Find a Mental Health Professional for Men's Mental Health

About Men's Mental Health support

Men in Australia seek mental health support less often than women, not because they experience fewer challenges, but because the barriers to seeking help are higher. Stigma, cultural expectations around self-reliance, and uncertainty about what therapy actually involves all play a role. Practitioners listed here work specifically with men, or have significant experience doing so, and understand what it takes to make therapy useful and accessible for men. Common reasons men seek support include depression and low mood, anxiety and stress, anger and emotional regulation difficulties, relationship breakdowns, grief, substance use, work pressure, and the adjustment challenges that come with major life events such as separation, job loss, fatherhood, and retirement. Some men also come to therapy after significant trauma, including childhood experiences, occupational trauma in emergency services or defence, and family violence. Practitioners experienced in men''s mental health understand that many men take longer to trust the process and work at a pace that suits their style. Telehealth has made it significantly easier for men to access support without taking time off work or being seen walking into a clinic. Many practitioners offer evening or early morning appointments for this reason. Medicare rebates apply through a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan. Some men also access initial support through their employer''s Employee Assistance Program, which provides free confidential sessions without a GP referral.

Support resources

• Beyond Blue

  Australia's leading mental health organisation with specific resources for men, including information on depression, anxiety, and how to find help.

• Movember Foundation: Mo Space

  The Movember Foundation funds men's mental health research and programmes globally, with resources and support pathways specifically designed for men.

Further reading

• Psychologist vs psychiatrist: which do you need?

  The key differences explained in plain language, including who can prescribe medication and what each type of appointment involves.

• How to talk to your GP about mental health

  Word-for-word phrases to use when booking and in the room. Useful if you are not sure how to start the conversation.

Frequently asked questions

How do I find a psychologist or therapist who specialises in men's mental health in Australia?

Search this directory and filter for the men's mental health category to find practitioners who describe experience working with men. You can also contact MensLine Australia (1300 78 99 78) or Beyond Blue for referrals. Many men find it helpful to read practitioner profiles and look for someone whose style and language feels approachable, as the fit between client and therapist matters significantly for outcomes.

How do I know if I need to see a psychologist?

If your mood, thoughts, or behaviour are getting in the way of your work, relationships, sleep, or enjoyment of life, and this has been going on for more than a few weeks, it is worth speaking with someone. You do not need to be in crisis to access support. Many men find that talking to a psychologist helps them understand patterns they have carried for years without realising it. A GP is a good first step and can advise on whether a referral is appropriate.

Is therapy confidential? Will my employer or family find out?

Yes, therapy is confidential. Practitioners are legally and ethically required to keep what you say private, with narrow exceptions: if there is serious risk of harm to you or someone else, or in rare legal circumstances. Your employer will not be told you are seeing a psychologist. If you access sessions through an EAP, the provider may report aggregate data to your employer (e.g. total number of sessions used) but never individual identifying information.

Is men's mental health therapy covered by Medicare in Australia?

Yes. With a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan, you can access Medicare rebates for up to 10 individual sessions per calendar year with an eligible practitioner — registered psychologists, accredited mental health social workers, and mental health occupational therapists. Counsellors who are not AHPRA-registered are not covered by Medicare, though they can be more affordable and do not require a GP referral. Some psychologists bulk bill, meaning no out-of-pocket cost. If cost is a barrier, ask your GP about bulk billing options or community mental health services in your area.

What if I do not know where to start or am not sure if I need therapy?

Starting is often the hardest part. A good first step is to book an appointment with your GP and describe what you have been experiencing, even if it is hard to put into words. Your GP can assess your situation and help you decide on the right level of support. You can also call Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636) or MensLine (1300 78 99 78) for a confidential conversation that does not commit you to anything.

What actually happens in a therapy session?

In a first session, the psychologist will ask questions to understand your situation, what you are hoping to get from therapy, and your history. It is more of a conversation than an interrogation. Subsequent sessions focus on whatever is most relevant to you: unpacking a specific situation, building skills for managing stress or anger, or working through something from the past. You do not have to talk about things you are not ready for. A good psychologist will follow your lead.

Does Medicare cover men's mental health support?

Yes. A GP can provide a Mental Health Treatment Plan that gives access to Medicare rebates for up to 10 individual psychology sessions per calendar year. This covers a broad range of presentations including depression, anxiety, anger, relationship stress, and adjustment difficulties. Beyond Blue also provides a free online support service and a phone line (1300 22 4636) available 24 hours a day if you are not ready to book an appointment yet.

Are there psychologists who specialise in working with men?

Yes. Some psychologists specifically focus on men's mental health and have additional training or experience in the presentations most common in men: emotional regulation, anger, identity, occupational trauma, and the barriers men face in engaging with support. You can search this directory and filter by speciality to find practitioners with experience in men's mental health. Telehealth appointments are also worth considering if finding local availability is difficult.