Frequently asked questions

There is no out-of-pocket cost to access the service if you have a referral to Raphael Services and a Mental Health Care Plan – these are organised by seeing your GP. In the meantime, you can view our locations to find a service near you and phone to make your first appointment.

Simply find the Raphael Services closest to you and phone 1800 292 292 to make a booking for an initial assessment. You will need to make an appointment to see your GP before you visit us, to get a referral and a Mental Health Care Plan.

When making an appointment with your GP for a referral and Mental Health Care Plan, you will need to advise your GP’s reception staff that you would like an assessment appointment so they can book appropriate time. When you attend the appointment, the GP will ask you questions about how you are feeling and do a quick assessment with you - this is a Medicare requirement in order to create a Mental Health Care Plan for you.

Your GP will then send a referral to our service and we will contact you directly to book an appointment with one of our clinicians.

Most initial appointments are able to be booked within a fortnight of your enquiry.

You are most welcome to bring your baby to your appointment, however if you would find it easier to talk to us without distraction, you can also leave your baby with a trusted friend or family member. We do not provide crèche or childcare services at any of our locations.

We usually try to involve your support people as much as possible, but it is entirely your decision as to whether they are involved.

We have Raphael Services in NSW, WA and Victoria. See our locations page for the service near you.

We understand that life as a parent is unpredictable and that occasionally you won’t be able to keep an appointment. So we can offer that time to another parent who needs support, we ask that you let us know as soon as possible if you are unable to attend a scheduled appointment. Please call us on 1800 292 292 to cancel or reschedule your appointment. 

If you feel like you are in a high level of distress and need help immediately, don’t wait. Please ensure your baby is safe and contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or attend your local hospital emergency department. Alternatively, make an appointment to see your GP to discuss your concerns and make a plan for support. Raphael Services is a community-based service and as such supports people who are not in acute distress and access to our services is by appointment only.

Other helplines: 

PANDA’s National Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Helpline
1300 726 306
9.00am to 7.30pm, Monday to Friday (AEST/AEDT)

Beyond Blue National Helpline
1300 22 4636
24 hours/7 days a week

Lifeline National Helpline
13 11 14
24 hours/7 days a week

We’ve got some advice on how to care for yourself, how to seek professional help and additional information.