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Seeing a psychiatrist via telehealth

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Some psychiatrists do consultations over the telephone or using video calls (for example via Zoom or FaceTime).

Instead of meeting in person, you and the psychiatrist talk to each other using a computer, tablet or phone. If you are using video calling you and the psychiatrist will see each other on the screen and hear each other talking in real time.

This is sometimes called 'telehealth' or 'telepsychiatry'.

Studies show that online and telephone consultations can work just as well as face-to face consultations.

This type of consultation may be particularly useful if you live in a rural or remote area, or find it difficult to travel.

How does an online or telephone consultation work?

You might do the consultation in a local hospital, a GP clinic, health service, or at home. The psychiatrist will be at their workplace.

Each psychiatrist (or health service) has their own preference for which software or app they use. They will give you instructions before the appointment.

During your appointment, the psychiatrist will speak with you and ask you questions in the same way they would at a face-to-face consultation.

Who can have online consultations?

Contact your psychiatrist to ask if you can have your appointment via telehealth.

Sometimes a face-to-face consultation is needed, for example for a physical check-up or to prescribe some medications.

What do I need in order to have a telehealth appointment?

If you do a video consultation at a hospital or clinic, they will provide all the equipment for you.

If you do a videp consultation at home, it's best to have:

  • a quiet, private room
  • a fast and reliable internet connection
  • a computer, tablet or smartphone (your psychiatrist will tell you which devices will work with their software).

As a guide, you will need internet speeds of at least 0.8 Mbps (megabits per second) for downloads and 0.25 Mbps for uploads. Faster speeds will give you better quality video. You can test your internet speed here.

If you use a computer, it must have a microphone and a webcam. Most newer computers will have these built in.

Your psychiatrist will give you instructions about how to download the video conference software. You won't need to buy any software.

How do I arrange a telehealth consultation?

Usually, you will need a referral from a GP to see a psychiatrist either in person or via telehealth.

The RANZCP’s Find a Psychiatrist directory lists Australian and New Zealand psychiatrists with a private practice who offer telehealth.

To use the search, check the Only psychiatrists who offer telehealth (any location) box.

How much does telehealth cost?

Australia

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic the Australian Government has made some changes to Medicare rebates for telehealth.
 
All Australian Medicare card holders can access Medicare rebates for telehealth or telephone consultations with a psychiatrist. Contact your psychiatrist to find out how much your appointment will cost.  

If you live in a regional, rural, or remote area, or an aged care facility, or are under the care of a Aboriginal health service and were already receiving telehealth consultations, your psychiatrist will continue to see you under your current arrangement. 

Read more about the cost of seeing a psychiatrist in Australia

New Zealand

Health Navigator NZ provides detailed information on how to access telehealth services in New Zealand.

Tips for successful consultations

  • Read the instructions your psychiatrist provides.
  • Make the room as quiet as possible – turn off radios and TVs.
  • If you have young children, arrange care in advance so you don’t get interrupted.
  • Turn off your mobile phone.
  • If possible, test the connection and software before your first consultation.
  • Try to make sure your face is well-lit.
  • Don't sit directly in front of a window, because it can make it hard to see your face.
  • If you have someone supporting you, check that the webcam includes them in the shot.
  • There might be some delay between one person speaking and the other person hearing it. Wait for the other person to finish speaking before you start.
  • Avoid using the internet for other things at the same time (for example streaming TV, downloading movies or playing games).

Q&A about online consultations

Do I have to have an online consultation?

Your psychiatrist can discuss whether a face-to-face consultation is essential.

Can I have someone with me?

A family member, friend or carer can usually sit in on your appointment if you want. Let the psychiatrist know that they'll be attending.

You can also have an interpreter, health professional or multicultural worker with you.

If you have the appointment in your GP's clinic, your GP might sit in with you.

What about privacy and confidentiality?

The same privacy and confidentiality requirements apply for face-to-face and online consultations.

The psychiatrist will take notes, but your consultation will not be recorded, unless you agree to it being recorded for treatment purposes.

Can I have my consultation with the psychiatrist by telephone?

You can use the telephone if no other option is available. Video call (for example FaceTime or Zoom) is preferred because seeing your face while you talk provides important information for the psychiatrist.

What if I need to cancel the appointment?

Online consultations can be complicated to set up, so do your best to keep the appointment.

If you need to cancel, let the psychiatrist know as soon as you can.

If you cancel close to the appointment time, there may be a cost involved. Speak to your psychiatrist for more information about their cancellation policy.

Remember

  • Speak to your GP or health service first about telehealth options for psychiatry.
  • Find psychiatrists who offer telehealth in the Find a Psychiatrist directory.
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Page last reviewed November 2024 | C1028V2

This is a general guide only, and does not replace individual medical advice. Please speak to your doctor for advice about your situation. The RANZCP is not liable for any consequences arising from relying on this information. Subject matter experts, people with lived experience of mental illness and carers all contributed to this fact sheet.