There are 7 Primary Health Network (PHN) regions in Queensland.
Primary Health Networks (PHNs) are independent organisations that are funded to coordinate primary health care in their region. PHNs assess the needs of their community and commission health services so that people in their region can get coordinated health care where and when they need it.
PHNs have 4 primary roles. They commission health services to meet the needs of people in their regions. Address gaps in primary health care. Work closely with general practitioners (GPs) and other health professionals to build the capacity of the health workforce capacity to deliver high-quality care. Integrate health services at the local level to create a better experience for people, encourage better use of health resources, and eliminate service duplication.
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Services Offered
Every PHN in Queensland has programs to assist people in accessing affordable and effective mental health treatment and support.
If you are having trouble accessing counselling or any other treatment related to your mental health, go to the website of your local PHN and have a look at what they offer. Some have programs that you can refer to yourself, but most will need a referral from your GP.
If your GP is not familiar with the PHN services please direct them to our website. Any referral forms they need can be found there and we can speak with them to explain how they can help you access our services.
PHN’s offer a number of pathways for people to access timely, high quality counselling and psychological treatment. Often they will link people with local private providers who do not have long waitlists and cover the full cost of treatment.
Services are available for children and adults.
Fees and Payment
Services are either low cost or free.
Services Offered To: Adults Teens Children
Payment: Sliding Scale Pro-bono
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Were You Able to Make an Appointment?
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Do you know the reason they are not accepting clients?
A community counseling agency is a group therapy practice that offers affordable mental health services. Most are independent non-profit agencies, state agencies, or publicly-funded agencies. A few may restrict who is eligible for services, so it is a good idea to check when you call.
Community counseling agencies are generally more affordable than other therapy providers, but how much more affordable they are will depend on whether you qualify for a discount or sliding scale fee (or if they accept your insurance). Many, but not all, have a policy that they won't turn away anyone due to inability to pay. You should ask about their fees when you first call.
Expect to talk to kind people who want to help you find the care you need. Most community agencies strive to connect you with a live person within 24 hours, if not immediately. If you're asked to hold or leave a message, don't give up; just leave a message and wait. You should hear back pretty quickly.
Most agencies try to set up an initial assessment appointment within a week (some do within 24 hours), though the waitlist to start therapy is usually longer—about a few weeks on average. If you're not eligible or if the agency is not right for you, it's usually still worth it to call or drop in, because staff are knowledgeable about local options and can often refer you to one.