Mel is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, recognised by the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW). This association recommends an hourly rate of $270 for the provision of focused psychological services. Please find below my fees which are generally under the recommended rate.
Modes of counselling & coaching
Online telehealth appointments available worldwide.
Send enquiry for more details via the 'contact' page.
$170 for a 50-60minute session.
Medicare rebate: $85.20 (Aus only).
$250 for couple sessions. There are no Medicare rebates available for couples therapy sessions.
Face-to-face appointments offered in Murwillumbah, NSW Australia.
$180 for a 50-60minute session
Medicare rebate: $85.20 (Aus only).
$260 for couple sessions. There are no Medicare rebates available for couples therapy sessions.
How to access Mental Health Care Plans (MHCP) and Medicare Rebates with an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker in Australia?
If you’re seeking mental health support in Australia, working with an accredited mental health social worker can be an effective option.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand how to access a Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) and claim Medicare rebates:
Step 1: Book an Appointment with your GP
During this appointment, discuss your mental health concerns and the reasons you’re seeking support.
Step 2: Assessment for a Mental Health Care Plan
Your GP will assess your mental health needs. If they believe you would benefit from psychological support, they can prepare a Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP). This plan typically entitles you to **up to 10 individual sessions** per calendar year with a mental health professional. Request that your GP email a copy of your care plan to your chosen mental health professional. It is also helpful to bring a hardcopy with you to your first appointment.
Step 3: Choose Your Accredited Mental Health Social Worker
Once you have your MHCP, you can select an accredited mental health social worker to work with. If you have someone specific in mind, mention this to your GP, who can highlight this in your referral.
Step 4: Attend Your Appointments
With your MHCP in hand, schedule sessions with your social worker. These sessions can be conducted in-person or via Telehealth, depending on your preference.
Step 5: Claiming Medicare Rebates
After each session, your accredited mental health social worker can help you process your Medicare rebate. If you have a valid MHCP, you’ll be eligible for a rebate of $85.20 for 50min sessions. This rebate will typically be credited to your bank account within 24-48 hours after your appointment.
Important Considerations
- If you opt to self-refer to a social worker without an MHCP, you won’t be eligible for Medicare rebates.
- Ensure that your MHCP is submitted to the social worker prior to your first appointment to qualify for rebates.
- Accessing mental health support through an accredited mental health social worker and utilizing Medicare rebates can significantly help manage the costs associated with therapy. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out to your GP or mental health professional. Your mental health is important, and support is readily available.
AFTER HOURS APPOINTMENTS
Appointments for individual therapy after 5pm on weekdays or weekends - will incur an additional $20 fee.
WHO DO I CONTACT IF A LOVED ONE OR I ARE EXPERIECNING A MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS?
Me and Mamahood does NOT provide emergency or crisis mental health support services.
For urgent mental health concerns or other emergencies please contact the appropriate emergency services, listed below:
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Emergency (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 000
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Lifeline: 13 11 14
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Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636
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Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467
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PANDA: 1300 726 306
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Head to Health: 1800 595 212
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Acute Care Team Qld: 1300 642 255
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Mental Health line NSW 1800 011 511
PAYMENT OPTIONS:
The preferred way to process your payment is via STRIPE. STRIPE processes a debit/credit card payment electronically and securely through our secure database.
The full consultation fee will be collected at the time of your appointment. Medicare rebates can be processed on the spot and paid directly into the bank account you have registered with Medicare.
*Please note we do not accept cash, American Express or Diners.
Deposits - For all online bookings a $50 deposit is required when securing your appointment time and this will be processed at the time of booking your appointment through the Client Portal. This deposit will be forfeited for a late cancellation (less than 24hours).