Do I need a referral to see a psychologist?
No. Unlike specialists such as psychiatrists, psychologists in Australia can be seen without any referral — you can book directly, today, with the psychologist of your choosing. A GP referral matters for one thing only: claiming Medicare rebates.
By Dr Simon Vincenzi, Clinical & Forensic Psychologist · AHPRA registered · Director, Clarity Psychology
Book first, sort the paperwork alongside.
You choose your psychologist — not your GP. Even when a referral names a practice or practitioner, the choice is legally yours. Browse profiles, ask to be matched by what you're dealing with, and switch if the fit isn't right.
You can book before you've seen your GP. Psychology appointments often book out days or weeks ahead; GP appointments are usually faster to get. So the efficient order is: book your psychology session first, then see your GP for a Mental Health Treatment Plan before that first session — arrive with the plan in place and Medicare rebates apply from session one. (Without a plan, sessions still go ahead; you simply pay privately until it's in place.)
Some funding paths need no referral at all: NDIS (self- and plan-managed), EAP sessions through your employer, and private-paying clients all book directly. Our admin team happily walks you through your situation — call (03) 9349 2745 (Carlton & Ringwood North) or (03) 9131 8737 (St Kilda).
No gatekeepers between you and starting.
Book online now, and sort the GP plan before your first session — rebates from day one.
Reviewed by Dr Simon Vincenzi, Clinical Psychologist and Director of Clarity Psychology. Updated July 2026.