Understanding how to use NDIS funding for psychology, counselling, and therapy services. Learn about price caps, plan management options, and how to access the mental health support you need through the National Disability Insurance Scheme.
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides funding for eligible Australians to access therapy services that support their goals and improve their daily functioning. If you're an NDIS participant, you may be able to use your funding for psychology, counselling, or other therapeutic supports.
Understanding how NDIS funding works for therapy services can help you make informed decisions about your mental health support. This guide covers everything from checking your plan to finding the right therapist and understanding the different management options available to you.
NDIS therapy funding supports participants to access mental health and therapeutic services that help them achieve their goals and improve their quality of life. This funding can be used for various types of therapy including:
The key requirement is that therapy services must be directly related to your disability and support the goals outlined in your NDIS plan.
Therapy funding typically falls under these NDIS budget categories:
Covers therapy that helps with day-to-day activities and personal care. This might include:
Focuses on building skills and independence. This category often includes:
Supports that help improve social connections and relationships:
Review your NDIS plan to see if you have funding allocated for therapeutic supports. Look for categories like "Improved Daily Living" or "Capacity Building - Therapeutic Supports".
Consider how therapy relates to your NDIS goals. The therapy must be "reasonable and necessary" and directly support your plan objectives.
Select a therapist who understands NDIS requirements. You can choose registered or unregistered providers depending on your plan management type.
Work with your therapist to ensure sessions align with your NDIS goals and will contribute to measurable outcomes.
Begin therapy and track your progress. Keep records of how sessions support your NDIS goals for plan reviews.
The NDIS sets maximum price caps for different types of therapy services. These rates apply to registered providers and serve as a guide for self and plan-managed participants:
| Service Type | NDIS Price Cap (hourly) | Registration Required | Typical Session Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clinical Psychologist | $214.41 | NDIS-managed only | 50-60 minutes |
| Registered Psychologist | $193.99 | NDIS-managed only | 50-60 minutes |
| Counsellor | $164.73 | Self/Plan-managed | 50-60 minutes |
| Psychotherapist | $164.73 | Self/Plan-managed | 50-60 minutes |
| Art/Music Therapist | $164.73 | Varies | 50-60 minutes |
Note: These are maximum rates. Many providers charge below these caps, and rates may vary based on location and provider experience.
How you manage your NDIS plan affects which providers you can choose and how you pay for services:
Provider choice: Registered NDIS providers only
Payment: Direct billing to NDIS
Price caps: Strictly enforced
Best for: Those who prefer simple, hands-off management
Provider choice: Any provider (registered or unregistered)
Payment: Plan manager handles invoices
Price caps: Flexible within reason
Best for: Maximum choice with minimal admin
Provider choice: Any provider (registered or unregistered)
Payment: You pay and claim reimbursement
Price caps: Flexible within reason
Best for: Those who want full control
Your provider bills the NDIS directly. You don't need to handle any payments or claims.
Send your invoice to your plan manager. They will pay the provider directly from your NDIS funds. Make sure to:
You pay the provider and claim reimbursement through the NDIS portal or app. You'll need:
Advantages:
Considerations:
Advantages:
Considerations:
Connect with qualified mental health professionals who understand NDIS funding and can support your goals.
Search for NDIS TherapistsA: Therapy must be "reasonable and necessary" and relate to your disability and NDIS goals. Most psychology, counselling, and specialized therapies are covered if they support your plan objectives.
A: No, you don't need a GP referral to use NDIS funding for therapy. However, the therapy must align with your NDIS plan goals.
A: If you're self or plan-managed, you can choose to pay the difference. If you're NDIS-managed, you must use providers who charge within the price caps.
A: Work with your therapist to set measurable goals and track progress. Keep records for plan reviews and discuss outcomes regularly with your support coordinator.
A: Yes, you have the right to choose your providers. If you're not satisfied, you can find a new therapist that better meets your needs.
A: You can request a plan review if you need additional funding, or pay privately for additional sessions. Some people also access Medicare psychology sessions with a Mental Health Treatment Plan.