How to Access a Psychologist through NDIS: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you are a participant of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and in need of psychological support, you can use the services of a registered psychologist through the program. However, the process of accessing these services can be confusing and overwhelming. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to access a psychologist through NDIS.

Understanding NDIS and Psychological Support

Before we get into the process of obtaining a psychologist through the NDIS, let's first define the NDIS and how it helps people with disabilities. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a government-funded program that provides support and services to people with permanent and significant disabilities. The program's objective is to help participants in achieving their goals, increase their independence, and improve their quality of life.

Step-by-Step Guide on Accessing a Psychologist through NDIS

Step 1: Understand Your NDIS Plan

Before you can access therapy, you must first ensure that it's covered by your NDIS plan.

Psychological support is one of the services that NDIS funds and it comes under the Capacity Building part of your NDIS plan. You must have budget allocated for therapy services under the Improved Daily Living category.

If you are unsure or have any questions about whether therapy is included in your plan, please contact your support coordinator or Local Area Coordinator (LAC).

Step 2: Choose a Psychologist / Therapist

To access psychological support through NDIS, you can choose from any of our registered therapists. You may choose to see a psychologist or any other type of therapist (such as a counsellor or social worker), they are all covered by NDIS.

Step 3: Free Consultation

After you've decided on a therapist you would like to see, you may book a free consultation with them. During this consultation, they will discuss with you how they will work with you to help you achieve your goals set out in your NDIS plan.

We've made the process of booking a session with a therapist incredibly easy. Simply follow our booking process, enter your information, and lock in a date for your consultation.

If you are a Plan Managed NDIS participant we will ask for your plan manager details and whether you require a service agreement.

Once you've locked in your session date/time we will send you an email with a link you can use to connect with your therapist over video.

Step 4: Book an Appointment

After the initial consultation, you may book a full session (or ask your therapist to book you in). This session will last for 50 minutes and will take place using our secure video platform.

If you have requested a service agreement we will send it through before your first session and you are able to sign it digitally, so no need for a printer!

Step 5: Attend the Appointment

You will connect with your therapist via our secure video platform. We provide you with a link that you can click on and be connected directly with your therapist straight from your web browser, so there is no need to download any additional apps.

It's important to find a nice quiet and private space when having your session so you feel comfortable to open up.

Step 6: Payment

If you are a plan-managed NDIS participant we will invoice your plan managers so you do not need to worry about the payment at all.

If you are a self-managed participant then payment will be required when you book in your therapy sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I see a counsellor or do I need to see a psychologist?

You may also see a counsellor or social worker and have it funded by the NDIS. To see all our therapists available check out our NDIS service page.

Will I need a referral to access psychological support through NDIS?

No, you do not need a referral to access psychological support through NDIS, you should however ensure that your NDIS plan has a budget for therapy.

How many therapy sessions can I access through NDIS?

The number of sessions you can access through NDIS depends on your NDIS plan and how much budget has been allocated to it. Contact your support coordinator to find out more about this.

Will my psychologist be able to provide me with a diagnosis?

Psychologists who provide services through NDIS cannot provide a diagnosis, but they can work with you to manage your symptoms and improve your well-being.

For people with disabilities, receiving psychological support through the NDIS can be a life-changing experience. The process may appear overwhelming at first, but here at Talked, you will be able to easily access therapy services to assist you in managing your mental health and improving your overall well-being. Remember, taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health.

References

• National Disability Insurance Scheme. (n.d.). Psychological support. Retrieved from

  https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/psychological-support

• Psychology Board of Australia. (n.d.). NDIS and psychology. Retrieved from

  https://www.psychologyboard.gov.au/Codes-Guidelines/FAQ/NDIS-and-psychology.aspx