Fees & Frequently Asked Questions
Accessing Funding for Psychological Services
We welcome referrals through Medicare’s Better Access initiative, the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA), Bupa Defence, Queensland Police Service (QPS) and QPS self-referral, Workcover, the National Injury Insurance Scheme Queensland (NIISQ), the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), Victim Assist Queensland, and many other third parties. Clients wishing to access private health fund rebates will need to check eligibility directly with their provider. Not sure which pathway applies to you? We’re happy to help you figure it out before you book.
If you’re planning to use a Medicare rebate, please see your GP for a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP) — you’ll need this before your first session with us. DVA clients will need a D904 referral from their GP or psychiatrist to ensure their sessions are fully funded under their White or Gold card. If you’re a National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) participant, you can use your plan funding directly with us — no GP referral required, just let us know if you’re plan-managed or self-managed.
Therapy Fees
The Australian Psychological Society recommends an hourly rate for psychological services of $330 (2026-2027 financial year). Please find below our list of fees which remain under the recommended rate.
Clinical Psychologist
50 min session
Fee: $280
Medicare Rebate: $149.05
Out-of-Pocket Cost: $130.95
Registered Psychologist
50 min session
Fee: $240
Medicare Rebate: $101.55
Out-of-Pocket Cost: $138.95
Couples Counselling
80 min session
Fee: $400
Medicare Rebate: Not Applicable
Out-of-Pocket Cost: $400
Couples Counselling
50 min session
Fee: $300
Medicare Rebate: Not Applicable
Out-of-Pocket Cost: $300
Clinical Psychologist
50 min session
Fee: $280
Medicare Rebate: $149.05
Out-of-Pocket Cost: $130.75
Registered Psychologist
50 min session
Fee: $240
Medicare Rebate: $101.55
Out-of-Pocket Cost: $138.45
Couples Counselling
80 min session
Fee: $400
Medicare Rebate: Not Applicable
Out-of-Pocket Cost: $400
Couples Counselling
50 min session
Fee: $400
Medicare Rebate: Not Applicable
Out-of-Pocket Cost: $400
Additional Therapy Charges
- $20 additional for an initial individual session
- $20 additional for a Weekday Outside of Hours session (sessions commencing before 9am and from 5pm on weekdays)
- $20 additional for a Saturday session
-
$10 additional for an under 16 individual session
Assessment Fees
The need for additional testing or consultation with other professionals may increase the total time and cost beyond the fees above.
*Medicare rebates may be available for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) assessments conducted by a Clinical Psychologist under the Complex Neurodevelopmental Disorder (CND) pathway for clients under the age of 25. Eligibility requires a referral from a paediatrician or psychiatrist, and we recommend discussing this with your GP or specialist to determine your suitability.
Frequently asked questions
What is the psychology & Counselling Process?
- Reach out for help
Taking the first step towards support can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, relationship difficulties, or personal challenges, reaching out is the first step towards healing. Our friendly team is here to guide you through the process and help you book an appointment that suits your needs. - Attend your first session
Your initial session is all about understanding your concerns, goals, and experiences in a comfortable, judgment-free space. Our psychologists take the time to listen, provide insight, and develop a personalised approach to help you move forward. - Continue therapy and build lasting strategies
Progress takes time, and with ongoing support, you’ll learn effective strategies to manage challenges and improve your mental well-being. We provide evidence-based tools that empower you to build resilience and create lasting, positive change.
What can I expect in my first session?
Your first session is designed to be a safe, welcoming and pressure-free space. Your psychologist will spend time understanding your concerns, background and goals. They may ask about what brought you to therapy, your mental and emotional well-being, and any past experiences that might be relevant to your current challenges. There’s no rush—you’re encouraged to share at your own pace. By the end of the session, your psychologist will work with you to develop a personalised treatment plan, offering insight into the therapy approach that may be most beneficial for you.
How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions varies for each person, depending on their individual needs, goals and the type of therapy used. Some clients like to come for a handful of sessions, while others have seen their therapist for many years.Your therapist will work with you to assess your progress and determine the best approach and frequency of sessions moving forward.
Is therapy confidential?
Yes, confidentiality is a fundamental part of the therapeutic process. Your sessions and any information you share with your psychologist remain private. However, there are a few exceptions where psychologists are legally and ethically required to disclose information, such as when there is a risk of harm to yourself or others, or in certain legal situations. Your psychologist will explain confidentiality and its limits in your first session so you can feel informed and comfortable.
Do you provide therapy for children and teenagers?
Yes, we offer specialised therapy for children, adolescents and young adults. Our psychologists work with young people to help them navigate emotions, build self-esteem, improve communication, and manage challenges such as anxiety, depression, school stress, peer relationships and behavioural concerns. We use age-appropriate, evidence-based approaches to create a comfortable space where young clients feel safe to express themselves. Parent and caregiver involvement may also be included in sessions, depending on the child’s needs.
Medicare Rebates And Mental Health Treatment Plans
Brisbane Centre for Psychology is registered with Medicare, and eligible clients can claim rebates for their sessions through the Better Access Initiative.
Your doctor or GP will make an assessment about whether you are eligible for a Mental Health Treatment Plan and may refer you to see a psychologist. This plan gives you access to Medicare rebates of $149.05 per session with a Clinical Psychologist, or $101.55 with a Registered Psychologist.
Eligible clients can access:
- 10 individual psychology sessions per calendar year
- 10 group sessions per calendar year
To claim the rebate, you’ll need to have your Mental Health Treatment Plan completed by your GP before your first appointment. We will process your rebate electronically at the end of each session, so there’s nothing extra you need to do.
Please note you do not require a GP referral to attend, it is completely optional and simply to aid in costs. Please see the Better Access Fact Sheet for more details and how you may obtain one.
If you’re unsure how to get started, our friendly Client Support Team can guide you through the process.
Can I access a rebate from my private health fund?
Many private health insurance providers offer rebates for psychological services, depending on your level of cover. We recommend contacting your health fund directly to confirm your entitlements and eligibility.
Can I use a DVA referral?
Yes, we accept DVA referrals. Our Client Support Team will help match you with a psychologist experienced in working with veterans.
Typically, your GP may refer you for up to 12 sessions per treatment cycle, fully funded by DVA. At the end of each cycle—or after 12 months from the referral date—you’ll need a new referral from your GP to continue treatment.
As part of the process, your psychologist will provide a brief progress report to both your GP and DVA between each referral cycle.
Cancellation Policy
How do I book an appointment?
Booking an appointment is simple. You can contact us by phone, email or through our online booking system. If you’re not sure where to start, our friendly Client Support Team can guide you through the process, explain therapy options, and help match you with a psychologist who best suits your needs.