The APS (Australian Psychology Society) currently recommends rates of $300 for 45-60 mins.
Hourly rates at Lantern Psychology Centre are set by the individual psychologist who manage their own businesses and are based on length and type of consultation. They currently range between $225 – $280 a session.
Rebates under Medicare MHCTP
Clients with a referral under a GP Mental Health Care Treatment Plan (MHCTP) are eligible for a rebate of $137.05 per session with a clinical psychologist or $92.90 for treatment with a registered psychologist. Out of pocket cost is usually about $110 – $150.
See further information on Medicare rebates and Mental Health Care Treatment Plans HERE.
Longer sessions are often required for trauma-focused therapy and couple/relationship sessions and cost more, although the Medicare rebate is the same as above.
Letters and reports are charged at the normal hourly rate so will vary based on time taken to complete. GST must be charged for reports and letters.
Please note that relationship counselling does not qualify for Medicare rebates under GP Mental Health Care Plans.
Payment
EFTPOS and credit card facilities are available at the Lantern Psychology rooms and Medicare rebates can be processed at the time of payment or you can provide your credit card details for automatic payment after a session. Rebates are usually received by clients on the following business day, provided their bank accounts are listed with Medicare.
Cancellation policy
48 hours notice is generally required to cancel or change your appointment, or the full cost of the session may be charged.
Discounted rates
Although we do not provide a bulk-billing service, many of our psychologists reserve discount places for those on low incomes. Please contact individual psychologists for information about the availability of discounted places.
Please note that discounts do not apply to initial sessions unless previously arranged.