How do I find an addiction counsellor or psychologist in Australia?

Search Mental Health Directory by suburb to find psychologists and counsellors who specialise in addiction and recovery support. You can filter by Medicare rebates, NDIS, bulk billing, or telehealth to find the right match.

Is addiction counselling covered by Medicare in Australia?

Yes. With a Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP, you can access up to 10 Medicare-rebated psychology sessions per year to address substance use and addiction. Search Mental Health Directory with the Medicare filter.

What types of therapy are used for addiction recovery?

Common evidence-based approaches include Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Many practitioners on Mental Health Directory who specialise in addiction use these approaches.

Find a Mental Health Professional for Alcohol, Substances & Addiction

Search our directory of verified therapists, psychologists and counsellors specialising in Alcohol, Substances & Addiction across Australia. Filter by location, funding type, telehealth availability and more.

Find a Alcohol, Substances & Addiction specialist

Browse Alcohol, Substances & Addiction sub-categories

Alcohol Use & Dependency Cannabis Use Drug Use & Dependency Dual Diagnosis — Mental Health & Substance Use Prescription Medication Misuse

About Alcohol, Substances & Addiction support

Seeking support for alcohol use, drug use, or addiction in Australia takes real courage, and effective help is available. This category covers a wide range of concerns, including alcohol dependence, cannabis use, illicit drug use, prescription medication misuse, and dual diagnosis (where a substance use concern exists alongside another mental health condition such as depression or anxiety). Addiction is a complex health issue, not a moral failing, and the most effective treatment approaches address both the substance use and the underlying factors that drive it. Evidence-based therapies include Motivational Interviewing, CBT for substance use, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and harm reduction counselling. Many practitioners work in collaboration with GPs, psychiatrists, and community drug and alcohol services. In Australia, Medicare rebates may apply where substance use is linked to a diagnosed mental health condition, through a Mental Health Treatment Plan. NDIS funding can support people where addiction significantly affects daily functioning. Some community-based and government-funded services offer free or low-cost support. Telehealth is available through many practitioners listed in this directory, which can be particularly helpful for people managing shame or who live in areas with limited local services.

Frequently asked questions

How do I find an addiction counsellor or psychologist in Australia?: Search Mental Health Directory by suburb to find psychologists and counsellors who specialise in addiction and recovery support. You can filter by Medicare rebates, NDIS, bulk billing, or telehealth to find the right match.
Is addiction counselling covered by Medicare in Australia?: Yes. With a Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP, you can access up to 10 Medicare-rebated psychology sessions per year to address substance use and addiction. Search Mental Health Directory with the Medicare filter.
What types of therapy are used for addiction recovery?: Common evidence-based approaches include Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Many practitioners on Mental Health Directory who specialise in addiction use these approaches.