Our Services
Mental Health Support in Lismore
Mental health deserves the same care and attention as any physical health concern. At Lismore Doctors, we provide a supportive environment for patients of all ages to talk openly and get the care they need, whatever you’re going through.
If you’ve been putting off speaking to someone, we encourage you to book an appointment. We’re here to help.
Mental Health in General Practice
Your GP is often the first point of contact for mental health concerns, and for good reason. GPs are well-placed to assess your mental health, provide initial support, develop a care plan, and connect you with the right professionals for ongoing treatment.
At Lismore Doctors, our GPs consider your emotional, psychological, and physical wellbeing as part of your care, rather than in isolation.
What We Can Help With
Our GPs can assist patients who may be experiencing a wide range of mental health concerns, including:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and low mood
- Sleep difficulties
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family difficulties
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress
- Postnatal depression and perinatal mental health
- Burnout and work-related stress
- Mental health concerns in children and young people
This list is not exhaustive. If you are concerned about your mental health or the mental health of someone you care for, we encourage you to book an appointment and speak with one of our GPs.
GP Mental Health Treatment Plans
If your GP determines that ongoing mental health support is appropriate, they may develop a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan for you. This plan outlines your mental health needs and goals and may include a referral to a psychologist or other mental health professional.
A GP Mental Health Treatment Plan may allow eligible patients to access Medicare rebates for a set number of consultations with a psychologist or other registered mental health professional per calendar year. Your GP will discuss whether this plan is suitable for your individual circumstances.
Referrals to Mental Health Professionals
When additional or specialist support is needed, our GPs can provide referrals to a range of mental health professionals, including psychologists available through our allied health team. We work to connect you with the right support, both within our clinic and across the Northern Rivers community.
Support for Children and Young People
Children and teenagers can experience mental health challenges too. Our GPs can provide mental health assessments and support for children and young people of all ages, and connect families with appropriate services.
If you are concerned about your child’s emotional wellbeing or behaviour, a conversation with your GP is a good place to start.
A Note on Crisis Support
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or experiencing a mental health crisis, please call 000 or go to your nearest emergency department.
For urgent mental health support outside of clinic hours, the following services are available:
- Lifeline: 13 11 14 (24 hours, 7 days)
- Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 (24 hours, 7 days)
- Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 (for children and young people)
For non-urgent concerns outside of our opening hours, please contact Health Direct on 1800 022 222.
Bulk Billing for Mental Health Consultations
All patients with a valid Medicare card are bulk billed for eligible GP consultations at Lismore Doctors, meaning most standard visits come at no out-of-pocket cost.
Some services related to your mental health care, such as psychology consultations, may incur a separate fee. Our team will always be upfront about any applicable costs before your appointment. If you have questions about fees, call us on (02) 5658 5644, Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
How to Book
You can book an immunisation appointment at Lismore Doctors through HotDoc, available 24 hours a day.
- Visit hotdoc.com.au/medical-centres/lismore-NSW-2480/lismore-doctors/doctors
- Select your preferred GP or choose the first available appointment
- Pick a date and time that suits you
- Enter your details and confirm the booking
- You’ll receive a confirmation by SMS or email
Prefer to call? Ring us on (02) 5658 5644, Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
FAQ
Yes. You don't need to be in crisis to speak with a GP. If something doesn't feel right, that's reason enough to come in.
All patients with a valid Medicare card are bulk billed for eligible GP consultations. Psychology and allied health services may incur a separate fee. Our team will advise you of any costs beforehand.
Contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636, both available 24 hours a day. In an emergency, call 000.
