REFERRAL INFORMATION
Do I need a referral from a GP to make an appointment?
While you do not need a GP or specialist referral to see one of our psychologists, a referral may help with costs associated with seeing a psychologist.
Medicare
You may be eligible for 10 partially rebated sessions per calendar year (January to December) under Medicare’s Better Access Scheme. To access this service, you will need a referral from your GP, Paediatrician or Psychiatrist. The referral paperwork issued by a GP is called a Mental Health Care or Treatment Plan (MHCP/ MHTP). Paediatricians and Psychiatrists do not have to fill out this paperwork, but can write a referral letter asking that you been seen under the Medicare Better Access Scheme. The referring doctor or specialist will specify how many sessions they would like you seen for before you need to return to see them for a review.
Eligibility for a MHCP is determined by your GP or specialist. The scheme covers issues like anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, adjustment disorder and sleep problems. You can read more about Medicare rebates for Mental Health services provided by Psychologists (including what mental health problems can be treated under the Better Access initiative) by clicking on our resources tab.
Please note: Referrals from GP’s and specialists are valid for 12 months. The MHTP only relates to the person listed, so Medicare will only cover sessions where the psychologist has worked directly with the person listed on the MHTP.
Consultations with a Clinical Psychologist attract a higher Medicare rebate.
Out of pocket costs are further reduced when you reach the threshold for out of pocket expenses under Medicare’s Safety Net Scheme. You need to register for this scheme with Medicare. You can read more about Medicare's Safety Net Scheme under our resources tab.
Private Health Funds
If you do not wish to claim, or are not eligible to claim, through Medicare, you may be able to claim a portion of the service fee under your Private Health Fund. Rebates will vary dependent on individual health funds and level of cover. We recommend you contact your Private Fund to confirm whether you are covered for psychological sessions prior to your initial appointment.
Claims can be made through either your Private Health Fund or Medicare (not both unfortunately).
Fees
Our fees reflect the specialist nature of our services and the level of experience of individual psychologists. All of our psychologists have a Clinical Master’s degree so attract a higher rebate from Medicare (Clinical Psychologist rebate $137.05). Please contact the office for more information regarding specific fees.
Cancellation Policy
Lindfield Psychology has a 24-hour cancellation policy. If cancellations are made within 24-hours, the full service fee is payable. This fee is unfortunately not able to be claimed through Medicare or Private Health Funds. If we are given 24-hours’ notice we are generally able to fill appointments without issue.