top of page

I've used up my Medicare psychology sessions - now what?

Writer's picture: WellSpace PsychologyWellSpace Psychology

We are at that time of year when most people have exhausted all available Medicare funding for psychological therapy. Yet there's 12 weeks left in the year, meaning there's 12 weeks left until more sessions can be obtained.


The 10-session model was a financially-driven decision from the federal government; it was not clinically indicated. That means there is no evidence to suggest you should only need 10 sessions of therapy. In fact, for most people 10 sessions is not enough. It's best to think of Medicare-funded sessions as financial assistance on your first 10 sessions of the calendar year.


The Australian Psychological Society strongly believes the 10 sessions offered under Better Access to Mental Health Care are not enough, and is continuing advocacy efforts for increased funding. In the meantime, let's explore what you can do to keep your mental health in check after your 10 sessions are up.


Check eligibility criteria for alternative funding

Most people access therapy using a Mental Health Treatment Plan (i.e., funding via the Better Access to Mental Health Care scheme), but this is not the only available funding for psychological support. Other Medicare-funded options include:

  • Chronic Disease Management Plan

  • Pregnancy Support Counselling

  • Allied health services for people of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent

  • Eating Disorder Plan

  • Group therapy under the Better Access to Mental Health Care scheme

Did you know you don't need a referral to see a Psychologist? You can also continue with your therapy in a privately funded capacity. Depending on your level of cover, you may also receive a rebate for psychological therapy via your private health insurance.


Engage in self-directed work

There are plenty of resources available to you that may serve as an adjunct to therapy, or to tie you over if you're taking a break for financial reasons.

Teach Me About Attachment: Online Course by WellSpace Psychology

For example:


Embrace the break

Lean into these 12 weeks as a testing ground for the skills you learnt in therapy this year. Monitor yourself and note down areas that require further work when you return to therapy.





WellSpace Psychology

Studio 17, First Floor, 105 Victoria Street, Fitzroy/Ngár-go, Victoria, 3065

t: 0481 591 515


64 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


Phone

0481 591 515

Fax

(03) 9960 0959

Email

WellSpace Psychology Logo

We acknowledge that we work on the land of the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung and Bunurong peoples of the Kulin Nations.

We pay respect to elders, past, present and emerging. 

Australian Psychology Society logo
lgbti+ flag artwork
Autism spectrum infinity_awareness_symbol
indigenous flag

©2022 by WellSpace Psychology

At WellSpace, we connect clients with clinical and general psychologists, psychotherapists, counsellors, social workers, mental health specialists, and other allied health professionals. We offer face-to-face sessions in Melbourne and telehealth appointments Australia-wide. 

Anxiety/Depression 

Trauma & PTSD

Stress and burnout 

Neuro-affirming care 

Gender-affirming care 

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)

Schema Therapy

Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS)

bottom of page