Mental Health Treatment Plan: What you need to know

You may have heard of a Mental Health Treatment plan but might not know what it is. Here we explain why some people seek a MHTP and why you don’t need one to receive counselling at Working Well.

What is a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP)?

If you have a diagnosed mental health disorder, such as depression or anxiety, your GP can create a MHTP for you. This will include treatment options, referrals to see a psychologist or psychiatrist and review and goal setting.

What does a MHTP give me?

Under a MHTP you get 10 subsidised individual or group sessions per year with a registered or clinical psychologist or psychiatrist. You pay the full amount for the services provided and then claim a portion back through Medicare. This is capped at 10 sessions within a 12 month period.

Subsequent sessions will not be subsidised. Because you do not need a MHTP to see one of our therapists, you are not capped at 10 sessions and can book as many sessions as you want within a 12 month period.

What happens after 10 sessions under a MHTP?

If you exceed 10 sessions in 12 months you will need to pay the full amount for subsequent sessions.

You may be able to receive a new MHTP after 12 months through your GP.

How much money does a MHTP save me?

The amount you receive back will depend on the cost of the service. Always ask your service provider about out of pocket costs before booking a session.

Why don’t I need a MHTP to see a counsellor at Working Well?

At present counsellors and psychotherapists are not included under the Medicare Benefits Schedule which means you do not need a diagnosed mental health condition or a MHTP to have counselling with us.

Are MHTPs confidential?

MHTPs are confidential. However, it will be included on your Health Record which can be accessed by medical healthcare providers.

What are some advantages of counselling at Working Well?

You do not need a mental health diagnosis to receive counselling at Working Well. You also do need to tell your GP or get a MHTP to book a session with us, meaning there is no record that you have sought psychological support. Our fees are designed to reflect your out of pocket costs after the rebate so you won’t pay more with us. Your sessions with us are not capped at 10 per year. You can book as many sessions within a 12 month period as you need and want.

Do you have questions? Contact us.