Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about fees, rebates, referrals and telehealth.

1.What is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker (AMHSW)?

An Accredited Mental Health Social Worker (AMHSW) is a social worker who has been assessed and credentialed by the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) to meet its professional standards for mental health practice. AMHSWs can provide evidence-based mental health interventions, including Focused Psychological Strategies (FPS) under Medicare's Better Access initiative, where eligibility and referral requirements are met. A social work approach also considers the broader factors that influence mental health and wellbeing, including relationships, family, community and life circumstances.

2. How do I access a Medicare rebate for counselling?

Eligible clients may be able to access a Medicare rebate through the Better Access initiative when receiving eligible mental health treatment services from an eligible social worker.For a 50-minute individual video Focused Psychological Strategies (FPS) consultation, the current Medicare benefit for MBS item 91176 is $89.50. (as of July 2026) An eligible referral is required. This may include a referral under a Mental Health Treatment Plan or another eligible Better Access referral pathway, depending on your circumstances.

3.How many Medicare-subsidised sessions can I access?

Eligible clients can access up to 10 individual and 10 group mental health treatment services per calendar year under Better Access.The initial course of treatment can include up to 6 individual services, with further services available within the annual 10-session limit where the relevant review and referral requirements are met.

4. How are Medicare claims processed?

Where patient claiming is available through our practice management system, we can lodge the Medicare claim electronically on your behalf.You will generally pay the session fee, and the Medicare benefit will be paid to the bank account registered with Medicare. Processing times can vary.

5. Can I use my NDIS funding for your services?

Yes. Self-Managed and Plan-Managed NDIS participants are welcome. Eligible social work services may be provided where they are consistent with your NDIS plan, funding arrangements and  the applicable NDIS pricing rules. Current NDIS pricing arrangements apply. NDIS pricing schedules set out recommended maximum prices for NDIS supports and are updated periodically. Our social work services and consultations for NDIS participants are billed in accordance with the current NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits.

Funding may also be used for comprehensive biopsychosocial assessments and functional reports where this is aligned with your plan goals and approved funding. Launch rates and promotional discounts do not apply to NDIS-funded services or formal assessment reports.

6. Can I claim sessions through Private Health Insurance?

Some private health insurance policies provide benefits for eligible social work or mental health services. This varies between insurers and individual policies, so we recommend checking directly with your health fund before your appointment. Medicare and private health insurance cannot both be claimed for the same service.

7. What is your cancellation and rescheduling policy?

Because your appointment time is reserved exclusively for you, late cancellations make it difficult to offer that time to someone else in need. We ask for as much notice as possible:

• 48 hours or more notice: No fee applies.

• Between 24 and 48 hours’ notice: A cancellation fee of up to 50% of the session fee may apply.

• Less than 24 hours’ notice or non-attendance: A cancellation fee of up to 100% of the session fee may apply.

Unforeseen emergencies are considered on a compassionate, case-by-case basis. Please note that Medicare rebates and NDIS funding cannot be claimed for unattended sessions or cancellation fees. For full details regarding appointment guidelines and billing policies, please refer to our Terms of Service

8. How does telehealth work?

Aathma Care provides secure telehealth appointments Australia-wide, with the option of video or telephone consultations. When booking your appointment, you can choose the option that best suits your needs. For video consultations, you can join using a computer, tablet or smartphone with a suitable internet connection. For telephone consultations, you will be contacted on the phone number provided when booking. For appointments, please choose a private and comfortable space where you can speak confidentially during your appointment.