Can You Get a Mental Health Care Plan for Telehealth Counselling?

Mental health support has become more accessible than ever through telehealth counselling. Many Australians now prefer online psychology sessions because they’re flexible, private, and easier to fit into busy schedules.

If you're considering Telehealth counselling services in Adelaide, you may be wondering whether a Mental Health Care Plan can be used for online appointments. The good news is yes. Eligible Australians can access Medicare rebates for telehealth psychology sessions under a Mental Health Care Plan, helping to reduce the cost of professional support.

At Kensington Psychology, we offer both in-person and online counselling sessions to make mental health support more accessible and convenient.

What Is a Mental Health Care Plan?

A Mental Health Care Plan is a support plan developed by a GP to help eligible Australians access mental health treatment and receive Medicare rebates.

The plan can provide access to sessions with registered psychologists for concerns such as:

• Anxiety 

• Depression 

• Stress 

• Trauma 

• Relationship difficulties 

Many people use a Mental Health Care Plan to make therapy more affordable and easier to access.

Can You Use a Mental Health Care Plan for Telehealth Counselling?

Yes, in many cases, you can use a Mental Health Care Plan for telehealth counselling sessions.

If your psychologist offers online appointments and you have a valid referral from your GP, you may be eligible for Medicare rebates for those sessions.

This means you can attend therapy from home while still receiving professional mental health support.

Telehealth counselling has become especially helpful for:

• Busy professionals 

• Parents 

• Rural or regional clients 

• People with mobility challenges 

• Individuals who prefer private online support 

  
  

How Does Telehealth Counselling Work?

Telehealth counselling allows you to speak with a psychologist via secure video or phone appointments.

The process is usually simple:

• Book your appointment

• Receive a secure session link

• Join the session privately from home

• Speak with your psychologist as you would in person 

Many clients appreciate the flexibility and comfort of online counselling. Some even find it easier to open up in a familiar environment.

Who Is Eligible for a Mental Health Care Plan?

Your GP will assess whether a Mental Health Care Plan suits your situation.

You may be eligible if you are experiencing:

• Anxiety or panic attacks 

• Depression or low mood 

• Ongoing stress 

• Sleep difficulties 

• Emotional overwhelm 

• Trauma-related symptoms 

• Relationship challenges 

Many people seeking telehealth counselling also look for specialised support tailored to their personal experiences and challenges. For example, individuals seeking a male psychologist for anxiety and stress support may prefer speaking with someone who understands men’s mental health concerns in a comfortable, confidential environment. 

How Many Psychology Sessions Can you Access with a Mental Health Care Plan in Adelaide?

Eligible Australians can generally access Medicare rebates for up to 10 individual psychology sessions per calendar year.

Usually:

• Your GP initially refers you for 6 sessions 

• Additional sessions may be approved after a review appointment 

Your psychologist can also work collaboratively with your GP to support your treatment goals.

What Are the Benefits of Telehealth Counselling?

Telehealth counselling offers flexibility without compromising the personal connection that therapy provides.

• Convenience and Flexibility

You can attend appointments from home, at work, or in another quiet space that suits you.

• Easier Access to Mental Health Support

Telehealth makes counselling more accessible for people in rural and regional areas.

• Less Travel Stress

No commuting, parking, or waiting rooms. Sometimes the best commute is simply walking from the kitchen to your laptop.

• Comfortable Environment

Many people feel more relaxed discussing emotions in a familiar setting.

Is Telehealth Counselling Effective?

Yes, telehealth counselling can be highly effective for many mental health concerns.

Online therapy is commonly used to support:

• Anxiety counselling 

• Depression counselling 

• Stress management 

• Trauma therapy 

• Relationship counselling 

Many psychologists now combine online and face-to-face sessions, depending on individual needs and preferences.

What Types of Therapy Can Be Provided Through Telehealth?

Many evidence-based therapies can be delivered effectively online.

These may include:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) 

• Anxiety therapy 

• Depression therapy 

• Stress management counselling 

• Trauma counselling 

• Men’s mental health support 

• Relationship therapy 

  
  

What Do You Need for a Telehealth Psychology Appointment?

Most telehealth appointments require only a few simple things:

• A phone, tablet, or computer

• An internet connection

• A quiet, private room

• Headphones, if preferred 

You don’t need advanced technical skills. If you can join a video call, you can usually access telehealth counselling with ease.

Are Online Psychology Sessions Confidential?

Yes, telehealth psychology sessions are confidential.

Registered psychologists use secure systems and adhere to strict professional privacy standards to protect client information.

Confidentiality has only limited exceptions, such as serious safety concerns or legal requirements.

How to Get a Mental Health Care Plan for Online Counselling

The process is usually straightforward.

Step 1: Visit Your GP

Book an appointment with your doctor to discuss your mental health concerns.

Step 2: Discuss Symptoms and Challenges

Your GP may ask about stress, anxiety, mood, sleep, or daily functioning.

Step 3: Receive Your Referral

If appropriate, your GP can prepare a Mental Health Care Plan and referral.

Step 4: Book Your Telehealth Session

You can then arrange an appointment with a registered psychologist who offers telehealth counselling.

Telehealth Counselling vs In-Person Therapy

Both telehealth and face-to-face counselling can be effective.

Telehealth may suit people who:

• Prefer flexible scheduling 

• Work long hours 

• Live remotely 

• Feel more comfortable at home

  
  

Face-to-face therapy may suit those who prefer direct, in-person interaction.

Some clients use both, depending on their circumstances.

FAQs About Telehealth Counselling and Mental Health Care Plans

1. Can I get Medicare rebates for telehealth counselling?

Yes, eligible telehealth psychology sessions may be eligible for Medicare rebates under a Mental Health Care Plan.

2. Do I need a referral for online counselling?

You can book privately, but a GP referral is usually required to receive Medicare rebates.

3. Is telehealth counselling as effective as face-to-face therapy?

For many people, online counselling can be as effective as in-person sessions.

4. Can I attend telehealth counselling from home?

Yes, most online counselling sessions can be attended privately from home.

5. How long does a telehealth psychology session take?

Most psychology appointments last about 50 to 60 minutes.

6. Can teenagers access online counselling?

Yes, telehealth counselling can support teenagers, adults, and families, depending on the psychologist’s services.

Book a Telehealth Counselling Session

Accessing mental health support is now easier and more flexible than ever.

If you’re considering telehealth counselling or would like to learn more about Mental Health Care Plans, Kensington Psychology offers professional online therapy and counselling tailored to your needs.