Can you get a mental health plan via telehealth?

Overview

In Australia, you can seek mental health assistance without leaving your home. By scheduling a bulk-billed telehealth consultation, your GP can develop a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP) that connects you with psychologists, counsellors, and other specialists. These programs are part of Medicare’s Better Access initiative¹, offering affordable avenues for care to Australians.

What does a mental health care plan include?

A Mental Health Treatment Plan is a comprehensive support program crafted by your GP. It consists of:

• Assessment: An evaluation of your mental health and general well-being.
• Goals: Specific treatment objectives tailored to fit your individual needs.
• Referrals: Connections to psychologists, counsellors, or psychiatrists.
• Rebates: Availability of Medicare rebates for up to 10 sessions annually (6 sessions followed by four after a GP reassessment).
• Follow-up: Routine check-ins to monitor your progress and make adjustments to your plan.

Steps to obtain a mental health plan online

Acquiring a Mental Health Care Plan online is quite easy:

• Schedule a bulk-billed telehealth appointment with a telehealth service like Hola Health.
• Discuss your symptoms and goals with your GP during a secure video call.
• Receive your mental health care plan, enabling you to begin therapy sessions with rebates.

Can a telehealth GP prescribe antidepressants?

If appropriate, your telehealth GP can prescribe or modify antidepressant medication. Prescriptions are sent electronically to your local pharmacy, allowing you to pick them up immediately. You can be assured that telehealth GPs adhere to the same Australian prescribing standards as traditional doctors, ensuring that your care remains safe and professional.

How to approach your GP about mental health

It might feel intimidating to discuss mental health, but GPs are equipped to listen and assist. Here’s how to prepare:

• List any symptoms you experience, such as anxiety, sleep disturbances, or mood fluctuations.
• Be candid about how your mental health impacts your daily life.
• Clearly request a Mental Health Plan.
• If you’re feeling anxious, use a simple script:

“Doctor, I’ve been feeling anxious and having difficulty at work. I’d like to discuss a Mental Health Plan and potential support options.” 

What is the duration of a mental health plan?

A Mental Health Treatment Plan generally remains valid for 12 months. You can avail yourself of up to 10 rebate sessions each year. After your initial six sessions, you’ll need to revisit your GP for a review before accessing the final 4.

Is there a connection between workplace stress and a mental health care plan?

Yes. Stress from work, burnout, or anxiety may be related to a mental health issue that justifies a plan. Many Australians pursue Mental Health Care Plans due to challenges that affect both their personal and professional lives. Telehealth facilitates early intervention for these concerns and, if necessary, allows for medical certificates to support time off.

Next steps: schedule a telehealth appointment

If you’re prepared to take the initial step, telehealth simplifies access to professional assistance. With Hola Health, you can:

• Schedule a bulk-billed telehealth GP consultation from anywhere in Australia
• Talk about your mental health confidentially through a secure video call
• Get a customised Mental Health Treatment Plan and referrals
• Begin utilising Medicare-rebated psychology sessions

Begin your journey now by scheduling a telehealth appointment with Hola Health and take the first step towards enhanced mental well-being.

What is the cost of a Mental Health Plan through telehealth?

Amira, a registered psychotherapist in Canberra, says ‘If the consultation is bulk-billed and you are eligible, there won’t be any out-of-pocket expenses under Medicare. Otherwise, a gap fee may apply depending on the GP service.’ 

How Hola Health Can Help

At Hola Health, we make accessing mental health support easy and stress-free. Our online doctors can assess your needs through a secure telehealth consultation and, if appropriate, provide a personalised Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP). This plan can give you access to Medicare-subsidised sessions with psychologists, counsellors, or other allied health professionals. We also offer follow-up care, online prescriptions if required, and flexible appointment times—so you can focus on your wellbeing without the barriers of travel or long waiting periods. With Hola Health, professional mental health care is just a click away.

Conclusion

A Mental Health Treatment Plan is one of the easiest ways for Australians to obtain affordable, systematic support for their mental health. Thanks to telehealth, you can now access this plan from home, with bulk-billed GP appointments and Medicare-rebated psychology sessions. If Stress, anxiety, or low mood are impacting your daily activities, seeking help is an important first step.

FAQs

Who qualifies for a Mental Health Plan?

Any individual diagnosed with a mental health condition, such as anxiety, depression, or stress-related disorders.

How many sessions with a psychologist are funded?

Up to 10 Medicare-subsidised sessions annually (in two groups of 6 and 4, following a GP review).

Can I obtain a plan online if I reside in rural Australia?

Yes. Telehealth GPs offer services across the country, which is particularly beneficial for those in regional locations.

Is telehealth as effective as visiting a GP in person?

Yes. The level of care, available rebates, and overall process remain the same; it simply offers more convenience.