Comprehensive Guide to Telehealth Clinical Psychologist Anxiety Rebates

Accessing mental health care is an important step for Australians experiencing anxiety, and understanding the available rebates can make this support more affordable. In recent years, telehealth services have expanded access to clinical psychologists, allowing individuals to attend appointments remotely while still being eligible for Medicare rebates.

This guide explains how telehealth clinical psychologist anxiety rebates work in Australia, who may be eligible, and how telehealth fits into broader anxiety support pathways.

• Telehealth clinical psychologist anxiety rebates allow eligible Australians to claim Medicare rebates for psychology sessions delivered via video or phone, provided the service is referred by a GP (or psychiatrist) and billed by a registered clinical psychologist.
• Access usually starts with an (online) GP consult and a Mental Health Treatment Plan (or a psychiatrist assessment). The plan specifies the number of rebated sessions.
• Rebates cover a substantial portion of the fee (e.g., $145.25 per session for a clinical psychologist as of 1 July 2025) but may not eliminate out-of-pocket costs unless the provider bulk bills.
• Telehealth psychology supports flexible, accessible anxiety care, particularly for people in regional areas or those seeking ongoing support without in-person visits. It also provides flexibility for those with work or family commitments.

Telehealth clinical psychologist anxiety rebates are Medicare rebates that may apply when eligible patients attend psychology appointments via phone or video rather than in person. The rebates are part of the Better Access Initiative, which funds up to 10 individual and 10 group therapy mental health sessions per calendar year for each patient. These rebates are designed to support access to Mental Health care while maintaining professional standards and clinical oversight.

Rebates are not automatic; they require a valid referral and must be billed using the appropriate MBS item numbers for telehealth psychology services. Telehealth appointments must meet the same clinical criteria as face-to-face consultations.

Medicare and Referral Requirements

To access Medicare rebates for psychology services, patients generally need a referral. Eligible patients can obtain a referral and a Mental Health Treatment Plan (or a psychiatrist assessment) from a GP or psychiatrist. This plan outlines the number of eligible sessions. This process usually begins with a GP consult, during which the GP assesses suitability for psychological support and outlines a care plan where appropriate.

Once referred, patients can claim the set number of rebated sessions with a registered clinical psychologist, including appointments delivered via telehealth.

Eligible Providers and Services

Rebates apply only when services are delivered by registered clinical psychologists who are listed on the Medicare Provider Register.

Sessions must be delivered via approved communication methods (secure video platforms or telephone) and comply with the relevant Medicare billing rules.

Not all online services are automatically covered. It is important to confirm eligibility before booking an appointment.

Clinical psychologists play a key role in treating anxiety. Through telehealth, they can conduct assessments, deliver evidence-based therapies (e.g., CBT), and provide ongoing monitoring without requiring patients to travel to a physical clinic.

Telehealth services may be particularly helpful for people living in regional or remote areas, those with mobility limitations, or individuals seeking greater flexibility around work or family commitments.

Rebates Versus Out-of-Pocket Costs

Medicare rebates typically cover part of the consultation fee, meaning there may still be an out-of-pocket cost depending on the provider’s fees. The Medicare rebate for a clinical‑psychologist session is $145.25 (effective 1 July 2025). Providers may fully bulk bill, resulting in no out-of-pocket cost, but bulk billing is at the provider’s discretion. If the provider charges above the rebate amount, the patient pays the difference.

It is recommended that patients confirm fees and rebate amounts with the provider before commencing treatment.

Private Billing and Telehealth Platforms

Some telehealth platforms offer privately billed psychology services without any rebates. While these may provide faster access, they do not replace Medicare-supported pathways and should be considered alongside cost and care continuity.

Telehealth clinical psychology services are accessed through a range of Australian-registered online platforms that connect patients with eligible psychologists. These platforms often support appointment booking, secure video consultations, and communication between patients and providers.

When comparing options, it is helpful to consider factors such as professional credentials, billing transparency (rebate eligibility, bulk‑billing policy), appointment availability and waiting times, and privacy and security standards (encrypted video, compliance with Australian privacy law).

Telehealth psychology services can be integrated with other components of anxiety care. They may complement in-person services, GP-managed plans, or other community-based support options.

For many patients, telehealth reduces barriers to consistent care, improving continuity of care by making it easier to attend follow-up appointments and maintain engagement with treatment plans over time.

Choosing a telehealth psychology service involves weighing factors such as eligibility for rebates, service availability, and communication preferences. Medicompare supports Australians by presenting clear, structured information about telehealth providers and access pathways, helping users understand their options without providing medical advice.

This comparison-focused approach allows individuals and families to make informed decisions based on their personal circumstances.

Telehealth clinical psychology services are intended for non-urgent mental health support. Telehealth psychology is intended for routine anxiety support. Individuals experiencing severe distress, a risk of harm, or a crisis should seek immediate assistance through emergency or crisis services. You can call 000 or contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Patients should also be aware that rebate eligibility rules may change. It is important to confirm current requirements with the consulting GP or psychologist, healthcare providers or Medicare.

Telehealth clinical psychologist anxiety rebates play an important role in improving access to mental health care across Australia. The pathway is available through an initial GP or psychologist assessment. By combining professional psychological support with the convenience of telehealth, eligible patients can receive meaningful ongoing routine care while reducing logistical barriers.

Understanding the referral pathways, rebate eligibility, and billing options empowers patients to make informed choices and find the right provider to fit their needs. When used appropriately, telehealth psychology services can be a valuable part of ongoing mental health management. They represent a potentially highly valuable part of your mental health journey.

The content created is intended for informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment. Always consult a healthcare professional for personal medical advice or treatment.