costs to see a psychologist ?

[CraigC]

i have recently been diagnosed with anxiety and major depression but i am financially not well off

what is the costs involved? how can i get professional help without having to get a loan?

i know it sounds stupid but i dont know where to start

[geoff]

Hello CraigC, I've commented on a good reply you made to someone, excuse me for forgetting which one it was, however if you go to your doctors they will be able to give you a 'mental health plan', which entitles you to 10 free sessions to see a psychologist per year, so if for instance, if your last session ends on December 30th, then on January 1st you are entitled to another 10 free sessions.

Sometimes if you have seen a psychologist who you have liked, then maybe you might be able to negotiate with them to start bulk billing you, even if the session is shorter than it was before.

It's good to try and stay with them rather than having to see a new psych because then you have to start from the beginning, even though your files might have been sent over to them.

The cost to see a psychologist may work on a sliding scale fee, which means their fee will depend on your income level, but it changes for each psych, $70 up to $250 and even some may charge more.

Go and see your doctor first of all.

Geoff.

[FringeDweller]

Hi CraigC

Are working part time or volunteering anywhere? Some places have Employee Assistance Programs that you can access without employer knowing and I think you can get about 3 sessions covered. I used to volunteer with a national charity and they had this. It meant I had 13 sessions (10 on the mental health care plan, 3 EAP) covered.

Google bulk bill psychologist your area and hopefully that will give you a starting point for phoning/emailing, explain your financial situation and they'll let you know what they can offer. Like Geoff said prices can vary, but there is usually some option for us on low incomes.

[romantic_thi3f]

Hi CraigC,

Thanks for your post.

Your question is not silly at all and thanks for asking it!

Unfortunately, the MHCP (Mental Health care plan) does not always cover the entire fee for the psychologist. It entirely depends on what the psychologist wants to charge. Fees can vary widely.

I think the best first step is to see your Doctor. They generally are aware of a few psychologists within the area and can give you an idea of what to expect and what the rebate might be (if any). If the rebate is too high, you can go hunting - generally typing in "bulk bill psychologist + (your location)" can give you some results.

Hope this gives you a good first step. Feel free to post again if you need to and we can look at some other ideas!