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When people decide they want support for their mental health, the next question is often a confusing one: where do I go? The range of services available, with different referral pathways, different eligibility criteria and different costs, can make it hard to know where to start. This is especially true for people who are already feeling overwhelmed.

Think Mental Health operates three distinct services in the ACT, each designed to meet different needs and reach different parts of the community. Here we explain what each service offers, who it is designed for, and how to access it. We have also included some immediate support options for anyone who needs help right now.

Think Mental Health private clinic

Think Mental Health’s private clinic in Deakin is a private psychology practice offering psychology, psychiatry and general practice. It is a good fit for people who:

  • Want to work with a psychologist, psychiatrist or GP who specialises in mental health.
  • Have a Mental Health Care Plan from their GP, which provides a Medicare rebate for psychology sessions.
  • Are looking for individual therapy, psychiatric assessment or medication management.
  • Prefer to self-refer or are referred by their GP or another health professional

Appointments are necessary, will require an initial (and possibly follow up) referral and incur a fee. Appointments are offered both in person and via telehealth. There is a gap fee applicable for most services, though Medicare rebates reduce the out-of-pocket cost for those with a Mental Health Care Plan. If you have private health insurance you might also be eligible for a higher rebate – ask us for more information.

The clinic is currently at capacity for new clients in some service areas. If you are unsure whether the clinic can accommodate you, the best step is to contact us directly or ask your GP to make a referral enquiry on your behalf.

You can reach our clinic on 6282 8266 or email clinic@thinkmh.com.au

Canberra and Tuggeranong Medicare Mental Health Centres

The Medicare Mental Health Centres are a free, walk-in community mental health service. There is no GP referral required and no cost to access the service. The centres are designed for people experiencing mild to moderate mental health concerns who need support but may not know where to turn.

There are two centres in the ACT:

  • Canberra Medicare Mental Health Centre, located on Childers Street in Canberra City.
  • Tuggeranong Medicare Mental Health Centre, located on the corner of Anketell and Cowlishaw Streets in Greenway.

Across both centres, there is a team of mental health professionals including Psychologists, Social Workers and Social Emotional Well-Being Workers. You can walk in during opening hours without an appointment , you don’t even need a Medicare card, or you may wish to call ahead to find out more.

The centres are well suited to people who:

  • Are not sure what kind of support they need.
  • Want to speak with a professional without the cost or barrier of a GP referral.
  • Are experiencing a difficult period and need a place to start.
  • May not be eligible for or ready for ongoing private therapy.

The Medicare Mental Health Phone Service is also available for those who prefer to speak with someone over the phone. The service provides free, confidential support for anyone seeking mental health assistance, including carer and health professionals. The service is available by calling 1800 595 212 and operates from 8.30am to 5.00pm Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays.

Think WISE: support in residential aged care

Think WISE (Wellbeing, Independence, Support and Empathy) provides psychological services for people living in residential aged care homes across the ACT. The service is funded through the ACT Primary Health Network and is provided at no cost to residents or facilities.

Think WISE is designed for people who:

  • Are living in a residential aged care home in the ACT.
  • Are experiencing low mood, anxiety, grief, social isolation or other mental health concerns.
  • Would benefit from psychological support delivered within their existing care environment.

The service operates on an in-reach model, meaning psychologists visit residents in their homes rather than asking residents to travel to a clinic. Think WISE also works alongside aged care staff to build awareness of mental health needs within facilities.

For more information, contact the Think WISE team on 02 6253 0222 or at wise@thinkmh.com.au.

If you need urgent help

If you or someone you know is in crisis or needs immediate support, please do not wait for a clinic appointment. The following free services are available around the clock:

If you are not in crisis but need to speak with someone today, the Medicare Mental Health Phone Service on 1800 595 212 is a free option that does not require a referral. This service operates from 8.30am to 5.00pm Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays.

Still not sure which service is right for you?

Mental health services can feel complicated to navigate, particularly when you are already finding things difficult.

You can contact Think Mental Health directly and our team will point you in the right direction. To get in touch, visit thinkmh.com.au or call us on 02 6282 8266.

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