Help for depression and anxiety in New South Wales

Summary

• Depression and anxiety are common and very treatable. Most people who get help feel better.
• In NSW, a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan unlocks Medicare-rebated sessions.
• Telehealth reaches Sydney, Newcastle, Wollongong and right across regional NSW, often sooner than a local clinic.

If low mood or worry has stuck around and started affecting your sleep, work or relationships, talking to someone helps. Across New South Wales, you can see a registered psychologist by video, from Sydney, Newcastle, Wollongong and right across regional NSW. That often means a shorter wait than an in-person clinic.

If you need support now in New South Wales: call the NSW Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511, or Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636. In an emergency, call 000.

How therapy helps

A psychologist helps you see the patterns that keep anxiety or low mood going, then gives you tools to shift them. Cognitive behavioural therapy is the most studied approach, and for most people it works just as well by video as in person.

Getting started in NSW

See your GP for a Mental Health Treatment Plan, then book a psychologist. It gives you up to ten rebated sessions a year. Ask about fees before you book. For more, read seeing a psychologist for depression and anxiety.

Frequently asked questions

Can I see a psychologist for anxiety by telehealth in NSW?

Yes. Video sessions are well supported for common presentations, and are Medicare-eligible under a Mental Health Treatment Plan.

How do I get a rebate in NSW?

See your GP for a Mental Health Treatment Plan, then book a registered psychologist. Rebates apply per session.

Where can I get urgent help in New South Wales?

Contact the NSW Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511. In an emergency, call 000.

Is online therapy as good as in person?

For most common presentations, yes. Your psychologist will say if another format suits you better.

Important: This is general information, not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. If you are in crisis, call Lifeline 13 11 14 or the NSW Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511. In an emergency, call 000.