Bulk billed counselling services are not available at Life Supports,
however you can read about Medicare rebates, private fees, private health and what bulk billing actually means here.
Unfortunately Life Supports’ bulk billing services are at maximum capacity and no longer available for new clients, as is the case across the industry currently.
There are many psychologists and counsellors instead offering affordable cost options with varying out-of-pocket expenses, and no waiting times. Please call our team on 1300 735 030 to discuss your situation and find suitable options.
For more information generally about fees, rebates and Medicare, please continue reading.
Bulk-billing means that your therapist receives a direct payment from Medicare for the service they provide, and there is no out-of-pocket expenses for you. Essentially, Medicare pays the bill on your behalf in this circumstance.
For services to be bulk-billed, you will need a Mental Healthcare Plan from your doctor referring you to a practice that has bulk-billing available, and a Medicare card.
There are currently no bulk-billing options available at Life Supports Counselling, so if you require this, talk to your doctor about your options.
For free counselling services, typically you will need to go through a government funded or not-for-profit organisation. These services include charities, churches, community support groups, local councils, and various telephone hotlines.
Bulk billing is a much more common service for GPs than it is for psychological therapy and counselling. To book an appointment with a bulk-billing therapist, please bear in mind that longer wait times may be necessary, and low/no income eligibility criteria are often required.
More often, Medicare helps to cover a large portion of the therapy service cost. Mental health professionals set their own fees at their practice and there are many more services with a small co-payment or out-of-pocket contribution that you’ll pay.
As compared to bulk billing services, Medicare-subsidised appointments tend to be much more convenient to book and appointments are generally available within 48 hours, including afterhours and on weekends.
Your out-of-pocket contribution can vary according to the professional you choose to see. Finding a therapist who is the right fit will be most important, and you can discuss your circumstances with one of our intake consultants on 1300 735 030 for assistance and information regarding the relevant fee structures.
If your therapist offers a Medicare rebate, you will require a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP to be eligible. Please note: Due to the current COVID-19 crisis, GPs are now able to complete a Mental Health Care Plan referral with you over the phone- all you need to do is call your local GP clinic, and request a telehealth appointment.
Some private health insurance funds provide rebates for psychology and counselling services, depending on whether you have an eligible policy and level of cover. Many of our therapists are registered with various private health insurers, and for some this is a preferred alternative to bulk billing services or Medicare assisted options.
All private health providers have different policies and rules of eligibility in order to access rebates, so please check your level of cover and the requirements or qualifications needed for selecting a suitable therapist first. You can discuss your individual circumstances with one of our intake consultants by calling 1300 735 030.
Many therapists set their own fees and do not use rebate systems. Instead, these therapy services are completely private and often charge a reduced rate in lieu of using government-assisted rebates.
Therapists with private fees can often offer the maximum level of convenience with no waiting period, flexible appointment times including evenings and weekends and local availability.
If you would like assistance or advice about these billing procedures or appointment making, you can call our intake team on 1300 735 030 or contact us here to leave a message.
Life Supports provides counselling services in the following areas. Learn more about common problems and find practitioners that can support you today.
There is a variety of financial support you may be eligible for. Don’t let money be a barrier to getting the support you need.
Review the typical costs that you will expect to pay for your counselling appointments
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Some of our therapists are registered with private health insurers, so you're able to claim back part of your sessions.
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Getting a Mental Health Care Plan from your doctor can help reduce costs too.
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A straightforward guide for GPs and medical professionals helping their clients access services.
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Appointments currently available
Open 8am to 8pm weekdays and 9am to 5:30pm weekends