Affordable Psychologist Melbourne

Quality mental health care doesn’t have to be out of reach. Explore bulk billing, Medicare rebates, and low-cost options at The Talk Shop.

Making Psychology Accessible in Melbourne

Cost should not be a barrier to mental health support. At The Talk Shop, we offer a range of funding options — including Medicare rebates and bulk billing for eligible clients where available — so you can access quality psychology care at a more manageable cost.

Our psychologists are registered with Medicare and AHPRA, and we offer appointments across Melbourne CBD, Reservoir, Wheelers Hill / Brandon Park, Mooroolbark and via telehealth.

How Medicare Rebates Work

Under the Better Access to Mental Health Care initiative, Australians can access up to 10 individual psychology sessions per calendar year with a Medicare rebate.

What you need to access a rebate

  • A valid referral pathway, commonly a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP) from your GP
  • A referral to an eligible psychologist
  • A valid Medicare card

Medicare also recognises some psychiatrist and paediatrician referral pathways. Once you have your referral, book your first appointment and bring your referral letter. We can help with Medicare claiming.

Bulk Billing at The Talk Shop

We offer bulk billing (no gap payment) for eligible concession card holders and certain other clients at selected locations. When bulk billed, your Medicare rebate covers the full session cost — you pay nothing out of pocket.

Am I eligible for bulk billing?

Bulk billing is assessed at the time of booking. Priority is given to:

  • Healthcare Card or Pension Concession Card holders
  • Children and adolescents under 18
  • Clients experiencing financial hardship

Psychology Fees & Funding Options

Session TypeStandard FeeMedicare RebateYour Gap
Registered psychologist (50+ min)$225$101.55$123.45
Clinical psychologist (50+ min)$285$149.05$135.95
Bulk billed (eligible clients)Bulk billed where availableFull eligible rebate assigned$0
WorkCover / workers compensation (approved claims)Billed to insurer or schemeUsually $0 for eligible approved sessions
NDIS (plan/self-managed)Relevant NDIS rate or agreed feeVaries

Medicare rebate figures are current from 1 July 2026 for common Better Access psychology items. Eligibility, item numbers and out-of-pocket costs should be confirmed at booking. See our full session fees and pricing.

Other Ways to Reduce the Cost

  • NDIS: Plan-managed and self-managed NDIS participants may be able to use funding for psychology support where it fits their plan.
  • WorkCover / workers compensation: If your mental health concern is work-related, sessions may be funded when your claim and treatment are approved by the relevant insurer or scheme.
  • EAP: Many employers offer an Employee Assistance Programme — ask your HR team for a referral.
  • Private Health Insurance: Some extras policies cover psychology sessions; check with your insurer.
  • Sliding scale: Contact us to discuss your situation — we’ll do our best to find a workable arrangement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a referral to see a psychologist?

You can book directly without a referral, but to access your Medicare rebate you’ll need a Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP first. We recommend making a GP appointment before your first session to maximise your benefit.

How many sessions are covered by Medicare?

Under Better Access, eligible clients can claim Medicare benefits for up to 10 individual and 10 group mental health treatment services per calendar year. The initial referral can cover up to 6 sessions, with review by the referring practitioner required for further sessions.

What if I can’t afford the gap fee?

Please speak to our reception team. We offer bulk billing to eligible concession card holders and assess hardship cases individually. We’d rather find a way to help than have you go without support.

Is telehealth covered by Medicare?

Eligible Better Access telehealth services can attract Medicare rebates where referral and item requirements are met.

Book an Affordable Psychology Session

Call us or book online to discuss funding options. Bulk billing assessed at time of booking for eligible clients.

Locations: Melbourne CBD • Reservoir • Wheelers Hill / Brandon Park • Mooroolbark • Telehealth