Accessible Psychological Interventions

Who can access the service:

Individuals must:

• live or work in the City of Port Phillip or Stonnington.
• be diagnosed with mild to moderate mental illness* (except for children under 12 or people at risk of suicide), such as mild depression or anxiety.
• have a health care card or unable to access counselling.
• be expected to benefit from counselling and has the capacity to engage in therapy at this point in time.

*If a person does not have a confirmed diagnosis, an assessment will be conducted and a clinical diagnosis determined by the API provider confirming eligibility for the service.

Who may be ineligible for API services?

• A person with severe mental illness which significantly impacts their life or at risk of mental health decline (Mental Health Integrated Complex Care (MHICC) may be a more appropriate service).
• Acute suicidality requiring CATT or emergency service response.
• Assessment that case management is a priority at that point in time e.g. significant competing needs like homelessness, substance use, involvement in the criminal justice system.

How to refer to API services

Referrals can be made by anyone including self-referrals, GPs, and community organisations.

GPs can fax referrals including: GP Mental Health Treatment Plan
Referrals can be made to SEMPHN Mental Health Intake:

• phone (business hours only): 1800 862 363
• Fax: 1300 354 053

Referral forms (including medical software templates) are available on the SEMPHN Mental Health Intake page.

Other referral forms are accepted if they contain the required information. Client consent is needed to receive services.

API services do not provide after-hours or emergency mental health advice or support.  In case of emergency, call 000.

This service has been made possible through funding provided by the Australian Government under the South Eastern Melbourne PHN.