Not Sure Where to Start with Seeing a Psychologist? Let Us Break it Down.

If you’ve been thinking about seeing a psychologist but aren’t sure where to start, you’re not alone 🤍 It can feel like a big step, but it’s one of the most empowering things you can do for your wellbeing.

Below, we’ll walk you through how the process works, what a Mental Health Care Plan is, and how to find the right psychologist for you.

Why You Might Want to See a Psychologist

People come to therapy for many different reasons, and shouldn’t be left for when things feel “bad enough.”

You might want to talk to a psychologist if:

• You’ve been feeling anxious, stressed, flat, or burnt out.

• You’re dealing with a big life change or relationship challenge.

• You keep getting stuck in unhelpful thoughts or habits.

• You want to understand yourself better and build new ways to cope.

• You’re considering a mental health assessment or diagnosis

Therapy isn’t only about fixing problems, it’s about learning tools and building insight to handle life with more calm and confidence.

Step 1: Start With Your GP

If you’d like to use Medicare rebates, your first step is to book an appointment with your GP.

Let them know what’s been happening and that you’d like to speak with a psychologist.

Your GP can then create a Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP), which gives you access to Medicare rebates for sessions with a registered or clinical psychologist.

Tip: To make sure you get a referral to someone who is right for you, do your homework first and look at the local therapists who you would like to work with to ask your GP for a direct referral to them.

Step 2: Understanding Rebates

A Mental Health Care Plan gives you rebates for up to 10 psychology sessions per calendar year.

Here’s what that means:

• You pay the session fee up front.

• Medicare reimburses a portion of the cost (around $96–$141 depending on your psychologist).

• The rebate is deposited straight into your bank account.

At My Wellness Mindset, we take care of the rebate process for you after each session — no stress, no extra admin.

If you are working with our Clinical Psychologist, Shakayla, you could be eligible for a rebate of $145.25 per session.

Step 3: No MHCP? No Problem.

You don’t need a Mental Health Care Plan to see a psychologist.

Many people choose to come privately, especially if:

• They’ve already used their 10 rebated sessions.

• They’d rather not go through a GP.

• They’re seeking couples therapy or counselling, or other services not covered by Medicare.

If you have private health insurance, you may be able to claim a portion of your session fee through your extras cover.

Step 4: Finding the Right Psychologist for You

Finding the right fit is one of the most important parts of therapy. When you feel safe and understood, you’ll get so much more out of your sessions. We recommend choosing your therapist before getting your MHCP to save a little time and ensure you get a therapist that you want.

Here are a few tips:

• Check their specialty areas – different psychologists focus on things like anxiety, trauma, or relationships.

• Read their bio – it helps you get a feel for their personality and approach.

• Trust your gut – if you don’t feel comfortable after a couple of sessions, it’s okay to try someone else! Matching with the right therapist is one of THE MOST important parts of therapy helping at all, so make sure you click with yours!

At My Wellness Mindset, our team of psychologists and counsellors each bring something unique. Whether you’re after practical tools, deeper emotional work, or a mix of both — we’ll help match you with the right person.

Step 5: Taking the First Step

Once you have your plan (or decide to come privately), you can easily book online through our Client Portal or visit mywellnessmindset.com to learn more about our team and services.

Our friendly admin team can also help you find the best therapist for your needs and guide you through the process, just give us a call!

Final Thoughts

Reaching out for support is something to be proud of — not ashamed of.

Therapy can help you reconnect with yourself, break old patterns, and build a life that feels calmer, clearer, and more you.

You don’t need to wait until things fall apart to reach out… Sometimes, the best time to start therapy is simply when you’re ready to grow 💛

Ready to begin?

👉 Book your first session here or visit mywellnessmindset.com to find out more about how our psychologists can support you.