Therapy costs in Australia can feel hard to predict because fees vary by practitioner type, location, session length, and whether Medicare or private health rebates apply. In 2023–24, Australia delivered 12.6 million Medicare mental health services, and 2.7 million people accessed Medicare mental health support, which shows how many Australians are navigating the same cost questions right now.

In this guide, I break down typical fees, rebates, and common discount pathways in a way that is easy to compare across approaches, including EMDR therapy, DBT therapy, and ACT therapy, as well as longer-format supports like family therapy. I also share practical therapy guidance on what to ask before booking, how to estimate out-of-pocket costs, and how to plan sessions so support stays sustainable, not stressful.

For support today, contact me at Where’s Your Head At on 0499 993 077, visit 20/1 Maitland Place, Norwest NSW 2153, or book an appointment online. If you’d like, call or book a short phone chat first so I can answer any questions and help you feel prepared.

Key Takeaways

Therapy costs vary by provider, location, and session type, so it helps to ask about fees before booking.
Medicare Better Access can reduce costs for eligible people, with up to 10 individual and 10 group sessions per year.
Private health extras may help with costs, but you usually choose either Medicare or private health for the same session.
Current fees: $150 + GST for 60-minute Counselling & Psychotherapy and Christian Counselling, and $180 + GST for 60-minute family therapy and Couples Counselling.
Different approaches like emdr therapy, DBT therapy, and ACT therapy can be matched to your goals with clear therapy guidance.

Understanding the Typical Cost of Therapy in Australia

I want to make the cost side of Therapy feel predictable, because uncertainty is one of the biggest reasons people put off getting support. In Australia, private fees vary widely, but a common out-of-pocket starting range for a standard session (before rebates) is often quoted around $180 to $287.50, depending on provider type and location. It is also worth knowing that professional bodies publish suggested fee schedules that are higher than what many people actually pay, such as the Australian Psychological Society’s suggested $318for a standard 46–60 minute consultation in 2025–26, and the Australian Association of Psychologists’ recommended $330 for a standard consultation over the same period.

The final price usually comes down to three practical variables: who you see, how long the session is, and where it happens. Psychologists in private practice set their own rates, so costs can shift by clinic, clinician experience, and appointment type, and you will usually be told fees upfront. Session length matters because some approaches, such as EMDR therapy, may use longer appointments for assessment, preparation, or intensive processing, which can increase the upfront fee even when the work is highly targeted. Similarly, structured approaches like DBT therapy and ACT therapy can be delivered in standard session blocks, but may involve skills resources, between-session practice, or additional planning that influences how the overall Therapy budget feels over time.

Location and format also shift the price. Metro clinics often cost more than regional services, and telehealth is now a normal way Therapy is delivered in Australia, which can help some people access care more consistently, even if it does not always reduce the fee. When the work involves more than one person, such as family therapy, the session may be longer and more complex, which can affect the total fee as well.

A useful way to think about this is that the session fee is only the starting point, and good therapy guidance focuses on the full picture: the likely number of sessions, whether longer sessions are needed for the approach you choose, and whether rebates or discounted pathways may apply in your situation.

Factor	Impact on Cost	Consideration
Practitioner Experience	Higher	Specialised expertise often commands higher fees.
Geographic Location	Variable	Metropolitan areas may have different rates than regional zones.
Session Duration	Proportional	Standard sessions are usually 50 minutes long.
Service Type	Variable	Individual sessions differ from group or family therapy.

Understanding these costs can make your search for therapy easier. Finding the right therapist is as important as the cost.

How Medicare Rebates Work for Mental Health Therapy

Many people feel relieved once they understand that Medicare does not usually make Therapy free, but it can reduce the cost through the Australian Government’s Better Access initiative. Under Better Access, eligible people can claim Medicare benefits for mental health treatment services each calendar year if they have been assessed as having a clinically diagnosed mental disorder and meet the program requirements. The main starting point is a Mental Health Treatment Plan, which is created by a GP after an assessment and a discussion about goals and treatment options, and in some cases can also be prepared by a psychiatrist or pediatrician.

Once a Mental Health Treatment Plan is in place, it is paired with a referral so you can access Medicare-rebated sessions with eligible providers such as psychologists, eligible social workers, and eligible occupational therapists. If you are eligible, Better Access allows Medicare benefits for up to 10 individual and up to 10 group mental health treatment services per calendar year, noting you can attend more sessions if you choose, but Medicare will not cover more than these limits. Most people still pay an out-of-pocket gap if the provider’s fee is higher than the Medicare rebate, unless the provider chooses to bulk bill.

Telehealth is also part of how Medicare-supported mental health Therapy can be delivered, and Better Access includes ongoing access to individual telehealth services where it is safe and clinically appropriate. A GP review is commonly used after an initial course of treatment to check progress and decide whether further sessions are needed, which keeps care structured and goal-focused.

Book a longer GP appointment and ask about a Mental Health Treatment Plan if you have symptoms that may meet criteria for a diagnosed mental health condition.
If eligible, the GP prepares the plan and provides a referral to an appropriate mental health provider.
Attend Therapy sessions and pay the provider’s fee, then receive the Medicare rebate (or pay no gap only if bulk billed).
Medicare benefits apply for up to 10 individual and 10 group sessions per calendar year under Better Access (eligibility rules apply).
Telehealth sessions can be included when appropriate, which can make access easier if travel or location is a barrier.

To start, you need to see your General Practitioner. Your GP is the only one who can check if you need this help and give you the referral.

Here’s a simple guide to help you through the process:

Book a long appointment with your GP to talk about your mental health concerns.
Ask for a Mental Health Care Plan tailored to your needs.
Get your referral letter, which you’ll give to your chosen professional.
Go to your sessions and claim your rebate through Medicare to lower your therapy costs.

By following these steps, you can focus on getting better without worrying about money. I always tell my clients to be honest with their GP so they get the best support.

Private Health Insurance and Your Therapy Expenses

Private health insurance extras cover can make Therapy feel more affordable, but the amount you get back depends on your fund, your level of cover, and whether your provider type is recognised by your insurer. As a simple guide, an extras cover is often around $50 to $80 per month for singles, and higher for couples and families, with many examples sitting around $115 per month for couples and $125 per month for families, depending on the policy. Premiums can also rise each year, and an average increase of 4.41% was approved from 1 April 2026, so checking your renewal notice matters.

Use your service fees as the starting point for budgeting. A 60-minute Therapy session is $150 + GST for Counselling & Psychotherapy and Christian Counselling, and $180 + GST for Family Therapy and Couples Counselling. If your extras cover includes mental health benefits, a common example rebate range is roughly $60 to $115 per session, but the exact amount and your annual cap vary by fund and policy. Also, you generally cannot claim Medicare and private health for the same appointment, so you choose one payment pathway per session.

Extras cover often costs about $50 to $80 per month for singles, and more for couples and families.
Your 60-minute Therapy fees are $150 + GST or $180 + GST, depending on the service.
A common private health rebate example is about $60 to $115 per session, but it depends on your policy and annual limits.
You usually pick either Medicare or private health for a session, not both.
Always check your annual cap and whether your fund recognises your provider type before you book.

Exploring Different Types of Therapy Services Available

Different people need different kinds of Therapy, so the most helpful starting point is usually figuring out what you want help with and how you want to work. Some approaches are skills-based and structured, while others focus on processing painful memories, changing unhelpful patterns, or improving relationships at home. In Australia, many commonly used approaches fall under evidence-based psychological interventions, meaning there is research support behind how and why they work.

When someone asks for therapy guidance, the conversation often turns into matching the method to the goal. If distress is linked to trauma memories and the body’s alarm system, EMDR therapy is a structured approach that works directly with traumatic memories while using bilateral stimulation, and it is commonly discussed in the context of trauma treatment. If emotions feel intense, fast, and hard to regulate, DBT therapy is a structured form of talk therapy that teaches practical skills for emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and relationships. If the main struggle is getting stuck fighting thoughts and feelings, ACT therapy focuses on building psychological flexibility, so you can live in line with your values even when difficult feelings show up.

For relationship and household stress, family therapy focuses on patterns between people rather than viewing problems in isolation, which can be especially helpful when conflict, communication breakdown, or family transitions are part of the picture. In many cases, sessions combine elements from more than one approach, because real life rarely fits into one neat box.

EMDR therapy is often used when distress is tied to traumatic memories, flashbacks, or persistent fear responses.
DBT therapy is often chosen when emotional ups and downs feel extreme, impulsive reactions show up, or relationships feel unstable.
ACT therapy is often helpful when anxiety, stress, or low mood is fuelled by avoidance, overthinking, or getting stuck in self-criticism.
Family therapy is often useful when the problem lies in the pattern between people, like repeated conflict, parenting stress, or household communication issues.
Good therapy guidance usually means choosing a style you can actually stick with, because progress often comes from consistent practice, not a perfect method.

Counselling and Psychotherapy Approaches

I provide professional counselling and psychotherapy in a safe space. This therapy lets you explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace. Together, we can uncover patterns that hold you back and find healthier ways to face life’s challenges.

Stress, relationship issues, or life changes are common concerns. These sessions offer a space for reflection. Building a strong, trusting relationship with you is my priority. This is crucial for meaningful change and emotional well-being.

Specialised Modalities Including EMDR, DBT, and ACT Therapy

For targeted support, I offer specialised modalities. These methods are effective for trauma, intense emotions, and building flexibility. EMDR therapy, DBT therapy, and ACT therapy can lead to significant results.

Each modality has a unique role in your mental health toolkit. Below is a table showing how these therapies can support your growth:

Modality	Primary Focus	Best For
EMDR Therapy	Trauma processing	PTSD and distressing memories
DBT Therapy	Emotional regulation	Intense emotions and self-harm
ACT Therapy	Psychological flexibility	Anxiety and value-based living

Choosing the right EMDR therapy, DBT therapy, or ACT therapy depends on your needs. I’m here to help you find the best approach. Your wellness journey is unique, and I’m committed to supporting you every step of the way.

How Where’s Your Head At Supports Your Mental Health Journey

Counselling supports mental health by giving people a steady, confidential space to sort through what is happening inside and around them, without needing to have all the answers first. In a typical counselling process, the first goal is clarity. That often includes a simple assessment of stressors, symptoms, supports, and risks, followed by setting goals that feel realistic. When life feels messy, this structure alone can reduce overwhelm because it turns a big, confusing problem into smaller steps that can actually be worked on.

Counselling also helps by teaching skills that make day-to-day life more manageable. Many approaches focus on emotional regulation, so strong feelings feel less like a wave that knocks you over. Others focus on cognitive restructuring, which means learning to notice unhelpful thinking patterns and replace them with thoughts that are more accurate and supportive. Some sessions focus on behaviour change, like building routines, reducing avoidance, or practising difficult conversations, because actions often shape mood as much as thoughts do. Over time, this kind of work can improve coping, sleep, confidence, and relationships, not because life becomes perfect, but because the person becomes better equipped to handle what life brings.

Another key benefit is that Counselling is not only about what is said in the room, but what changes outside the room. Counsellors often help people plan for triggers, create boundaries, strengthen support networks, and build habits that protect wellbeing long-term, sometimes called relapse prevention. For people who need flexibility, online counselling can also make consistency easier by reducing travel and scheduling barriers, while still offering the same core supports of reflection, skill-building, and accountability.

Our Range of Professional Services

At Where’s Your Head At, we offer a wide range of Counselling & Psychotherapy services. They’re designed to fit your personal needs. Whether you’re facing life changes or mental health issues, our evidence-based therapy can help you grow. For more information, call me at 0499 993 077.

Why Choosing the Right Therapist Matters

Finding the right therapist is crucial for your recovery. A strong bond between you and your therapist is key. It helps you grow and change for the better.

Having a trusted partner in your mental health journey is vital. I invite you to talk about how my therapy can help you. Choosing the right therapy environment is a big step towards your success.

Navigating Fees for Couples and Family Therapy

Looking for support for your relationships is a brave step. It’s a key move towards a healthier future. When you seek therapy, you aim for real change and a stronger bond. These sessions are a big investment in your wellbeing, but they can change your life for the better.

It’s worth noting that Medicare doesn’t cover couples or family therapy sessions. These services focus on relationships, not individual mental health issues. This means they don’t fit into the standard rebate system. I want to be upfront about costs so you can plan with confidence.

My Couples Counselling helps you and your partner grow closer and talk better. My family therapy works to make your home life more supportive and healthy. Many find the clarity and peace from these therapy sessions are worth the cost.

Here’s a quick look at what each service aims to achieve:

Service Type	Primary Focus	Expected Outcome
Couples Counselling	Relationship dynamics	Improved intimacy and trust
Family Therapy	Household communication	Reduced conflict and harmony
Individual Support	Personal mental health	Better emotional regulation

Support Options for Young People and Youth Mentoring

Growing up today comes with its own set of challenges. That’s why I focus on giving specialised counselling for young people. I want to make sure every young person feels heard and valued. It’s a critical time in their lives.

I also offer youth mentoring to help them grow strong and find their way. This helps build self-esteem and practical skills for life’s challenges. By mixing mentorship with therapy, I create a supportive environment for them to flourish.

The table below shows the different support options available. It helps you find the best fit for your child’s needs:

Support Type	Primary Focus	Best For
Youth Mentoring	Resilience & Life Skills	Personal Development
Clinical Therapy	Mental Health & Wellbeing	Addressing Specific Issues
Community Services	Accessible Support	Ages 12-25

Professional Supervision and Christian Counselling Services

Sometimes support is not only about personal healing. Sometimes it is about strengthening the way you show up for others in your professional role, or making space for faith to sit alongside emotional and psychological work in a grounded way. Professional Supervision supports practitioners who want to reflect on their work, build confidence with complex situations, and stay aligned with ethical practice. Christian Counselling supports people who want their spiritual beliefs, values, and questions to be welcomed as part of the conversation, while still using a structured counselling process that remains respectful and professional.

Both options are designed to be clear, practical, and safe. Professional Supervision commonly focuses on reflective practice, boundaries, decision-making, and skill development. Christian Counselling commonly focuses on emotional wellbeing while making room for spiritual meaning, prayer or Scripture if desired, and values-based decision-making, without forcing a particular viewpoint. Each service can be tailored to the pace, goals, and comfort level of the person attending, whether that person is a practitioner seeking growth or a client seeking faith-integrated support.

Service	Who it is for	What it usually focuses on	Benefits you can expect	Duration and fee
Professional Supervision	Counsellors, support workers, ministry leaders, allied professionals, and students building capability	Reflective practice, ethical dilemmas, boundaries, case formulation, self-care and burnout prevention, professional development plans	Clearer decision-making, stronger boundaries, improved confidence, better consistency in practice, sustainable workload habits	60 minutes, $130 + GST (student discount rate available)
Christian Counselling	Individuals or couples who want faith to be included as part of their counselling process	Emotions, relationships, stress, grief, identity, and life decisions alongside spiritual values and meaning-making	A supportive space where faith is respected, clearer direction through values, steadier coping, deeper alignment between beliefs and daily life	60 minutes, $150 + GST (sliding scale option)

Conclusion

I hope this guide has made Therapy costs in Australia feel clearer and more manageable, because understanding the money side helps you make decisions with less stress and more confidence. This article has walked through what shapes pricing, how Medicare rebates can lower out-of-pocket costs for eligible people, and how private health extras may help for some sessions, depending on your fund, your policy limits, and what your insurer recognises.

If you are planning your next steps, it helps to start with the practical basics: know your session fee, ask about any rebates or discounts you may be eligible for, and choose a support plan you can realistically sustain. At Where’s Your Head At, the current fees are for therapy sessions, such as Counselling & Psychotherapy and Christian Counselling at $150 + GST for 60 minutes with a sliding scale option, and relationship-focused sessions like family therapy and Couples Counselling at $180 + GST for 60 minutes.

Most importantly, you do not have to work through these challenges alone. Whether you are looking for individual support, structured approaches like EMDR therapy, DBT therapy, or ACT therapy, or you need relationship-focused help through family therapy, the right support can make a real difference over time. When you are ready, you can contact the Norwest clinic or book online to take the next step in a way that feels steady and supported.

FAQ

What is the typical cost of a session at Where’s Your Head At?

Therapy in Australia usually costs between $180 and $287.50 per session. At Where’s Your Head At, I give clear guidance on our fees. This helps you plan your budget while focusing on your well-being.

Can I get a Medicare rebate for EMDR therapy or DBT therapy?

Yes, with a Mental Health Care Plan, you can get rebates for up to 10 sessions a year. This includes EMDR, DBT, and ACT therapy from a registered provider.

Is family therapy covered under a Mental Health Care Plan?

No, family therapy and couples counselling aren’t covered by Medicare. But, they’re crucial for your family’s wellbeing. You might get some help from private health insurance.

How do I claim a rebate through my private health insurance?

You might get $60 to $115 back per session, depending on your cover. Always check with your insurer first. Remember, you can’t claim both Medicare and private health for the same session.

Where is your clinic located, and how can I book?

My clinic, Where’s Your Head At, is at 20/1 Maitland Place, Norwest NSW 2153. Book by calling 0499 993 077 or online at wheresyourheadat.com.au/therapist-booking/.

Do you offer support specifically for young people?

Yes, I offer Counselling for Young People and Youth Mentoring. For 12 to 25-year-olds, Headspace offers free or low-cost services too.

What is the benefit of ACT therapy?

ACT therapy helps you be more flexible mentally. It teaches you to accept your feelings and act on your values.

Do you provide faith-based support?

Yes, I offer Christian Counselling. It helps clients integrate their faith into their therapy. This is done with the same care as all my services.

Practical Guide to Therapy Costs, Rebates and Discounts