Mental health
Assessment, Mental Health Treatment Plans (bulk billed where eligible), medication management and referral to psychologists and psychiatrists.
East Hills Medical Centre provides GP mental health care at 17 Maclaurin Avenue, East Hills, for anxiety, depression, stress, sleep problems, grief, trauma and other conditions. A first appointment is a long consultation in which your GP listens, assesses what is happening and works out a plan with you. That plan may include a Mental Health Treatment Plan, which gives Medicare rebates for up to ten sessions a year with a psychologist, medication where it will help, lifestyle changes, and referral to a psychiatrist for more complex conditions. Mental Health Treatment Plans and their reviews are bulk billed for eligible patients on weekdays but are not available on Sundays. Veterans can be referred to Open Arms. If you are in crisis, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or the NSW Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511 at any time, or call 000 if there is immediate danger. Book a long consultation and ask for the doctor you feel most comfortable with.
How a first appointment works
Your GP asks what has been happening, how it affects sleep, work, relationships and daily life, and about your history and supports. Together you decide on the next step. Nothing you say is shared without your consent, except where safety requires it.
Mental Health Treatment Plans
A plan lets you claim Medicare rebates for up to ten psychology sessions per calendar year. Your GP writes the plan, refers you to a psychologist of your choice, and reviews progress after the first six sessions. Plans are bulk billed for eligible patients on weekdays.
Urgent help
- Emergency: 000
- Lifeline: 13 11 14, 24 hours
- NSW Mental Health Line: 1800 011 511, 24 hours
- Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
- Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800
- Open Arms (veterans and families): 1800 011 046
Questions patients ask
Is a mental health appointment bulk billed?
Mental Health Treatment Plans and reviews are bulk billed for eligible patients on weekdays. Other consultations follow the standard fee schedule.
Do you have a psychologist on site?
No. Your GP refers you to a psychologist in the area, or one you already see, under a Mental Health Treatment Plan.
Can I talk to a doctor by phone?
Patients seen in the practice in the last 12 months can book a telehealth phone consultation. A first mental health assessment should be done face to face.
Book an appointment
Online through HotDoc at any hour, or call reception on (02) 9773 3676 during opening hours. Mon to Fri 8:30am to 5pm, Sun 9am to 2pm.