What is a Mental Health Care Plan ?

Accessing mental health support is an important step, and a Mental Health Care Plan can make it more affordable. Here's a simple guide to how they work in Australia.

What is a Mental Health Care Plan?

A Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) is a document prepared by your General Practitioner (GP) or a psychiatrist. It's designed to help you access subsidised mental health services from qualified professionals, such as psychologists, social workers, or occupational therapists.

Essentially, it's a referral that allows you to receive Medicare rebates for up to 10 individual and 10 group psychological therapy sessions in a calendar year.

How to Get an MHCP

1. Book a Longer Appointment with Your GP: It's important to book a dedicated, longer consultation with your usual doctor. This allows enough time to discuss your mental health concerns thoroughly.

2. Discuss Your Mental Health: Talk openly with your GP about how you've been feeling, any challenges you're facing, and how your mental health is impacting your daily life.

3. Your GP Creates the Plan: If your GP determines that you would benefit from mental health support, they will prepare an MHCP for you. This plan will outline your needs, goals, and the type of mental health services recommended.

4. Get Your Referral: Your GP will also provide you with a referral to a mental health supports like MTM Health