Are you looking for more affordable therapy?
Have you wanted to talk to a therapist but put it off because of the cost?
We all know Australia is in the midst of a cost-of-living crisis. With mortgage repayments and rent rising faster than wages, it is understandably causing stress. The cost of groceries, going to the cinema, childcare and even smashed avo continues to climb. Financial pressure is forcing young people to stay in the family home longer, while some older adults are moving back in with their parents or, in some cases, finding themselves homeless.
Free or low cost counselling services
All of these things can take a toll on your mental health. The good news is that free help is available:
- Beyond Blue
• If you’re going through a hard time, the Beyond Blue Support Service is available 24/7
• Phone support 1300 22 4636 and online chat - Kids Helpline
• Australia’s only free 24/7, confidential and private counselling service specifically for children and young people aged 5 to 25 years
• Phone support 1800 55 1800 and online chat - Lifeline
• Lifeline provides compassionate support for people in crisis
• Phone support 13 11 14 and online chat 24/7 - QLife
• A free and anonymous service run by LGBTIQ+ people for LGBTIQ+ people.
• Phone support 1800 184 527 and online chat, 3pm to midnight
More affordable counselling with licensed therapists in Melbourne
Here at Safe Place Therapy, there are also ways to make talking to one of our therapists more affordable.
1. Mental Health Treatment Plan
This was previously called the Mental Health Care Plan. It gives anyone with a mental health condition access to up to 10 free or subsidised appointments per calendar year to see a mental health professional for psychological services or mental health services. Visit your GP to let them know how you are feeling.
2. Eating Disorder Plan
An evidence-based, best practice treatment model for people with eating disorders. The plan may include up to 40 therapy sessions with a mental health clinician over a 12-month period. A GP, psychiatrist or paediatrician can assess your eligibility.
3. Victims of Crime
For anyone who has been a primary, secondary or related victim of a violent crime in Victoria. Subsidised trauma counselling can be claimed through the Victorian Government’s Victims of Crime Financial Assistance Scheme.
4. Employee Assistance Program EAP
Check with your employer to see if they have an EAP. This is a confidential employer-funded service offering free short-term support.
5. Private Health Insurance
Every private health insurance fund and policy is different. In some cases, you may be eligible for a partial rebate through your private health insurance. This is something you will need to discuss with your insurance provider.
Ways we can help
We do both face-to-face and online therapy throughout Australia. We pride ourselves on offering more affordable rates for quality therapy.
Weekly sessions aren’t always necessary. Call us to schedule fortnightly or monthly sessions instead, to help with your budget.
Medicare rebates are available with many of our counsellors. Please visit the Meet Our Team page for a full breakdown of fees for private-paying clients. Clients who are covered under the NDIS are billed at the NDIS-advised rate.
We also have a bunch of free resources – podcasts and videos by our therapists – that you may find helpful.
Safe Place Therapy is exactly that. It’s your safe place to get the help you need. Call our friendly reception team on 03 7049 4970 for more information.
Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash.
