Mental Health Support in Coorparoo
Mental health is as important as physical health, and it is something our GPs take seriously. If you have noticed changes in your mood, sleep, appetite, or behaviour — or if you are experiencing anxiety, low mood, stress, or simply not feeling like yourself — talking to a GP can be a helpful first step.
You do not need to be in crisis to seek support. Coming in early, when something feels off, often makes a difference.
Mental Health Care Plans
A Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) is a Medicare-funded treatment plan that gives you access to up to 10 individual psychology sessions per calendar year at a reduced out-of-pocket cost. To access an MHCP, you need a longer appointment with your GP (please book a long consultation when you call or book online).
During this appointment, your GP will:
- Talk with you about what you have been experiencing
- Complete a mental health assessment
- Discuss the goals you would like to work toward
- Prepare the care plan and identify an appropriate psychologist or mental health professional
After completing your initial sessions, your GP will review the plan before additional sessions can be accessed.
What we can help with
Our GPs can provide support and referrals for a wide range of mental health concerns, which may include:
Anxiety — feelings of persistent worry, panic, or unease that are interfering with your daily life. Your GP can discuss what you are experiencing and, together, you can explore what support may help.
Low mood and depression — persistent low mood, loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed, changes in sleep or appetite, or feelings of hopelessness are worth discussing with a GP. Assessment and appropriate support — whether that is talking therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, or a combination — can be explored.
Sleep difficulties — poor sleep can affect mood, concentration, and physical health. Your GP can help identify contributing factors and discuss evidence-based approaches to improving sleep.
Stress and life difficulties — major life changes, work pressures, relationship difficulties, or grief can take a significant toll. Your GP can help you access the right support, including counselling, social work, and community services.
Behavioural concerns — changes in behaviour, difficulty concentrating, or concerns about possible neurodevelopmental differences can be assessed and appropriate referrals arranged.
Referrals
If your GP feels that psychiatric input or more intensive support would be beneficial, they can arrange a referral to a psychiatrist, a community mental health service, or a specialist assessment service. Private and public pathways are available depending on your circumstances.
What to expect
Mental health appointments are private and confidential. Discussions with your GP are covered by professional confidentiality obligations, except in specific circumstances required by law.
A long appointment is recommended for a Mental Health Care Plan. For a general discussion about mood or sleep, a standard appointment is usually appropriate. Please let reception know the general nature of your booking.
For fees and Medicare rebates, see our fees page. Book online or call (07) 3397 4151.
This information is general in nature and does not replace personal medical advice. Please book an appointment to discuss your individual circumstances.
