Health Funds That Cover Hypnotherapy in Australia – Your 2025 Guide
- revivalht
- Aug 4
- 3 min read
Updated: Oct 3
Do Australian Health Funds Cover Hypnotherapy?
If you’ve ever considered hypnotherapy for anxiety, quitting smoking, weight loss, or other wellbeing goals, you’ve probably asked yourself:
“Will my health insurance cover hypnotherapy sessions?”
The short answer: It depends on your health fund, your policy level, and sometimes even your provider’s qualifications.
With recent changes to natural therapy coverage in Australia, the rules around hypnotherapy benefits can be confusing. This guide breaks it down clearly so you can see exactly which funds offer rebates, what’s required, and what limitations apply.
Why This Matters if You’re Considering Hypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy is a safe, evidence-based approach that can help with a range of challenges — from breaking unhealthy habits to managing anxiety or improving sleep. However, without insurance support, out-of-pocket costs can add up quickly.
Understanding your health fund’s hypnotherapy policy means you can:
Make the most of your extras cover
Avoid unexpected costs
Choose a provider that meets rebate requirements
Get started on your therapy journey with confidence
Summary Table – Hypnotherapy Cover by Health Fund (2025)
Below is a summary of the major Australian health insurers and whether they offer cover for hypnotherapy, what level of cover you need, and any applicable conditions.
Company | Offers hypnotherapy cover? | Required level / Legacy | Key Conditions |
Medibank Private | ✅ (limited legacy only) | Pre‑April‑2011 auxiliary extras | GP referral, limited $ bonus per year |
Bupa | 🚫 | — | Hypnosis only via psychologists |
HCF | 🚫 | — | Not covered under natural therapies rules |
nib | 🚫 | — | No hypnotherapy cover |
HBF | ✅ (only via WA fund/AHA) | AHA‑listed provider | Must be on AHA list |
Teachers Health | ✅ | AHA‑listed provider | Covers AHA hypnotherapists |
GMHBA | 🚫 | — | Not covered |
Australian Unity | ⚠️ (legacy only, pre‑2018) | Pre‑2018 policy holders | AHA‑listed provider |
Defence Health | 🚫 | — | Not covered |
CBHS Health Fund | ✅ | AHA‑listed provider | Covers accredited practitioners |
Westfund | 🚫 | — | Does not cover hypnotherapy |
Health Partners | ✅ | AHA‑listed provider | Covers accredited practitioners |
Latrobe | 🚫 | — | Not covered |
HIF | 🚫 | — | No cover for hypnotherapy |
TUH (Teachers Union Health) | 🚫 | — | Registered psychologists only |
Peoplecare | 🚫 | — | Registered psychologists only |
QCH (Queensland Country Health) | ⚠️ limited (smoking/weight loss) | Extras healthy living benefit | Requires GP referral |
Navy Health | ✅ | AHA‑listed provider | Must use AHA membership number |
AIA Health | 🚫 | — | Psychologist-only |
Mildura District Health Fund (MDHF) | 🚫 | — | Psychologists only |
Phoenix Health Fund | ✅ | AHA‑listed provider | Covers accredited practitioners |
CDH | 🚫 | — | Not covered |
Onemedifund | 🚫 | — | Not covered |
ACA Health Benefits Fund | 🚫 | — | Not covered |
CBHS Corporate | ✅ (same as CBHS) | AHA‑listed provider | Covered as CBHS Health Fund |
HCI (Health Care Insurance Ltd) | ✅ (limited) | Extras smoking/weight loss only | GP letter required; ~$150 limit |
Understanding the Different Types of Hypnotherapy Cover
1. Full Cover for Accredited Hypnotherapists
Some funds cover sessions with accredited providers (often members of the Australian Hypnotherapists Association – AHA). ✅ Examples include CBHS Health Fund, Teachers Health, Health Partners, Navy Health, Phoenix Health Fund, HBF (WA), and Australian Unity (legacy).
2. Cover Only for Registered Psychologists
Several funds won’t recognise clinical hypnotherapists, but will rebate hypnosis if performed by a registered psychologist under psychology benefits. ⚠️ Examples: Bupa, TUH, Peoplecare, Police Health, AIA Health, and Mildura District Health Fund.
3. No Hypnotherapy Cover
Some funds simply do not provide rebates for any form of hypnotherapy. 🚫 Examples: GMHBA, HCF, nib, Latrobe, Westfund, CDH, Onemedifund, and ACA Health.
Tips for Claiming Hypnotherapy Through Your Health Fund
Check provider eligibility: Most funds require your hypnotherapist to have an AHA provider number.
Know your limits: Annual caps and per-session limits vary widely.
Ask about GP referrals: Some funds require one for specific conditions like smoking cessation or weight loss.
Review your policy regularly: Coverage can change year to year.
Choosing a Hypnotherapist for Maximum Rebate Potential
If you want to make the most of your cover, choose a hypnotherapist who:
Is registered with the Australian Hypnotherapists Association (AHA)
Has a valid provider number for your fund
Offers services for your intended goal (e.g., quitting smoking, managing anxiety, weight loss)
Can provide itemised receipts with correct provider codes
The Bottom Line
While not all health funds cover hypnotherapy, there are still plenty of options in Australia if you know where to look. The key is understanding your policy and working with a recognised provider. Hypnotherapy can be life-changing, and with the right health cover, it can also be affordable.
Start Your Hypnotherapy Journey Today
If you’re Health Fund doesn't cover you and you're ready to explore how hypnotherapy can help you overcome challenges, improve wellbeing, and create lasting change — I’d love to help.
As a fully accredited hypnotherapist, I work with clients across Australia through safe, confidential online hypnotherapy sessions.
📞 Book a free 30-minute consultation today and find out how I can help you overcome your challenges.
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