
Frequently asked questions.
What is a registered psychologist?
A registered psychologist in Australia is a professional who has met the stringent education, training, and ethical standards set by the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA) and is registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). This registration ensures that the psychologist is qualified to provide a range of psychological services to the public.
What is a clinical psychologist?
A clinical psychologist is a registered psychologist who has completed advanced education and training in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders. This includes a minimum of six years of university study, culminating in a Master's or Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, followed by a supervised registrar program. Clinical psychologists are endorsed by the PsyBA to provide specialized mental health services.
What will the fees be? How much will I pay?
Fees will depend on the type of care and your psychologist.
Our psychologists are registered providers under Medicare's Better Access initiative. With a valid Mental Health Treatment Plan and referral from a General Practitioner (GP), psychiatrist, or paediatrician, you may be eligible for Medicare rebates.
Private health insurance rebates may also apply, depending on your cover. Unfortunately, you cannot use the Medicare Rebate plus private health at the same time.
Our psychologists are registered to provide services under the WorkCover scheme, administered by the State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA) in NSW.
Fee reductions may be available for low-income earners and those experiencing financial hardship.
More info about Medicare, please!
Better Access to Psychologists
The Better Access initiative aims to improve treatment and management of mental health conditions by providing Medicare rebates for specified psychological services.
Can I claim a Medicare rebate for my appointments with a psychologist?
Yes, to claim a Medicare rebate, you must have a Mental Health Treatment Plan and a referral from a GP, psychiatrist, or paediatrician.
How many sessions with a psychologist am I entitled to?
Eligible patients can receive up to 10 individual and 10 group mental health services per calendar year. Your referring doctor will assess your progress and determine the number of sessions appropriate for your needs.
What will it cost me?
Rebates vary depending on the service provided. As of 2025, the Medicare rebate is $96.65 per session with a general psychologist and $141.85 per session with a clinical psychologist. Please discuss specific fees with our staff.
Our Fees are currently $190 per hour for a registered psychologist and $235 per hour for a clinical psychologist.
Our Couple and Family Counsellor (Claudia Chakar) fee is $150 per hour, and this service does not have a medicare rebate.
What payment options do you have?
We accept payments by cash, credit card (Visa or Mastercard), cheque, or debit card.
With our HICAPS facility, Medicare rebates can be processed at the time of your visit, eliminating the need to visit a Medicare office.
Do you accept referrals from specific programs?
Yes, you may be eligible for referral to psychological services through specific programs such as:
Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA): For veterans requiring mental health support.
Victims Services NSW: For individuals who have experienced violent crime.
WorkCover (SIRA): For workplace compensation matters.
Please consult with your GP or the relevant program to determine your eligibility.
Still have questions?
Ask away! Submit your details or give us a ring or email.
Contact
admin@merrylandscounselling.com.au
Phone: (02) 9760 1110
Fax: (02) 9760 1112
Location
11 Lowe Street
Merrylands NSW 2160