The fee for an individual session with a psychologist is between $140 and $150 for each 50-55 minute session. This is well below the recommended fee set by the Australian Psychological Society of $192.
Assistance with fees
All Psychologists are registered with Medicare to provide psychological therapy. This means that if you are referred by your GP for a diagnosable psychological problem you are eligible for a subsidy of between $75 and $110 for each therapy session. Your GP will need to conduct an assessment to determine if you meet the criteria and can initially refer you for six sessions. Many GPs require a longer appointment time to conduct the assessment. If you are eligible you can then be referred for up to twelve subsidised sessions per calendar year under the Medicare system.
If you would like to claim a rebate from your private health fund, please specify the fund you belong to when booking your first appointment to ensure that the Psychologist you see is registered as a service provider with your fund. Rebates vary so please check with your health fund directly for individual rates.
Some Psychologists are registered with various Employee Assistance Programs (EAP’s). Under this system, fees are covered by the EAP service provider. Psychologists are also able to see clients with work-related injuries under Workcover legislation.
