Fees
Melissa Howie Consulting is committed to providing transparent information about fees and payment options. Fees vary depending on the type of service and session length.
Appointments are typically scheduled in 50–minute sessions, with some specialised services offering longer sessions as required. Sessions can be accessed through a variety of funding pathways, including Medicare, private health rebates, NDIS support, or self-funded arrangements. Clients are encouraged to discuss their eligibility for rebates or funding prior to their first session to ensure the most suitable option is used.
Below is a summary of the standard session fees and payment details (effective as of 1 July 2025).
Payment Options
Fees are payable at the end of each session and can be made via direct deposit or Visa/Mastercard through the secure payment service Stripe. Please note that AMEX is not accepted.
Referral and Funding Options
Melissa Howie Consulting offers flexible options for accessing therapy services. Clients can be referred through a range of pathways or choose to self-refer, and several funding options may be available depending on individual circumstances. Below is an overview of the accepted referral types and funding pathways to help you understand how sessions can be accessed and supported financially.
1. Mental health care plan (MHCP) – Medicare
Medicare rebates may be provided for up to 10 sessions per calendar year. This may move across calendar years. At the end of the session, the full fee is charged to the client’s credit card, and the Medicare rebate will be credited to the client’s bank account. In most instances, the rebate appears in the client’s bank account within 24 hours. MHCPs can be approved by a general practitioner (GP), psychiatrist or paediatrician.
2. Self-funded referrals and clinical supervision
You can self-refer — choosing to pay the full fee without using an MHCP or private health fund rebate. Self-funded clients do not need a referral, with supervision provided at the same hourly rate.
3. Private health rebates
Private health rebates will differ depending on each client’s individual policy. It is the client’s responsibility to check their private health fund and eligibility for claims, as funds vary. An invoice can be provided at the end of the appointment, with which the client can claim through their fund online.
4. National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)
Plan-managed and self-managed funds are accepted. Fees will vary depending on plan type (refer to above for fee structure). The full fee will be paid at the end of the session by credit card or direct deposit.
