How Much Do Counsellors Charge Per Hour in Australia?

Investing in your emotional wellbeing can be life changing, but it’s natural to wonder about the counselling cost before starting. If you’re considering therapy, you may be asking: How much do counsellors charge per hour in Australia? The answer depends on several variables including the practitioner’s qualifications, session format, rebates, and your private health insurance.

This guide explores current rates, available rebates, and how to make informed choices when seeking counselling services across Australia.

Typical Fees for Counselling and Therapy

In Australia, the cost of a counselling session varies widely depending on the provider’s experience, location, and qualifications. Here’s an overview of what you can expect to pay per hour:

Counsellors usually offer more affordable counselling fees than psychologists or psychiatrists, making them a common starting point for many individuals. However, only registered psychologists and certain social workers are eligible for Medicare rebates, which impacts the full fee you might pay,  you can see our therapy costs here.

Understanding Medicare Rebates

Australia’s mental health care system provides support through the Better Access initiative. This allows individuals with a mental health care plan to receive up to 10 rebated psychology sessions per calendar year.

• General psychologist rebate: ~$93.35
• Clinical psychologist rebate: ~$137.05

These rebates help offset the cost of therapy but are only applicable to eligible providers. Counsellors, unless also registered psychologists, are not currently included in Medicare’s schedule.

What Influences the Hourly Rate?

Several factors affect the hourly rate charged by therapists and counsellors:

1. Qualifications and Accreditation

• Counsellors usually hold diplomas or bachelor’s degrees in counselling or psychology services. They support clients with personal problems, stress, grief, and more.
• Psychologists are university-trained professionals registered with AHPRA, focusing on mental health treatment, assessments, and interventions.
• Clinical psychologists hold advanced degrees and specialise in treating complex conditions such as trauma, anxiety, and depression.
• Psychiatrists are medical doctors, able to diagnose and prescribe medication.

2. Type and Format of Session

• Individual counselling sessions typically last 50–60 minutes.
• Couples or family therapy may involve longer appointments or higher fees.
• Online or telehealth sessions may come at a reduced charge or offer discounts.

3. Location and Practice Setting

• Practitioners in major cities tend to have higher overheads, reflected in pricing.
• Regional or online-based providers may offer low fees or discounts for accessibility.

Do You Need a Referral?

A referral from a GP is required to claim Medicare rebates under a mental health care plan. This does not apply if you’re seeing a private counsellor or paying the full fee without claiming.

You can book directly with Energetics Institute without a referral.

Does Private Health Insurance Cover Counselling?

Yes — some private health insurance policies do provide rebates for counselling. It depends on:

• Whether your cover includes extras for counselling services
• The provider’s accreditation status
• The type of therapy offered (individual vs group)

Note that Medicare and private health rebates cannot be claimed for the same session.

If you’re not eligible for Medicare, private health cover can reduce counselling costs, particularly for multiple sessions.

How Many Sessions Will I Need?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The number of sessions you may require depends on:

• The nature and complexity of your concern
• Whether the therapy is short-term (e.g. solution-focused) or long-term (e.g. trauma recovery)
• Your goals, emotional readiness, and personal pace

Your therapist will typically discuss your plan after your first session. You might start with weekly sessions and then reduce frequency as progress is made.

Ways to Make Therapy More Affordable

There are several strategies to lower the cost of mental health care while still accessing high-quality support:

1. Sliding Scale and Concession Rates

Some therapists offer discounts or sliding scale options based on income. This ensures that clients facing hardship can still receive care.

2. Online Counselling

Online counselling services can be more cost-effective, with many providers charging lower per session rates for virtual appointments.

3. Group Therapy

While not suitable for all situations, group therapy can be significantly cheaper and offers the added benefit of shared experience.

4. Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)

Many employers fund a limited number of therapy sessions through EAP programs. Check with your HR department to see if you qualify.

5. Students and Youth Services

Universities and youth organisations may provide mental health treatment services with low fees, or even free support.

Why Invest in Counselling?

Whether you’re navigating a life transition, feeling emotionally stuck, or dealing with deeper psychological issues, therapy provides a safe space for self-exploration, healing, and growth.

Research shows that individuals who engage in counselling experience:

• Improved coping and emotional regulation
• Enhanced relationships and communication skills
• Reduced symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress
• Better decision-making and clarity about personal goals

For many, the return on investment from therapy includes better mental health, stronger wellbeing, and enhanced life satisfaction.

The Energetics Institute Approach

At Energetics Institute, we provide a wide range of counselling services for individuals, couples, and families in Perth and online across Australia. Our team of qualified counsellors and therapists are trained in integrative models that address the mind-body connection.

We are committed to:

• Transparent counselling fees
• Clear communication around session structure and length
• Flexible scheduling, including evening and online appointments
• Referrals to registered psychologists when Medicare rebates are required

We understand that clients often feel comfortable working with a provider who is compassionate, consistent, and focused on long-term mental health care.

Common FAQs

What’s included in a counselling session?

Each counselling session includes time to discuss your concerns, explore contributing patterns, and work on solutions. Your therapist may also provide resources or strategies to apply between sessions.

Can I claim both counselling and psychology?

Yes — you can work with both types of professionals, but not for the same issue or within overlapping appointments. Speak with your doctor or therapist about coordinating care.

What if I’m struggling to pay?

At Energetics Institute, we aim to make therapy accessible. If you’re struggling financially, let us know — we may offer discounts, recommend lower-fee practitioners, or help you explore insurance options.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the cost of therapy in Australia helps you prepare financially and emotionally for the process. While prices vary, the value of consistent mental health support is undeniable. The right therapist can help you navigate stress, improve relationships, and create positive change in your life.

Whether you’re exploring options with a counsellor, clinical psychologist, or psychologist, the important thing is to find a fit that meets your emotional needs and budget.