Child Developmental Assessment
Mental Health Support in Bendigo – A Safe Place to Start the Conversation
Talking about mental health isn’t always easy, but it can be an important first step. At Bendigo Doctors, our GPs understand that mental health is just as important as physical health, and we’re here to listen without judgement. Whether you’ve been struggling for a while or something has recently changed, our team provides a supportive, confidential space where you can speak openly and be guided to the most appropriate care for your situation. Your GP is often the best place to start.
Mental Health Services at Bendigo Doctors
GP Mental Health Consultations
Our GPs are here to listen to what you’re going through, assess your mental health needs, and work with you on the most appropriate way forward. You don’t need to have a diagnosis or be in crisis to speak with a GP about how you’re feeling, if something doesn’t feel right, that’s reason enough to come in.
Mental Health Care Plans
If your GP determines that ongoing mental health support would be beneficial, they can develop a Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) with you. A Mental Health Care Plan is a structured plan that outlines your mental health needs and goals, and importantly, may allow you to access Medicare-rebated sessions with a psychologist or other mental health professional.
Mental Health Care Plans are bulk billed for eligible patients with a valid Medicare card at Bendigo Doctors.
Psychology Referrals
Through a Mental Health Care Plan, your GP can refer you to a psychologist for ongoing support. Our clinic also has psychology services available, supporting more coordinated care close to home. Your GP will discuss the referral process and what to expect at your consultation.
Ongoing Mental Health Management
Mental health is rarely a one-appointment journey. Our GPs are here to support you over the long term, reviewing your Mental Health Care Plan, checking in on your progress, adjusting your care as needed, and working alongside any other health professionals involved in your care.
You Don't Have to Have All the Answers Before You Book
Many people put off seeing a GP about mental health because they’re not sure what to say, don’t want to seem like they’re making a fuss, or aren’t sure whether what they’re experiencing is “serious enough.”
The truth is, you don’t need to have the right words or a clear explanation. You can simply tell your GP that you haven’t been feeling like yourself, that things have been hard lately, or that you’d like to talk. Our team will take it from there — in a non-judgmental, empathetic, and completely confidential environment.
Bulk Billing for Mental Health Appointments in Bendigo
At Bendigo Doctors, accessible mental health care is a priority for our team. Here’s how billing works:
- GP mental health consultations: 100% bulk billed for all patients with a valid Medicare card
under 16 with a valid Medicare card - Mental Health Care Plans: bulk billed for eligible patients
- Telehealth mental health consultations: bulk billed for eligible patients where applicable
Psychology and allied health sessions accessed through a Mental Health Care Plan may attract a private fee depending on the individual practitioner. Your GP and our reception team can provide more information when setting up your care plan.
What to Expect at Your Mental Health Appointment
Your appointment is a private, one-on-one conversation with your GP. There is no pressure to share more than you’re comfortable with, you can go at your own pace, and your GP will ask questions only to better understand how they can support you, not to assess or judge you. Everything discussed is completely confidential.
Before Your Visit to Bendigo Doctors
- Standard consultations are up to 10 minutes, let our team know when booking if you feel you need more time
- If a Mental Health Care Plan or referral is recommended, your GP will explain the next steps clearly before anything is arranged
- You don’t need to prepare anything specific, just come as you are
All services are subject to clinical assessment and suitability on the day.
Mental Health Resources in Bendigo
If you need support outside of clinic hours, the following services are available:
- Lifeline — 13 11 14 | lifeline.org.au — 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention
- Beyond Blue — 1300 22 4636 | beyondblue.org.au — support for anxiety, depression, and related conditions
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 000 or go to Bendigo Hospital Emergency Department.
FAQ
No. Your GP will assess your needs at your consultation and advise whether a plan is right for your situation.
Yes. Everything discussed in your appointment is completely confidential and protected under Australian privacy law and our clinic's privacy policy.
Through a Mental Health Care Plan, your GP will develop one with you if appropriate and explain the next steps.
Telehealth consultations are available for eligible patients. Please call our clinic to confirm whether a telehealth appointment is appropriate for your situation.
Absolutely. You don't need to have the answers before you book. Simply let our team know you'd like to speak with a GP about how you've been feeling, and we'll take it from there.
We're located at Bendigo Marketplace on Mitchell Street, with easy access for patients across Bendigo and surrounding suburbs including Kangaroo Flat, Strathdale, Eaglehawk, Golden Square and Epsom.
Mental Health
Book a Mental Health Appointment in Bendigo Today
Taking that first step is often the hardest part. Our team at Bendigo Doctors is here to make it as easy as possible, with bulk billed appointments, a non-judgmental approach, and convenient access at the Bendigo Marketplace on Mitchell Street. Whenever you’re ready, we’re here.
The information on this page is general in nature and is not a substitute for personal medical advice. All services are subject to GP assessment and clinical suitability. Outcomes vary between individuals. Please consult your GP for advice relevant to your circumstances.
