How to Claim Medicare Rebates for Online Therapy in Australia (2026 Guide)
If you’ve been thinking about seeing a psychologist but aren’t sure whether Medicare applies to online sessions – or how the whole process works – this guide is for you.
The short version: yes, Medicare rebates can apply to online individual therapy sessions with a registered psychologist in Australia. Here’s what you need to know.
Step One: Get a Mental Health Care Plan from Your GP
To access Medicare rebates for psychology sessions, you first need a referral from your GP in the form of a Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP). This is a plan your GP puts together in consultation with you, which outlines your mental health needs and refers you to a psychologist or other mental health professional.
To get one, book a longer appointment with your GP and let them know when you book that you’d like to discuss your mental health – this allows your GP to set aside enough time to assess your needs and advise about the best next steps. Your GP will ask some questions about what you’re experiencing and, if they agree a MHCP is appropriate, will prepare the plan and provide a referral.
You do not need to be in crisis to request a MHCP. GPs can provide them for a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties and stress.
How Many Sessions Does Medicare Cover?
Under a Mental Health Care Plan, Medicare currently covers up to 10 individual psychology sessions per calendar year. The standard initial referral covers 6 sessions, after which your GP can provide a further referral for an additional 4 sessions if needed, following a review.
What Is the Medicare Rebate Amount?
The rebate amount depends on the type of registered professional you see. For a clinical psychologist, the Medicare rebate is currently $141.85 per individual session under a Mental Health Care Plan (increasing to $149.05 on 1 July 2026). For a registered psychologist, the rebate is currently $98.97 per session (increasing to $101.55 on 1 July 2026). These rebates are typically adjusted slightly each financial year.
At Connections Count, our fees vary depending on the therapist and service. The gap between our fee and the Medicare rebate will vary accordingly. Our administration team can give you the exact figures – just get in touch and ask.
Does Medicare Apply to Online Sessions?
Yes. Since the expansion of telehealth Medicare items, eligible psychology sessions delivered via video conferencing are covered in the same way as in-person sessions. All of our sessions at Connections Count are delivered online, which means you can access individual therapy from wherever you are in Australia – your home, your office, or wherever works for you – and still be eligible for your Medicare rebate, provided you have a valid MHCP referral.
Do Medicare Rebates Apply to Couples or Family Therapy?
Medicare rebates under a Mental Health Care Plan apply to individual psychology sessions only – not to couples or family therapy. However, private health insurance may provide a rebate for some of these services, depending on your level of cover. It’s worth checking with your fund directly.
What About DVA?
If you hold a DVA Gold or White Card, you may be eligible for fully funded psychology sessions through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, with no gap payment required. Please contact us directly and we’ll help you work out whether this applies to your situation.
How to Get Started
Getting started is straightforward. Visit your GP for a Mental Health Care Plan and referral, then meet our therapists at Connections Count and book directly from their profile pages. If you’d like to talk through costs, rebates or which therapist might be the right fit before you book, you’re also welcome to contact us and our admin team will be glad to help.
We offer therapy for individuals, couples and families — all online, all across Australia. Experienced, evidence-based, and genuinely warm.
The support you’ve been looking for exists. It’s also more accessible than you might think.
