How Much Will Counselling Cost, and Can I Get Medicare or Insurance Rebates?
If you’re thinking about starting counselling, one of the first questions you might ask is: “How much will it cost?” This is a really common and very important question. Counselling is an investment in your mental wellbeing, so it makes sense to understand what to expect before you book your first session.
Let’s break it down.
Typical Cost of Counselling in Queensland
Counselling fees can vary depending on the counsellor’s qualifications, experience, and location.
- Counsellors (with qualifications in counselling) often charge $90 – $150 per session.
- Registered psychologists generally charge $150 – $280 per session, sometimes more.
- Clinical psychologists (with additional postgraduate training) are often at the higher end of the range.
Counselling sessions are usually 50–60 minutes long, but some practitioners offer longer sessions, especially for couples or family therapy.
Cost and Rebates at a Glance
| Type of Practitioner | Typical Fee (50–60 mins) | Medicare Rebate | Typical Out-of-Pocket Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Counsellor | $90 – $150 | ❌ Not available | $90 – $150 |
| Registered Psychologist | $180 – $250 | $93.35 (with Mental Health Care Plan) | $86.65 – $156.65 |
| Clinical Psychologist | $220 – $280 | $137.05 (with Mental Health Care Plan) | $82.95 – $142.95 |
💡 The “out-of-pocket cost” is what you pay after the Medicare rebate is applied. This is sometimes called “the gap”.
Can You Get a Medicare Rebate?
Here’s a quick summary:
- Psychologists: With a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP, you can claim Medicare rebates for up to 10 sessions per calendar year.
- Counsellors/Psychotherapists: Medicare does not cover counselling sessions unless the practitioner is also a registered psychologist, mental health social worker, or GP.
Private Health Insurance Rebates
Some private health funds do provide rebates for counselling, psychology, or mental health services.
- Check your extras cover carefully to see what’s included.
- Rebates vary between funds, and there is often a limit on the number of sessions or the dollar amount you can claim per year.
Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
If you’re employed, check whether your workplace offers an EAP. Many employers provide a set number of free, confidential counselling sessions for employees and sometimes their immediate family members.
Other Affordable Options
If cost is a barrier, you might also explore:
- Community health centres offering free or low-cost counselling.
- University counselling clinics where students offer sessions under supervision at reduced rates.
- Charities and helplines such as Lifeline, Beyond Blue, and Head to Health for free support and referrals.
The Bottom Line
Counselling is an investment in your mental health. If you need Medicare rebates, you’ll need to see a psychologist, social worker, or GP under a Mental Health Care Plan. If you prefer to see a counsellor, you’ll usually pay out of pocket — but fees are often lower, and you can book directly without a GP referral.
Most counsellors and psychologists are happy to explain their fees and rebate options before you book. Don’t hesitate to ask — it’s an important part of making sure you can get the support you need.
If you’d like to book a counselling session, please click here.