We’ve put together the 12 common pathways to mental health support so you can find the help you need.
Mental health
Support pathways
Need urgent support?
You’re not alone. If you’re in distress and need to speak to someone, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
If you're unsure which service is right for you, we recommend visiting your GP for advice.
What kind of mental health support do you need?
Most of the support pathways outlined on this page are split between private and public services. They vary in cost, location, and suitability to your unique needs. It's a good idea to return to this service directory along your mental health journey as your needs and preferences change.
Some mental health support options
General practitioner (GP)
General mental health advice, diagnosis, treatment, and referral.
- One-on-one
- Clinical
- In-person/virtual
Public mental health services
Counselling, psychiatric care, or therapy in health centres.
- One-on-one
- Clinical
- In-person/virtual
Private practitioners
Remote support from a professional online.
- One-on-one
- Clinical
- In-person/virtual
Telehealth services
Remote support from a professional online.
- One-on-one
- Clinical
- In-person/virtual
Community services
Accessible help through hotlines and support groups.
- One-on-one
- Clinical
- In-person/virtual
Employee assistance programs (EAPs)
Workplace-based programs with counselling for employees.
- One-on-one
- Clinical
- In-person/virtual
Online self-help resources
Websites and apps focused on managing mental wellbeing.
- One-on-one
- Clinical
- In-person/virtual
Child and adolescent mental health services
General mental health advice, diagnosis, treatment, and referral.
- One-on-one
- Clinical
- In-person/virtual
Hospital-based services
Acute crisis support for more severe mental health cases.
- One-on-one
- Clinical
- In-person/virtual
Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander-specific services
Culturally sensitive support with trained practitioners.
- Culturally appropriate
- In-person/virtual
- One-on-one
LGBTQIA+ services
Culturally appropriate mental health support for LGBTQIA+ Australians.
- LGBTQIA+
- In-person/virtual
- Affordable
Disability-specific services
Online and in-person mental health support for people with a disability, and their carers.
- Disability
- In-person/virtual
- One-on-one
These resources have been created in collaboration with Bupa’s clinical experts
Dr Andre Rodrigues
— PhD, Healthcare Program Manager, CHC
Nicole Vanderkroef
— Registered Clinical Counsellor, PACFA
Are you in need of urgent support?
We've put together a list of services for free support that's relevant to where you live, and what you're going through.
Discover free online treatment programs
This Way Up is an online program to learn practical tips for managing mental health. It’s a new way to do therapy from the comfort of your own home.
Bupa members can access one free mental health and wellbeing treatment program.
These resources are not intended to be a comprehensive list or to represent that Bupa endorses any specific health practitioner or program. Everyone’s health journey is individual and health outcomes can vary from person to person. These resources are also not intended to be a replacement for personalised and specific medical, healthcare or other professional advice. If you have any concerns about your health, see your doctor or other health professional.