Under the new Medicare scheme introduced in November 2006, and modified in 2011, rebates are available for psychological counselling.  In order to be eligible for a rebate, you must be eligible for the scheme and referred by your GP, your psychiatrist or a paediatrician. Your GP will need to complete a detailed mental health assessment and prepare a Mental Health Care Plan before referring you to a psychologist. You should book a longer session with your GP to enable time for this.  Generally, you will receive an $80 rebate per session (for up to 10 sessions per year, plus a further 6 if your Dr determines more are needed) under the scheme, with higher rates available for services provided by a Clinical Psychologist.  No rebate is applicable for discounted sessions provided by our intern psychologists.  For more information, download the Medicare information consumer facts sheet from the Australian Psychological Society viahttp://www.psychology.org.au/Assets/Files/Medicare_Fact_Sheet1.pdf