Do you need a referral to see a psychologist in Queensland?
No, you don’t need a referral to see a psychologist in Queensland. You can book privately at any time, no GP visit required. You only need a referral if you’d like to claim a Medicare rebate on your sessions, and your GP can guide you through that step.
Private health insurance and psychology rebates
Some private health insurance policies include rebates for psychology sessions. If you have private health cover, it may be worth checking with your insurer before your appointment. They can let you know whether psychology is included, how much you may get back, and whether any waiting periods or yearly limits apply. Where available, we can process eligible private health claims on the spot at the time of payment. If this is not available through your insurer, we can provide a receipt so you can claim directly.
When you do need a referral
You only need a referral if you want to claim a Medicare rebate under a Mental Health Care Plan. To do that, you book an appointment with your GP, who talks with you about what's going on and, if appropriate, prepares a Mental Health Care Plan and refers you to a psychologist. With that in place, you can claim a rebate on each eligible session. It's worth letting the GP receptionist know when you book that you'd like to discuss a mental health plan, as your GP will usually need a longer appointment for it.
What about WorkCover?
These pathways work a little differently, and each has its own referral or approval process. If you're accessing care through WorkCover Queensland, we can talk through what details are needed before sessions begin.
The short version
You can see a psychologist in Queensland without a referral if you're paying privately. A referral and Mental Health Care Plan are only needed to claim a Medicare rebate. If you are unsure which pathway applies, you are welcome to ask and we can talk through the next step.
If this brought up something you'd like to talk through, you're welcome to contact us or ask about a first session.
Related pages: Fees & FAQ - Services & Funding - Contact