Introduction. Telehealth psychology gives Australians access to qualified psychologists without the travel, using secure video or phone. This article explains how it works under Medicare’s Better Access program, what you can expect in a session, who benefits most, and how to get started. You will learn the practical steps to organise a referral, how rebates apply, and the simple tech setup that keeps appointments smooth and private. We will also cover common barriers, such as internet issues or confusion about eligibility, and how to avoid them. Whether you live in a regional town, juggle shift work, care for a child, or prefer support from home, telehealth psychology can bring timely, evidence based care to you.
How telehealth psychology works in Australia
Telehealth psychology delivers the same registered care you would receive in a clinic, but by secure video or phone. You can see a psychologist privately, or use Medicare rebates through Better Access. To claim rebates, visit a GP or psychiatrist for a Mental Health Treatment Plan and a referral. Referrals usually cover up to six sessions, followed by a review for further sessions, up to 10 subsidised individual sessions per calendar year. Appointments typically run 50 minutes, with clear consent, privacy agreements, and a plan for emergencies. Clinics confirm fees, any gap payment, and how to send your referral. You only need a quiet space, a device with camera and microphone, and a stable connection.
- Ask your GP for a Mental Health Treatment Plan and referral, then email these to the clinic before your first session to activate rebates.
- Test your device, camera, and audio, and have a phone backup in case your internet drops mid session.
What to expect in your first sessions
Before your first appointment you will complete intake and consent forms. The psychologist verifies your identity, confirms privacy rules, and checks that telehealth suits your needs. The first session focuses on your goals, background, risks, and strengths, then outlines a treatment plan using approaches such as CBT, ACT, or focused psychological strategies. You agree on frequency, homework, and how progress will be measured. Many clinicians use brief tools like the K10, PHQ-9, or GAD-7 to track change, alongside your personal goals. After the initial set of sessions, your GP review decides whether to continue, adjust goals, or discharge. Clear expectations, regular feedback, and scheduled reviews keep care accountable and focused.
| Item | What it is | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Better Access referral | GP or psychiatrist creates a plan and refers you for up to six sessions | Unlocks Medicare rebates and sets up a structured review |
| Telehealth mode | Secure video or phone with consent and identity checks | Flexible access without compromising clinical standards |
| Outcome review | Short measures and goal check at set intervals | Tracks progress and guides next treatment steps |
Getting started, a simple workflow
Shortlist a registered psychologist who offers telehealth and fits your needs, for example anxiety, perinatal, or trauma care. Call the clinic to confirm fees, gap cost, and available modes, video or phone. Book a GP appointment for a Mental Health Treatment Plan and referral, then send both to the clinic so rebates apply from session one. Complete intake forms, note your goals, and prepare a private space with headphones and a charger. Join on time, agree on goals and safety steps, and schedule your next appointment before you leave. Keep a brief log of mood or triggers between sessions, share it at reviews, and ask your GP for the follow up referral when you reach the initial session limit.
Common barriers and how to sidestep them
Poor internet can disrupt therapy, so position yourself near your router, use a wired connection if possible, or switch to a phone call if video fails. Privacy worries are common, so wear headphones, sit with your back to a wall, and ask your clinician about platform security and how notes are stored. Confusion about rebates causes surprise bills, so clarify fees, item numbers, and how many sessions remain before each booking. Telehealth is not suitable for immediate risk or crisis, so agree on a safety plan, local emergency contacts, and how your clinician will respond if they have concerns. If time zones or daylight savings affect you, ask for appointment reminders that show your local time.
Conclusion. Telehealth psychology in Australia combines clinical quality with practical access. With a Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP, you can claim Medicare rebates for up to 10 individual sessions each year, delivered by secure video or phone. The process is simple, choose a suitable psychologist, confirm fees and rebates, prepare your space, and agree on goals and review points. Telehealth helps rural residents, busy professionals, parents, students, and anyone who values care without the commute. Your next step, book a GP appointment for a plan and referral, contact a clinic to confirm telehealth details, and schedule your first session. Small, consistent steps add up, and telehealth makes it easier to take them.
Image by: Polina Zimmerman
