Referrals from GPs and medical professionals
We welcome referrals from General Practitioners, psychiatrists or other medical practitioners under the Medicare Better Access to Mental Health Care Plan. This plan enables patients to access up to 10 Medicare-rebated psychology sessions per calendar year.
To refer a patient under the Better Access program:
- Ask the GP to prepare a Mental Health Care Plan addressing treatment recommendations.
- The referral should be addressed to:
Happy Minds Psychology or the clinician of your choice.
Once the GP has issued the care plan, you can email it to appointments@happyminds.net.au.
Options for clients
If you are a client looking to access psychology services, there are several ways to be seen:
- GP referral under Better Access:
See your GP in Geelong or surrounding areas for a Mental Health Care Plan.
This referral can be used to claim Medicare rebates (e.g. approximately $96.65 per session).
Email your care plan to appointments@happyminds.net.au before your first session.
You may book directly with one of our psychologists without a referral.
Private clients pay the full fee and are not claiming a Medicare rebate.
- Private health insurance:
If you have extras cover with psychological counselling benefits, you can claim a partial rebate through your health fund. Rebates depend on your level of cover.
Getting a Mental Health Care Plan
To obtain a Mental Health Care Plan, simply:
- Book an appointment with your local GP to discuss and assess your mental health needs.
- Ask the GP to prepare a care plan that can be used for rebate eligibility under the Medicare Better Access program.
Once you have a valid care plan, send it to Happy Minds Psychology prior to booking or attending your appointment to ensure rebates are applied.
In-person and telehealth referrals
Happy Minds Psychology provides appointments in Geelong and via secure telehealth platforms for clients Australia-wide. Telehealth sessions offer flexible access to psychological care wherever you’re located.
If you are unsure about the referral process, Medicare requirements, or booking options, contact our friendly team. We’re always happy to answer questions and help make the next steps feel clear, straightforward, and well supported.
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