Get quick answers to the most common questions about your mental health check up.
Thomas Family Medical Practice
Mental Health Consultation with Your GP in Castle Hill
At Thomas Family Medical Practice, we believe mental health is just as important as physical health. Our experienced doctors offer a safe and supportive environment where you can openly discuss your concerns. Every treatment plan is personalised to your unique needs, and we are committed to providing confidential and compassionate care at every step.
What Is a Mental Health Care Plan?
If you are living with anxiety, depression, or another mental health condition, you may be eligible for a Mental Health Treatment Plan under the Better Access initiative. This program aims to improve mental health outcomes by giving you access to professional support through Medicare subsidised services.
A treatment plan allows you to claim:
Up to 10 individual sessions with a mental health professional each calendar year
Up to 10 group sessions each year
These sessions help you access care that is either free or partly subsidised by Medicare. However, please note that each provider sets their own fees, so there may still be some out-of-pocket costs.
Group sessions do not include family or couple therapy.
Getting Started with a Mental Health Care Plan
Our reception team is here to assist you with more information and to schedule your appointment. These appointments will also be available to book on HotDoc for your convenience.
Getting Started with a Mental Health Care Plan
To begin, one of our doctors will meet with you for an initial consultation to assess your mental health needs. If suitable, they can create a care plan and refer you for:
An initial 6 Medicare subsidised sessions
If needed, an additional 4 sessions after a review
If you feel you may require more than 10 sessions, we encourage you to speak to your doctor to explore your options further.
Frequently Asked Questions
A mental health care plan is a document prepared by your doctor that outlines your mental health needs and treatment goals. It also allows you to access Medicare subsidised sessions with a mental health professional.
You can access up to 10 individual and 10 group therapy sessions per calendar year with a valid mental health care plan.
Yes, to access Medicare rebates, your GP must first create a mental health care plan and refer you to a psychologist or mental health professional.
The plan can support conditions like anxiety, depression, stress, post-traumatic stress disorder, grief, and other diagnosed mental health concerns.
Some psychologists bulk bill, but others may charge a fee. Medicare covers part of the cost, and any remaining amount may be an out of pocket expense.
Yes, your mental health consultation with your GP is completely confidential. Your privacy is protected under medical ethics and law.
Yes, in some cases your GP can recommend extra sessions based on your condition. They will review your care plan before making this decision.
You can book by calling (02) 7226 5899 or emailing reception@drthomasgp.com. We offer caring, non-judgmental support to help you get started.
Most routine test results, including full blood count and other blood tests, are generally available within 24–72 hours. This depends on the pathology that is working on your samples.
Exciting New Initiatives
We are rolling out new services to help ensure optimum health for all our patients. These include:
Heart Health Checks
Routine checks for individuals aged over forty to assess and support long term heart health.
DMMR
Home Medications Review in collaboration with DMMR Australia for eligible patients seeking medication support.
Chronic Condition Management Plan
Care Plans for eligible patients to help manage ongoing health conditions with professional support.
Free Flu Vaccinations
Protect against seasonal influenza. Book now for your flu shot if you are eligible for a free vaccine.
National Cancer Screening Programs
Screening for eligible patients to detect cervical, breast, lung or bowel cancers early.