"Do I need a GP referral?"
Short answer: No.
You do not need a GP referral to book an appointment at Dee Thompson Psychology.
Many women choose to self-refer and book privately, without involving their GP or Medicare.
Others prefer to attend with a Mental Health Treatment Plan in place. Both options are supported.
Self-referral (private bookings)
You are welcome to book directly without a GP referral.
This option:
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Allows you to start therapy without delay
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Does not require a Mental Health Treatment Plan
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Does not involve Medicare reporting or providing 'diagnostic' labels required for funding through Medicare
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Offers greater flexibility and privacy
All sessions are paid in full at the time of appointment.
For many women, this is the simplest and most straightforward way to access psychological support.
Booking with a Mental Health Treatment Plan
If you have a valid Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP or psychiatrist, you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate.
A GP referral is only required if you wish to claim a Medicare rebate.
Eligibility for rebates, number of sessions, and ongoing plan reviews are determined by your GP and Medicare.
Dee does not manage, monitor, or guarantee Medicare eligibility (however will, of course, meet the regulated reporting requirements for those with a valid referral).
For clients wishing to seek a Medicare rebate, please ask your GP to complete the referral form below.
Incomplete referrals cannot be accepted.
"Which option is right for me?"
There is no “better” option — only what suits your circumstances.
Some women prefer:
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To self-refer and work privately, without medical involvement
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To focus on therapy without diagnosis, reporting, or time-limited plans
Others prefer:
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To use Medicare rebates to reduce out-of-pocket costs
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To involve their GP as part of their broader healthcare including medication
If you are unsure, you are welcome to book an initial consultation privately and decide later whether a referral is needed.
Important notes
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Medicare rebates are optional and not required to access services
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Payment is required at the time of session (Visa and Mastercard debit/credit cards only)
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Where eligible, Medicare rebates may be processed following payment as a complementary service
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The responsibility is on each client to ensure that, if seeking a Medicare rebate, the referral from their GP or psychiatrist meets the eligibility for Medicare rebates and to monitor ongoing eligibility. Consult with your treating doctor and/or Medicare should you require clarification.
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Dee does not provide services under WorkCover or the NDIS