If you've been putting off talking to someone about your mental health because of cost, wait times, or simply not knowing where to start — a Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) is the first step, and you can now get one online.
Here's how it works, who's eligible, and how eligible Medicare card holders can get it bulk billed.
Ready to take the first step? Check your eligibility and book your mental health plan today.
Book a Bulk-Billed Mental Health PlanWhat is a Mental Health Care Plan?
A mental health care plan (sometimes called a Mental Health Treatment Plan) is a document your GP creates after assessing your mental health. It maps out your concerns, goals, and treatment options — and it's your key to Medicare-subsidised sessions with a psychologist, social worker, or occupational therapist.
With a plan in place, eligible patients can access up to 10 individual subsidised therapy sessions per calendar year under the Medicare Better Access initiative.
What Conditions Can a Plan Help With?
A GP can prepare a mental health care plan for a wide range of concerns, including:
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Depression and persistent low mood
- Stress and burnout
- Sleep problems linked to mental health
- Grief and loss
- Postnatal mental health concerns
The GP assessment is a conversation, not a test — there's no pass or fail. If you're struggling, that's reason enough to book.
Key Benefits of Getting Your Plan Online
Online GP availability often beats weeks-long traditional clinic waitlists.
Eligible Medicare card holders pay $0 out of pocket for the consultation, with no gap fees.
Consult with an AHPRA-registered doctor from a space where you feel completely comfortable.
Available seamlessly across capital cities and regional areas alike.
How to Get a Mental Health Care Plan Online
Getting an MHCP through telehealth takes three simple steps:
- Check eligibility & book online: You'll need a valid Medicare card to access bulk billing for this service. (Learn more about our online mental health services here).
- Talk to a GP: A phone or video consultation with an AHPRA-registered doctor who will assess your mental health and, if appropriate, prepare your plan.
- Get your referral: Your plan and referral to a psychologist or other mental health professional is sent to you digitally, ready to use.
No waiting room. No taking a day off work. No explaining yourself to a receptionist.
Who Can Access Medicare-Subsidised Psychology Sessions?
To use a mental health care plan for subsidised therapy sessions, you generally need to be:
- An Australian citizen or permanent resident, or covered under a reciprocal health care agreement
- A valid Medicare card holder
- Assessed by a GP as having a mental health condition that would benefit from structured treatment
If you're not eligible for Medicare, you can still book a standard telehealth consultation to discuss options and get private referrals.
What Happens After the Plan Is Made?
Your care doesn't stop at the referral. A typical pathway looks like this:
- Your GP prepares the MHCP and refers you to a suitable mental health professional.
- You attend sessions with a psychologist (in person or via telehealth) using your Medicare rebate.
- You return to your GP for a review to track progress and update your plan.
Your GP remains your central point of care the whole way through.
Telehealth is for non-urgent care. If you're in crisis or at risk of harm, do not wait for an appointment:
- Call 000 immediately in an emergency
- Contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 (available 24/7)
You are not alone—help is always available.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Common questions about online mental health care plans and Medicare rebates.
Is an online mental health care plan the same as an in-person one?
Yes. A care plan prepared during a telehealth consultation by an AHPRA-registered GP is identical in effect to one prepared in a physical clinic — it unlocks the exact same Medicare-subsidised psychology sessions.
How many psychology sessions does a mental health care plan give me?
Eligible patients can access up to 10 individual Medicare-subsidised sessions per calendar year under the Better Access initiative.
Do I need a referral to get a mental health care plan?
No. The GP is the referral point. You book directly with a GP, who assesses you and creates the plan. You don't need to see anyone else first.
Is it really bulk billed?
At NewTeleDoc Medical, eligible Medicare card holders can receive a bulk-billed mental health care plan — meaning $0 out of pocket for the consultation. Eligibility rules apply, and the doctor will confirm yours during booking.
Start With a Conversation
The hardest step is often the first one. Book a bulk-billed mental health care plan consultation with an AHPRA-registered doctor.
Check Eligibility & Book Your Mental Health Plan