to this, however that will be organised specifically with your psychologist depending on your needs.
If you have a valid Mental Health Treatment Plan, you may be eligible for a rebate from Medicare for up to $98.95 per session, for up to 10 sessions per calendar year.*
You will need to pay the gap for the remaining cost of each therapy session.
*Rebate is correct at the time of writing (February 2026).
