Mental Health Services in Rural and Remote Areas of Australia

The challenges faced by individuals living in rural and remote areas across Australia are often compounded by limited access to specialised psychological support, amongst other important services. Anecdotal reports indicate people are waiting up to two months to see GP’s, six months to see psychologists, and up to 18 months to see psychiatrists, in some areas. This disparity in service availability can have profound implications for mental well-being, leading to increased rates of psychological distress and reduced quality of life. It is widely known that suicide rates, especially for young men, are reported at a higher rate in rural and remote communities than in urban settings. While there are a number of contributing factors to suicide rates, research illustrates access to services is a contributing factor.

Rural mental health – the reality

Research consistently highlights the unique mental health needs of rural populations. Factors such as geographical isolation, limited resources, and social stigma can create significant barriers to accessing timely and effective psychological interventions. In addition to suicide rates, studies have shown that rural communities often experience higher rates of depression, anxiety, and substance abuse compared to their urban counterparts (e.g., Judd et al., 2006). Furthermore, the scarcity of rural mental health professionals in these areas exacerbates the problem, leading to extended wait times and limited treatment options.

Telehealth: A Vital Tool for Rural Therapy

Online therapy (or telehealth) in Australian rural communities offers a convenient and accessible alternative to traditional face-to-face therapy, allowing individuals in remote Australian destinations to receive high-quality psychological support in more efficient wait times. While there is an argument to make for in person therapy being more helpful, numerous studies have demonstrated that telehealth interventions can be as effective as in-person therapy for a range of psychological disorders, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD (e.g., Backhaus et al., 2012). This is especially pertinent for individuals in rural locations that may experience difficulty traveling to in-person sessions.

What does Telehealth online therapy look like?

All sessions are booked via Zoom. You get a link in your email prior to your session, and you simply click on it – no app download or login is required. You can join via computer, laptop, or on a smartphone. Luckily, Zoom and other online platforms have developed a number of in program apps to utilise when you and your therapist wish to get more creative. This may include utilising an online whiteboard, or share videos. It is important to have a safe and quiet space away from others to engage in telehealth therapy.

What does cost and funding look like for seeing a psychologist through telehealth online therapy for rural and remote communities?

The cost of a psychology session will depend on the psychologist and the practice. However, the principles of claiming sessions on Medicare or Private Health insurance remain the same. Book in with your GP (this could be via telehealth also) to get a mental health care plan (MHCP), that way you receive approximately $90 back per session (for 10 session per year) to see a generalist psychologist, or approximately $140 back per session (again, for 10 sessions per year) when you see a clinical psychologist. Some private health insurers may cover a percentage of your sessions also. You do not need a referral to see a psychologist via telehealth, but it can help with cost and continuity of care.  

Telehealth online psychological assessments

While telehealth is highly effective for ongoing therapy, certain assessments require in-person interaction. Assessments which can be done online via telehealth are:

·       ADHD assessments (for children and adults)

·       Autism assessments (for adolescents and adults aged 15 and older)

·       Adaptive functioning assessments (for children and adults)

·       Some NDIS assessments

However, Jigsaw Psychology & Assessment is committed to providing comprehensive assessment services to rural communities by travelling to these areas when necessary. Assessments which Jigsaw clinicians travel for:

·       Autism assessments

·       Cognitive and adaptive functioning assessments

·       Academic and learning assessments

·       Large neuropsychological assessments

It is also important to provide culturally sensitive and tailored assessments that meet the unique needs of rural communities.

Jigsaw Psychology & Assessment: servicing rural and remote communities

Jigsaw Psychology & Assessment are dedicated to providing evidence-based, compassionate, and accessible psychological services to individuals across NSW and Australia, including those living in rural and remote areas. Please contact us if you would like to know more.

Jordi Tome - BA(Psych), MClinPsych

Clinical Psychologist PSY0002273079

Director, Jigsaw Psychology & Assessment