REFERRALS
It is not necessary to have a referral to see a psychologist.

PRIVATE HEALTH INSURANCE REBATES
To determine if you are covered for psychology claims with your private health fund you will need to check with your health fund directly. If you are eligible it is likely that your rebate can be processed using HICAPS whereby you would only be required to pay the gap fee at your appointment. Alternatively, you can pay the fee and claim from your health fund at your convenience.

MEDICARE REFERRALS:
Mental Health Care Plans
You may be eligible under Medicare’s Better Access program for individual counselling that relates to a mental health issue. To determine your eligibility you can visit your GP to seek a mental health care plan referral. It is advisable to discuss your intention to seek this plan with the GP receptionist, as you may need to book a longer consultation. Under this program your GP can refer you for an initial 6 sessions with the possibility of up to 10 sessions per calendar year. These consultations are only for individual sessions and not for couples counselling. However, you may be able to have your partner in attendance for some of your sessions. For more information: Medicare Fact Sheet

Chronic Disease Management
This program provides a team care approach to the health care management of those with a chronic medical condition. This program uses a Team Care Arrangement with at least two allied health professionals involved in providing services. Your GP will discuss your eligibility and may provide a referral under this program.

Pregnancy Support Counselling
These sessions are available to a woman who is concerned about a current pregnancy or a pregnancy that occurred within the past twelve months. Up to three non-directive pregnancy support counselling services per pregnancy are available with a GP referral.

Workers Compensation
If you have confirmation that your claim for psychological services has been approved by Q-Comp your sessions may be directly billed to them. Often your GP will provide support in lodging a claim with Q-Comp along with a referral to see a psychologist regarding the injury.  To read more about this follow this link: Work Cover QLD

OTHER:
Department of Veteran Affairs (DVA)
If you have a DVA Gold card your sessions will be Bulk Billed if you have a current referral from your doctor, medical specialist, hospital discharge planner or the VVCS – Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service.  If you hold a DVA White card you can check if you are eligible by calling 1800 555 254 or checking the link below for further information.

To find out more about your eligibility for services through DVA call 1800 555 254 or visit their website or download a factsheet

Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service (VVCS)
You may refer yourself directly to the VVCS and do not need a DVA Gold or White Card for VVCS services. A range of counselling services are available to veterans and their families from VVCS. You can contact VVCS by phoning 1800 011 046 or download a factsheet