Frequently asked questions
General information about how Referral House works. We can't give clinical or medical advice. Please speak with your GP or psychologist about your health.
For clients and the public
What is Referral House?
We're a matching service. We help people, and the GPs who refer them, find a registered psychologist whose focus areas, availability and session options may suit them. We don't provide therapy ourselves.
Is Referral House an emergency or crisis service?
No. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 000. For 24/7 crisis support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
Does it cost anything to be matched?
No. There's no charge to you for matching. You pay the psychologist's own fee for sessions, and you may be able to claim a Medicare rebate.
Do I need a GP referral?
No, you can contact us yourself. To claim Medicare rebates under Better Access, you'll usually need a Mental Health Treatment Plan and referral from your GP. See our plan guide.
How long does it take to be matched?
We aim to send matches within 1 business day. It depends on availability, and we'll tell you if we can't find a match.
Can I see someone by telehealth?
Yes. We're telehealth first, so you can be matched with a psychologist from anywhere in Australia and have sessions from home. In-person options depend on your location.
Can I claim Medicare for telehealth sessions?
Eligible people with a valid Mental Health Treatment Plan and referral can claim Better Access rebates for telehealth psychology sessions. Conditions apply. See Services Australia and our plan guide.
Can I choose my psychologist?
Yes. We suggest psychologists who may suit you, and you decide who to see. There's no obligation to book.
What if the psychologist isn't the right fit?
That happens. Let us know and we'll help you find another option.
What happens to my personal information?
We collect only what we need to make a match, share it only with the psychologist you choose and, with your consent, your GP, and we never sell it. See our privacy policy.
For GPs
How do I refer a patient?
Write your referral to "Referral House" as you would to a named psychologist. While our secure pathway is being set up, email us first with your practice name and please don't email clinical details. See the how-to-refer guide.
Is my referral still valid for Medicare?
Medicare requirements are the same as for any Better Access referral, including the MyMedicare or usual medical practitioner rules that apply from 1 November 2025. The psychologist your patient chooses receives your referral and plan.
How quickly will my patient be contacted?
We aim to send matches within 1 business day of receiving the referral. Availability varies, and we'll tell you if we can't find a suitable match.
Will I hear back?
Yes. With your patient's consent, we confirm which psychologist and practice they've chosen. The psychologist's reporting to you continues as usual.
Does it cost my practice anything?
No. GPs and practices never pay, and never receive any payment or benefit for referrals.
Who is responsible for clinical care?
You and the treating psychologist. Referral House is a matching and coordination service and doesn't provide clinical advice or risk assessment.
Can you take urgent or high-risk patients?
No. We're not suitable for urgent or crisis care. Please use your usual acute mental health pathways.
For psychologists
What does it cost?
Founding listings are free to claim. We charge $49 + GST only when a client we matched with you attends their first session. There's no subscription, no upfront fee and no charge for no-shows or later sessions.
Who writes my profile?
We draft it from your public practice information, with AI assistance, following AHPRA's advertising guidelines. You review and approve it before it goes live, and you can change it any time.
Will you use my photo?
Only if you tick "use this photo" or send us one. You can remove it whenever you like.
I work in a group practice. Can I join?
Please check your employment or contractor agreement first. Some agreements limit private or telehealth work outside the practice. We ask about this at sign-up and can list you through your practice where that suits.
Do I have to accept every match?
No. You can decline a referral that isn't within your scope or availability, and you can pause your listing.
Do clients book through Referral House?
No. Clients book with your practice directly, using your usual systems and fees.
How do you check registration?
We check the public register of practitioners on the AHPRA website before listing you, and periodically after that.
Can I leave?
Yes, at any time. Email us and we'll remove your listing.