Understanding the M10 Medicare Pathway: A Guide to Psychology Assessments and Support for Young People
For many teenagers and young adults, understanding themselves has not always been straightforward.
Some young people spend years feeling like they are working harder than others to manage school, university, relationships, emotions, organisation, attention or everyday expectations. Parents may notice that their child experiences the world differently but are unsure where to begin or what support options are available.
For some families and young adults, a psychological assessment can provide an opportunity to better understand strengths, challenges and individual needs.
The M10 pathway assessment is one pathway available through Medicare that may provide rebates for eligible young people under 25 years of age who require assessment and support relating to a suspected or diagnosed Complex Neurodevelopmental Disorder or eligible disability.
Understanding how this pathway works can make the process feel less overwhelming and help families and young adults make informed decisions about seeking support.
What is the M10 Medicare Pathway?
The M10 pathway is a Medicare initiative that provides rebates for eligible allied health services, including psychology services, for young people under 25 years of age.
The pathway was expanded in March 2023, increasing eligibility from younger age groups to include people under 25 for both assessment and treatment services.
This change means more teenagers and young adults may now be able to access Medicare-supported psychological assessment services when there are concerns relating to neurodevelopmental differences or eligible disabilities.
The purpose of assessment is not simply to receive a diagnosis. For many people, assessment is about developing a clearer understanding of how they think, learn, communicate, regulate emotions and experience the world.
This understanding can help guide appropriate supports at home, education settings, workplaces and within the broader community.
Who May Be Eligible for an M10 Psychology Assessment?
The M10 pathway may apply to people under 25 years of age who have a suspected or diagnosed:
Complex Neurodevelopmental Disorder
eligible disability listed under Medicare requirements
This may include young people seeking assessment relating to experiences associated with autism, ADHD alongside other neurodevelopmental differences, or other eligible conditions.
It is important to understand that eligibility is based on Medicare criteria and referral requirements. Having questions about development, attention, learning, communication or emotional regulation does not automatically mean someone will meet M10 eligibility requirements.
A referral pathway helps determine whether this Medicare option is appropriate.
Autism and ADHD Assessments: Understanding the Role of the M10 Pathway
Many families searching for an autism and ADHD assessment in Australia are looking for answers about their child’s experiences.
They may be wondering why certain situations feel more difficult, why school or work requires significant effort, or why everyday tasks that appear simple for others can feel exhausting.
Some young people may also identify with experiences often described as “AuDHD” — referring to the combination of autism and ADHD traits.
A comprehensive psychological assessment can explore areas such as:
cognitive strengths and learning style
attention and executive functioning
emotional regulation
social communication experiences
adaptive functioning
developmental history
patterns of strengths and challenges
The goal is to create a clearer picture of the individual rather than focusing only on difficulties.
Every person’s experience is unique, and assessment should be approached with curiosity, respect and care.
How Does the M10 Referral Process Work?
Understanding the referral pathway is often one of the biggest concerns for families and young adults.
The general pathway involves:
1. Start with your GP
A GP can discuss concerns, explore available options and provide guidance about the next steps.
Your GP may refer you to an appropriate medical practitioner if an M10 pathway assessment is being considered.
2. Referral from a Consultant Paediatrician or Consultant Psychiatrist
For M10 psychology assessment services, a referral is required from a:
Consultant Paediatrician, or
Consultant Psychiatrist
The referring practitioner will consider the young person’s individual circumstances and whether the M10 pathway is appropriate.
3. Psychology Assessment
Once referred, psychology assessment services can be provided in line with Medicare requirements.
At Evolve Wellbeing Psychology, our assessment approach focuses on creating a supportive environment where young people and families can feel heard, understood and respected throughout the process.
You can learn more about our assessment services here: Evolve Wellbeing Psychology Assessments
What Psychology Services Can Be Accessed Through M10?
The M10 pathway includes Medicare rebates for eligible psychology assessment and treatment services.
Assessment Services
Eligible young people may access Medicare-rebated assessment services with appropriate referral requirements.
Psychological assessment services may include exploring areas such as:
neurodevelopmental differences
cognitive functioning
attention and executive functioning
emotional wellbeing
behavioural patterns
daily functioning
Assessment sessions have specific Medicare requirements regarding duration and service limits.
Treatment Services
Following assessment and diagnosis where applicable, eligible young people may also access Medicare-rebated psychology treatment services under the M10 pathway when appropriate referral and treatment planning requirements are met.
Treatment may support areas such as:
emotional regulation
coping strategies
self-understanding
confidence and identity development
managing stress and life transitions
Support looks different for every person. A young adult may need different support from a primary school-aged child, and therapy should reflect the person’s stage of life, goals and experiences.
The M10 Pathway for Young Adults Aged 17–24
The transition into adulthood can be a significant period of change.
For young people aged 17–24, questions about identity, independence, study, employment, relationships and future planning often become more important.
Some young adults seek assessment after years of feeling that something has been harder than expected.
They may relate to experiences such as:
feeling overwhelmed by everyday demands
needing significant recovery time after social situations
struggling with organisation or planning
experiencing challenges with attention or motivation
feeling misunderstood by others
wanting a better understanding of their strengths and needs
Seeking assessment as a young adult is valid.
There is no “right age” to seek understanding, and many people find that having a clearer picture of themselves can be a meaningful step towards self-awareness and accessing appropriate support.
The Difference Between Assessment and Labelling
For some people, the idea of assessment can feel intimidating.
There may be concerns about being judged, misunderstood or reduced to a diagnosis.
A neuro-affirming assessment approach recognises that people have different ways of thinking, communicating, learning and experiencing the world.
Assessment is not about identifying what is “wrong” with someone.
It is about exploring:
what comes naturally
what requires more effort
what environments support wellbeing
what strategies may make daily life easier
For families, this understanding can create new ways to support their child.
For young adults, it can provide language to describe their experiences and advocate for their needs.
How Evolve Wellbeing Psychology Supports Assessment
At Evolve Wellbeing Psychology, we provide warm, comprehensive psychological assessment services for children, teenagers and adults.
Our approach focuses on creating a safe and respectful space where people feel comfortable being themselves.
We understand that seeking assessment can involve many emotions — curiosity, uncertainty, hope and sometimes relief.
Our role is to support understanding through a thoughtful assessment process that considers the whole person, including strengths, experiences and individual needs.
Our assessment services are available from our Queensland locations and through telehealth Australia-wide (please note Telehealth assessments are only applicable for adults aged 18+).
Evolve Wellbeing Psychology Assessments
Frequently Considered Next Steps
If you are considering whether an M10 pathway assessment may be appropriate, some helpful steps may include:
speaking with your GP about your concerns
gathering relevant developmental, school or previous assessment information
discussing referral options with your healthcare providers
exploring assessment providers who offer a supportive and respectful approach
You do not need to have every answer before beginning the conversation.
You’re Welcome to Reach Out
If you are exploring whether an M10 pathway assessment may be suitable for your child, teenager or yourself, you are welcome to reach out to discuss your options.
You do not need to have everything figured out before seeking support.
Understanding yourself or your child can be an important step, and support is available when you are ready.
Evolve Wellbeing Psychology is here if you would like to talk it through.
