Find a Mental Health Professional for Alcohol, Substances & Addiction

About Alcohol, Substances & Addiction support

Addiction affects people from all walks of life. Whether it involves alcohol, other substances, gambling, or other compulsive behaviours, the experience can feel overwhelming and isolating. It is also treatable. Therapists who specialise in addiction use approaches like motivational interviewing, CBT, and harm reduction to help you understand what is driving the behaviour and build a path toward change. You do not need to have hit rock bottom to seek help, and you do not need to commit to complete abstinence to start. Support is available for people at all stages, including those who have just started to notice a problem and those in long-term recovery.

Support resources

• Alcoholics Anonymous Australia

  Free peer support meetings for people with alcohol use disorder across Australia.

• Turning Point

  Research and treatment centre for alcohol and drug concerns, with online resources and a telephone service.

• SMART Recovery Australia

  Evidence-based, non-12-step peer support program for all addictions, with online and in-person meetings.

Further reading

• Gambling help in Australia: how to find support for you or someone you love

  Gambling harm is more common than many people realise. Here is where to find help in Australia and what to expect.

• How to get a Mental Health Care Plan

  How to access Medicare-rebated therapy sessions through your GP, including what to expect and how many sessions you can access each year.

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 a mental health condition?

Yes. Addiction is recognised as a complex health condition involving changes to brain function, behaviour, and mental health. It often co-occurs with anxiety, depression, and trauma. This is why working with a mental health professional, alongside or before medical detox, is often part of effective treatment.

What is the difference between abuse, dependence, and addiction?

These terms are sometimes used interchangeably, but clinically they describe different levels of severity. A psychologist or doctor can help clarify what applies to your situation and what that means for treatment. What matters most is how the behaviour is affecting your life.

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.

Do I need to stop completely to get help?

Not necessarily. Harm reduction is a recognised and effective approach that focuses on reducing risk and impact without requiring abstinence as a starting goal. Talk to a therapist about what approach suits your situation and values.

Can I get a Medicare rebate for addiction counselling?

In many cases, yes. A Mental Health Care Plan from your GP can cover sessions with a psychologist for substance-related concerns. Some specialised addiction services are also funded through state health departments and are available at no cost.

What if I am supporting someone who has an addiction?

Family and friends are significantly affected by a loved one's addiction. Support is available specifically for you, including groups like Al-Anon (for family of people with alcohol concerns) and individual therapy. Looking after your own wellbeing is not selfish.