What is a Mental Health Care Plan?

A Mental Health Care Plan is a structured plan developed collaboratively between you and your general practitioner (GP). It identifies your mental health needs, sets clear treatment objectives, and provides access to Medicare rebates for psychological therapy sessions, making professional care more accessible and affordable.

Step-by-Step: How to Obtain Your Mental Health Care Plan

1. Schedule an Appointment with Your GP: Begin by booking an appointment specifically to discuss mental health concerns. This signals the need for an extended consultation, giving you sufficient time to explore your situation thoroughly.

2. Discuss Openly and Honestly: Approach this meeting with openness. Your GP will assess your mental health, asking about your emotional state, symptoms, stressors, and the impact on your daily life. Clear communication here helps shape a plan that genuinely addresses your needs.

3. Assessment and Diagnosis: Based on your conversation, your GP may formally diagnose a mental health condition such as anxiety, depression, or adjustment difficulties. This diagnosis provides the necessary basis for your MHCP.

4. Develop the Mental Health Care Plan: Together, you will outline treatment goals and strategies, including recommended therapy modalities and supports. Your GP will then prepare the MHCP, detailing these objectives and actions.

5. Referral to a Psychologist: Your GP will typically refer you to a psychologist who aligns with your needs and treatment goals. With the MHCP, you become eligible for Medicare rebates for up to 10 psychological sessions per calendar year (with possible extensions under exceptional circumstances).

After Your Appointment: What Next?

Once your plan is in place, you can book your first session with your psychologist. Your psychologist will collaborate closely with you, building on the goals outlined in your MHCP, offering therapy tailored to your unique circumstances and aspirations.

Renewing and Reviewing Your MHCP

Regular review appointments with your GP help assess your progress, adjust your goals, and extend your plan as needed. Reviews typically occur after the first six sessions and periodically thereafter.

Embracing the Journey

Taking the step to obtain a Mental Health Care Plan is an act of courage and self-compassion. It is recognition of your inner resilience and a commitment to deeper psychological exploration and wellbeing.

At Nenya, we're here to support you through every step of this journey, providing thoughtful, innovative, and empathetic psychological care aligned closely with your values and life goals.

You are never alone in this exploration.