Conditions we treat
Specialist care for depression.
Reviewed by the SetMind Team · Last reviewed June 2026
For adults whose depression hasn't fully lifted with first-line GP care, specialist psychiatric review can help clarify the diagnosis, review current treatment, and build a structured plan with you. SetMind sees adults with first-episode, recurrent and treatment-resistant depression — by telehealth, across Australia.
How it shows up in adults
What we listen for.
- 01
Persistent low mood
Most of the day, most days, for two weeks or more — sometimes much longer. Often described as flat, numb or grey rather than acutely sad.
- 02
Loss of interest or pleasure
The things that used to feel good — work, exercise, food, relationships, hobbies — don't land the way they used to.
- 03
Sleep & energy disruption
Early-morning waking, sleeping too much, profound fatigue that doesn't lift with rest.
- 04
Cognitive symptoms
Slowed thinking, poor concentration, indecision, rumination, harsh self-criticism, feelings of worthlessness.
- 05
Treatment hasn't worked or worked partially
You've tried one or more treatments without full response, or side effects have made the trade-off difficult.
- 06
Diagnosis may be more than depression
Symptoms overlap with anxiety, bipolar spectrum, ADHD, trauma or burnout — and the right plan depends on getting that right.
The SetMind pathway
A structured pathway, end to end.
- Step 01
Referral & screening
Your GP refers with current and past treatment information. We send the PHQ-9 and a structured history form, plus a mood and treatment timeline.
- Step 02
Specialist diagnostic review
A 60-minute video consultation covering symptom course, treatment history, response patterns, side effects, comorbidities and risk.
- Step 03
Plan reset
Working formulation, including whether features of bipolar spectrum, ADHD, or anxiety are contributing. A tailored treatment and therapy plan documented to you and your GP.
- Step 04
Structured follow-up
Scheduled review appointments to measure response (PHQ-9), review treatment, and step up or down intensity over time.
What's included
Everything in the plan.
- Specialist psychiatric assessment and diagnostic clarification
- PHQ-9 screening and longitudinal tracking
- Review of current treatment, including switching, augmentation or rationalisation where appropriate
- Coordinated psychology referral where indicated
- Written treatment plan to you and your referring GP
- Structured follow-up to track recovery
Eligibility
Who this service is for.
- Adults 18 and over living in Australia
- You have, or can obtain, a current GP referral
- You can attend a video appointment from a private space
- You are not in acute crisis or experiencing current thoughts of self-harm
Not suitable for under-18s, acute mental-health crisis, or emergency care. Outcomes vary — assessment may or may not result in a diagnosis or prescription.
Medicare & fees
Medicare-rebated specialist care.
With a valid GP referral and an MBS-eligible item, standard Medicare rebates apply to specialist psychiatric appointments. Out-of-pocket costs, item numbers and rebate amounts are listed in full on our fees page.
See fees & rebatesFrequently asked
Depression — common questions.
- Treatment-resistant depression is typically defined as depression that hasn't responded adequately to at least two trials of antidepressant treatment at adequate dose and duration. It's common, and a specialist review usually changes the plan. (See RANZCP guidance referenced below for the full definition.)
If you need help right now
SetMind is not an emergency service. If you are in crisis or thinking about harming yourself:
Emergency
000
Lifeline
13 11 14
Suicide Call Back Service
1300 659 467
Beyond Blue
1300 22 4636
References
Clinical sources used on this page.
- RANZCP Clinical Practice Guidelines — Mood Disorders — Royal Australian & New Zealand College of Psychiatrists
- Depression in adults: treatment and management (NG222) — NICE
- Depression — Health Direct (Australian Government) — Health Direct Australia
This page is general information, not medical advice. It is not a substitute for an individual clinical assessment. Outcomes vary between people.
Available Australia-wide
Depression care for adults, by secure video.
SetMind psychiatrists see adults nationally. Find your nearest city:
Ready to start with a GP referral?
Bring your current GP referral. We handle the rest — screening, specialist assessment, written plan back to your GP.