The short answer
Getting a Mental Health Treatment Plan
Book a longer appointment with your usual GP (or the practice you're registered with through MyMedicare) and say it's for a Mental Health Treatment Plan. Your GP talks with you about how you've been, prepares the plan and writes a separate referral to a psychologist. Send both to MeHelp: we confirm the same day and match you with a psychologist, usually within 2 to 5 days.
A look inside
From the guide
Before you book
Choose the right GP
Since 1 November 2025, Medicare only pays for sessions when the plan and referral come from the right place.
Option 1
Your usual GP or practice
The doctor or practice that has provided most of your care in the past 12 months, or is likely to in the next 12.
Option 2
Your MyMedicare practice
If you've registered with a practice through MyMedicare, a GP at that practice can prepare your plan.
Three steps at the GP
Book a longer appointment
Tell reception it's for a Mental Health Treatment Plan. A standard short appointment often isn't enough time.
Talk about what's going on
Your GP will ask how you've been feeling, how long it's been going on and what you'd like help with. They may use a short questionnaire.
Leave with two documents
The plan, and a separate signed referral to a psychologist. The plan on its own is not a referral.
Common questions
What people ask
Is a Mental Health Treatment Plan the same as a Mental Health Care Plan?
Yes. The name changed in November 2025. Older paperwork with the old name is still valid if it was prepared correctly.
Can I get a plan through a telehealth GP?
Only if that GP or practice is your usual one or your MyMedicare practice, and you've generally seen them face to face in the last 12 months.
Do I have to tell my GP everything?
No. Share what you're comfortable with. Your GP needs enough to understand what's going on and whether a plan suits you.
What if my GP says I'm not eligible?
You can still see a MeHelp psychologist privately for $180 a session, with no plan or referral. Call 1300 323 411 and we'll talk you through it.
Evidence
Sources we checked
- Better Access redesign from 1 November 2025 (fact sheet)
- MBS Online, note AN.0.78
- MyMedicare, Department of Health, Disability and Ageing
- Better Access telehealth FAQs (Nov 2025)
Last reviewed 21 October 2026 by Phillipa Brown, registered psychologist and founder of MeHelp. This page is general information, not individual advice.
