Learn the steps, benefits, and support options available to help you access professional mental health care.
Looking after your mental health is just as important as caring for your physical wellbeing. In Western Australia, gaining access to mental health care is simpler than you might think. One of the most accessible ways to receive support is through a Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) via a referral from your GP. This plan can make psychological services more affordable, easier to understand and help you access the right support at the right time.
If you’re wondering how to get started, this guide will walk you through the process step‑by‑step.
What is a Mental Health Care Plan?
A Mental Health Care Plan is a document created by a General Practitioner (GP) that outlines your mental health needs and the support options available to you. It allows you to access Medicare‑subsidised sessions with mental health professionals such as psychologists, social workers, or .
You can see a mental health professional in Australia with or without a Mental Health Care Plan, but the cost difference is important to understand. Without a plan, you can still book privately with psychologists, counsellors, or other mental health providers, but you’ll usually pay the full fee yourself. A Mental Health Care Plan allows you to access Medicare rebates, which reduce the cost of eligible sessions.
Medicare is Australia’s public health insurance system, and it helps cover part of the cost of many essential health services, including some mental health treatments. While it doesn’t make appointments free, it does make support more affordable by reimbursing a portion of the fee directly to you or reducing what you pay upfront. You can learn more about Medicare here.
A Mental Health Care Plan is designed to help you:
- Understand your mental health concerns
- Set goals for your wellbeing
- Access professional support at an accessible cost via government supported healthcare programs
Who Can Get a Mental Health Care Plan?
Anyone in Western Australia who is experiencing mental health challenges may be eligible for a MHCP. This includes concerns such as stress, anxiety, low mood, grief, or other emotional difficulties. Many people will see a mental health professional at some stage in their life, to aid in maintaining their mental wellbeing.
You don’t need to be in crisis to ask for help. MHCPs are available for a wide range of mental health needs and seeing a mental health care professional is a very common and normal part of healthcare and general wellbeing.
How to Get a Mental Health Care Plan in Western Australia
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- Book an Appointment With Your GP
Start by booking a longer appointment with your doctor. A standard appointment may not give you enough time to discuss your concerns in detail.
When booking, you can say something like:
“I’d like to discuss my mental health and a Mental Health Care Plan.”
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- Talk Openly With Your GP
During your appointment, your GP will ask questions about how you’ve been feeling. This helps them understand your situation and determine whether a MHCP is appropriate.
You don’t need to have the “right words.” Just be honest about your experiences.
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- Your GP Creates the Plan
If a MHCP is suitable, your GP will prepare one with you. This may include:
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- A description of the current details of your mental health
- Your mental health goals
- Recommended treatment options
- A referral to a psychologist or mental health professional
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- Book Your First Appointment With a Mental Health Professional
Once you have completed this appointment with your GP, they will give you a referral to a mental health care facility. This may be an open referral that you can take anywhere, a specific referral based on your doctors’ suggestions, or a specific referral based on your preference, if you have a particular facility or professional in mind.
Once you have your plan and referral, you can book your sessions. Many providers in WA offer both in‑person and online (telethealth) appointments, giving you flexibility to choose what works best. Chat with your mental health care provider to find out what they offer.
How Long Will I Have to Wait to Get Started?
It’s important to note that most people find that wait times to see a mental health professional can vary quite a bit depending on where they live, the type of support they’re seeking, and how busy the provider is. However, It’s common for wait times to range from 2–4 weeks, especially in metropolitan areas, but some clinics may have availability sooner, or much longer wait times.
Other practitioners, particularly specialists or highly in‑demand practitioners may have longer waits. Rural and regional areas can also experience extended wait times due to fewer providers and availability. It’s always worth asking to be placed on a cancellation list, as many people are able to get an earlier appointment this way.
How Much Does It Cost?
A MHCP gives you access to Medicare rebates for a set number of sessions each year. In 2025, you get a maximum of 10 individual and 10 group mental health therapy sessions per calendar year with a Medicare Mental Health Treatment Plan (Better Access), funded under Medicare in Australia. The exact out‑of‑pocket cost varies depending on the provider’s fees.
Your GP or mental health professional can explain the costs involved so you know what, to expect, but the best way to find out costs is to ask your mental health provider directly when you book your appointment.
Why Taking This Step Matters
Reaching out for support is a sign of strength. Many people, of all life stages and backgrounds may seek mental health support, it’s a very normal and common part of everyday healthcare. A Mental Health Care Plan can help you take control of your wellbeing, build resilience, and access the tools you need to feel more supported in daily life.
Looking for Supportive Programs in WA?
If you or someone you care for could benefit from community‑based programs that build confidence, connection, and life skills, Cahoots offers a range of inclusive services for children, teens, and adults. Our programs are designed to complement professional mental health support by creating safe, empowering environments where people who live with disability can grow and thrive. Check out more here: https://cahoots.org.au/new-participants/
Header Image: cottonbro studio via Pexels
