Booking the right appointment

Ask for a 'longer consultation' or 'mental health assessment' when booking. A standard 15-minute appointment is generally not long enough for a proper plan. Some clinics have specific slot lengths (30 or 45 minutes) for this. If your usual GP is not comfortable with mental health, another GP in the practice may be more experienced — this is not disloyalty, it is fit.

What to bring and say

Bring a written summary of what has been happening — for how long, how severe, how it affects daily life. Specific examples matter more than general descriptions. If you have been tracking mood or symptoms, bring the notes. You can say directly: 'I would like to talk about a Mental Health Treatment Plan.' GPs are used to this request and it does not require justification.

What happens during the appointment

Your GP will do a structured assessment (often using standardised questionnaires like the K10 or DASS-21). They will discuss what treatment options fit your situation. If eligible, they prepare the plan document, provide a referral to a psychologist or other mental health professional, and give you a copy. You can bring a support person if that helps.

What to flag to your prescriber

Raise these at any review

  • Any GP who dismisses the request without proper assessment.
  • Being told MHTPs are 'not for you' without clear reason.
  • Difficulty finding a psychologist accepting referrals.
  • Any concern about the assessment feeling rushed or inadequate.

Frequently asked questions

Can any GP write a Mental Health Treatment Plan?

Most GPs can. Some have additional mental health training and may be more experienced with complex situations.

How long does the appointment take?

Typically 30 to 45 minutes for a proper plan. Book a longer consultation when scheduling.

Do I need a diagnosis first?

The GP will assess and diagnose during the appointment. You do not need a prior formal diagnosis to request a plan.

Related reading

What Is a Mental Health Treatment Plan in Australia? When to See a Psychiatrist Rather Than a GP

Evidence and sources referenced

  • NICE Guideline NG222 — Depression in adults: treatment and management (United Kingdom).
  • Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP) — Clinical Practice Guidelines for Mood Disorders.
  • NPS MedicineWise — patient and prescriber resources on antidepressants (Australia).
  • Royal College of Psychiatrists — patient information on antidepressants.
  • TGA and FDA — product information for SSRI and SNRI classes.
  • Maudsley Prescribing Guidelines in Psychiatry.

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