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Overseas Student Health Cover

OSHC Psychology Sessions Guide

If you are studying in Australia and unsure how OSHC works for psychology, start by checking your insurer’s rules and asking your GP for a clear referral.

This guide explains the practical steps for overseas students who want to ask about psychology sessions, GP referrals, invoices, and possible OSHC claiming.

Quick answer

OSHC may help with psychology session costs, but the rules depend on your insurer and policy. Before booking, check whether psychology or clinical psychology is covered, whether you need a GP referral first, and how much you may need to pay yourself.

Breathe-n-Smile Psychology can provide appointment invoices and receipts for your claim. Your insurer decides whether a benefit is payable.

How to get the right GP referral

Book a longer GP appointment and say you would like to discuss a psychology referral for OSHC claiming. If your insurer asks for a mental health treatment plan, ask the GP whether this is appropriate for your situation.

You can ask the GP to address the referral to:

Breathe-n-Smile Psychology
Bandai Choi, Clinical Psychologist

Phone: 0431 853 927
Email: reception@breathe-n-smile.com
Secure messaging: HealthLink EDI breathen; Medical Objects 1620212Y

Helpful pages

These pages may help you compare appointment options before you contact the practice.

Common questions

Is OSHC the same as Medicare?

No. OSHC is private health insurance for overseas students. Most international students are not eligible for Medicare, unless they have separate eligibility through another arrangement.

Can I claim a session if I get the referral later?

Ask your OSHC insurer before booking. The safest option is usually to check your policy and obtain the referral before your first psychology appointment. You can still book a 15-minute call first if you want to understand the most suitable next step.

Can I use OSHC for assessment?

It depends on your insurer and policy. Ask whether assessment, therapy, reports, or clinical psychology services are covered and what wording they need on invoices.

Can sessions be in Cantonese or Mandarin?

Yes. Being able to express yourself in the language that feels most natural can help sessions feel clearer, safer, and easier to begin.