A psychologist is a mental health provider who helps people manage mental illness, emotional and coping difficulties.
Providers
Psychologists
FAQs
You don’t need a referral to see a psychologist, but a GP can help you with a recommendation.
You’ll find some ‘find a psychologist’ tools on Bupa’s Navigating Mental Health page.
Psychologists have a comprehensive understanding of how the mind and brain work. They can provide a range of psychological support approaches, but do not prescribe medicines or provide advice on physical health. Some psychologists specialise further in areas such as sport and exercise, chronic pain management and behavioural psychology.
Psychologists can help you manage:
- anxiety
- depression
- pain
- behavioural difficulties.
Even if you're not diagnosed with a mental health condition, psychologists have experience in treating people who want to change unhelpful thought patterns or learn better coping strategies to get through tough times.
Examples of psychological therapies include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT). CBT helps change unhelpful or unhealthy habits of thinking, feeling and behaviour using practical self-help strategies. IPT looks at how a person's relationships and interactions with others affect their own thoughts and behaviours.
The cost will vary depending on practitioner and the type of appointment you need.
If you're with a private health fund, you may also be able to cover some of the cost, but not as well as a Medicare rebate. Check your level of cover for any reimbursements.
If you’re a Bupa health insurance member, you can check your cover online.
Some people are eligible for Medicare rebates with a referral from a GP or specialist. Talk to your doctor about setting up a Mental Health Care Plan.
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