Navigating the mental health system can feel daunting, especially when you’re already dealing with difficult symptoms. The good news is that seeing a psychiatrist in Australia is a straightforward process once you know the steps. This guide walks you through everything — from your first GP visit to claiming a Medicare rebate and booking a telehealth appointment.
Step 1: See Your GP
The first step to seeing a psychiatrist is booking an appointment with your general practitioner (GP). In Australia, you need a GP referral to see a psychiatrist under Medicare. Your GP will discuss your symptoms, take a history, and determine whether a psychiatric referral is appropriate.
It’s helpful to be open and honest with your GP about what you’ve been experiencing. You might want to jot down your symptoms beforehand, how long you’ve had them, and any family history of mental illness. There’s no need to worry about being “judged” — GPs see mental health concerns every day and are there to help.
Step 2: The Referral
If your GP decides a psychiatrist is appropriate, they’ll write a referral letter. This letter typically outlines your symptoms, relevant medical history, and what your GP is asking the psychiatrist to assess or treat. You can be referred to a specific psychiatrist by name, or your GP can give you a general referral.
A GP referral to a psychiatrist is valid for 12 months from the first consultation (for indefinite referrals) or for the period specified. You’ll need a current referral to claim a Medicare rebate.
Step 3: The Mental Health Treatment Plan
If your GP suspects you have a mental health condition, they may also prepare a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP) — sometimes called a Better Access plan or GP Mental Health Treatment Plan. This is a structured document that outlines your mental health needs and the treatment your GP recommends.
While a Mental Health Treatment Plan is primarily used for accessing Medicare-subsidised psychology sessions, having one on file can also be helpful context for your psychiatrist. Your GP may prepare this at the same appointment or at a separate, longer consultation.
Step 4: Book Your Psychiatrist Appointment
Once you have your referral, you can book an appointment with a psychiatrist. With telehealth psychiatry, you can see a psychiatrist from anywhere in Australia without travelling to a clinic. Simply send your referral to the practice, and they’ll arrange a consultation time that suits you.
You can book an appointment or send a referral through our contact page. For GPs referring a patient, we also accept referrals directly — just get in touch.
Step 5: Claim Your Medicare Rebate
With a valid GP referral, you can claim a Medicare rebate for your psychiatrist consultation. The rebate amount depends on the type and length of consultation. You’ll pay the full fee upfront, and then either claim the rebate through Medicare (via the Express Plus Medicare app, online, or at a service centre) or, if the practice offers it, receive the rebate on the spot.
For a detailed breakdown of fees and rebates, see our fees & Medicare page, or read our article on the cost of seeing a psychiatrist.
The Telehealth Option
Telehealth has made accessing psychiatric care easier than ever. Rather than travelling to an appointment, you can see a psychiatrist via secure video call from your own home. This is particularly valuable for people in regional, rural and remote areas, as well as those with mobility, transport or scheduling challenges.
To learn more about how telehealth psychiatry works — including the technology, privacy and what to expect — read our guide on how telehealth psychiatry works, or visit our online psychiatry page.
What If I Don’t Have a Regular GP?
If you don’t have a regular GP, you can visit any general practice. Many clinics offer same-day or next-day appointments. Some online GP services can also provide referrals for telehealth psychiatry. The key is to find a GP you feel comfortable with, as they’ll be your first point of contact for ongoing care.
Ready to get started? Contact us to book an appointment or submit a referral, and our team will be in touch within one business day.