What to Expect During an Online Mental Health Assessment in 2026

Mental health assessments are an important route for unlocking affordable mental health treatment through bulk-billed counselling. Whether you need to renew your mental health treatment plan (MHTP) or it’s your first time getting one, online telehealth providers can provide a viable alternative to in-person doctor consults. In this Medicompare guide, I will walk you through the steps, from preparation to booking and follow-up, so you can focus on the important part: getting the right healthcare solution for you.

• Finding the right provider is a very personal choice. Medicompare lets you compare telehealth providers, online mental health platforms, bulk-billed options, and GP consult services in one place. Thorough vetting and in-depth reviews help you save time finding a service that matches your needs. There are two steps to consider: finding the right telehealth platform for an assessment and MHTP referral, and finding the right counselling service or telepsychology provider to book your mental health sessions with post-referral.
• Confirming if the initial doctor’s consult is covered by Medicare and/ or your private health insurer should be your next step. Do your research to find an option that brings down your out-of-pocket costs, such as Hola Health’s fully bulk-billed mental health assessments, if possible. Some telehealth providers also offer compassionate or hardship access to appointments, like Greencare. Medicompare’s Mental Health or Bulk Billing pages are updated regularly. Many providers also list this information in the “bulk billing”, “mental health” or “pricing” section of their websites.
• Book in early, where possible. While most providers allow you to book a video or phone session with the next available doctor, such as Healthy Life, mental health-specific appointments sometimes have longer wait times. (Although most providers have a same-day guarantee.)

Test your tech in advance to reduce possible interruptions and delays. This includes checking your webcam and microphone at least ten minutes before the appointment. You may also want to verify your internet or phone connection in the area where you are setting up.

Gather any necessary documents, like your Medicare card, existing MHTP (if you have one), a brief symptom diary, a list of any meds and possible questions ready. Preparing this in advance, and maybe even uploading or sharing it through the platform, will help the GP understand your history quickly.

Choose a quiet space and let others know not to disturb you for the next 15 minutes. A private room with minimal background noise protects your confidentiality, and you’ll feel more comfortable opening up, making for a safe, focused conversation.

1. Identity verification: The doctor confirms your name and Medicare details, complying with Australian privacy standards.
2. Clinical interview: The practitioner assesses your mental health needs by using structured questions, exploring mood, sleep, concentration, and any safety concerns.
3. Risk screening: If suicidal thoughts or self-harm patterns emerge, the clinician follows emergency protocols, which may involve contacting a local crisis service.
4. Physical check-in: While a full physical exam isn’t possible via telehealth consult, the doctor may ask about medications, substance use, and overall health to rule out medical contributors to your condition.
5. Treatment discussion: If deemed eligible and suitable for an MHTP, medication or other treatment, the GP describes the process involved. They ask for your preferred choice of counsellor and previous experiences with counselling. You can ask any logistical questions you may have at this point.
6. Feedback & next steps: At the end of the session, you typically receive a summary in MyHealthRecord, any prescribed treatment plan (which may include medication if appropriate), and referral for your MHTP, further therapy or specialist care.

• Digital prescriptions: If medication is needed, the clinician can send an eScript directly to your phone via token or sometimes to your chosen pharmacy. Some services also offer medication delivery, such as Hola Health and Hola Meds.
• Therapy referrals: Many comprehensive telehealth providers can arrange bulk-billed counselling sessions under an MHTP, or they can refer you to a psychologist for an MHTP.
• Reassessment timing:  Typically, a follow-up appointment is scheduled within 2–4 weeks for medications or within a few months to monitor response to treatment and review.

Online mental health assessments with established telehealth providers offer a streamlined, confidential solution that can be booked in minutes, conducted the same day from the comfort of your home, and followed by tailored care plans. It’s no wonder they are a popular option with many Australian patients. By using Medicompare’s tools, you can select a bulk-billed, reputable provider that fits your budget and preferences.

This article is for informational purposes only and is no substitute for professional medical advice. Please choose your provider with care. Always consult your doctor or a qualified health professional regarding any health-related questions or concerns.