Face-to-face video consultations offer even more flexibility for consumers who need mental health support

Wednesday, 1 May 2019

Clients eligible for SEMPHN-funded Accessible Psychological Interventions (API) services can now access free and secure video consultations in the comfort of their own home.

API services offer support for people with mental illnesses like mild depression or anxiety, via a range of short term psychological interventions.

South Eastern Melbourne PHN has awarded Cyber Clinic the tender to deliver the video consultations across the catchment. Expert practitioners and clients are connected securely, via Cyber Clinic’s free smartphone app.

The initiative means that people who are geographically isolated, time-poor, or have a preference for in-home services, have more options for how they get mental health care – at a level of support matched to their needs.

A support worker can help clients to set up or access the video consultations, and book their first appointment. All consultations are free of charge.

API (including API video consultations) are part of SEMPHN's Stepped Care Model for Mental Health, where people can 'step up' to higher intensity, or 'step down' to lower intensity services, as their needs change.

For referrals and more information, call SEMPHN’s Access & Referral Team on 1800 862 363 or fax 1300 354 053.