ACC-Funded Counselling in NZ – What You Need to Know

Let me preface this article by making it clear, I am NOT registered as an ACC counsellor. 

However, I am eager for clients to be funded where they are entitled. 

Many people don’t realise that ACC can cover the cost of counselling for mental injuries - not just physical ones. If you've experienced trauma, abuse, or a mental injury linked to an accident or work, you may be eligible for fully funded support.

Here’s a quick guide to help you understand how it works.

Who Can Access ACC-Covered Counselling?

You might be eligible if your mental health concerns are linked to:

1. Sexual abuse or assault (Sensitive Claims)

   – No police report required

   – Available for any age, even if it happened many years ago

   
   

2. Physical injury

   – If your mental injury (like PTSD) directly results from a physical injury covered by ACC

   
   

3. Workplace incidents

   – Including physical or psychological trauma from accidents at work

   
   

4. Traumatic events witnessed at work

   – For example, first responders, teachers, or social workers exposed to violence or suicide

   – Covered under “work-related gradual process mental injury” claims

How Do I Apply?

1. Choose a Registered ACC Counsellor

   – You can find one at FindSupport.co.nz

   
   

2. Get in Touch

   – Contact a counsellor directly - they’ll help with the paperwork (ACC45 or ACC788)

   
   

3. Access Early Support

   – For sensitive claims, you can get up to 4 sessions right away under "Support to Talk" - no approval needed

   
   

4. Assessment & Ongoing Support

   – A psychologist or psychiatrist may carry out an assessment to confirm eligibility

   – If approved, ACC funds your ongoing treatment sessions

How Long Can I Receive Counselling?

• Initial Support: 4 early sessions (sensitive claims)

• Ongoing Treatment: ACC funds a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Duration varies based on your progress and ACC reviews (often every 10–20 sessions)

What Will It Cost?

If your claim is accepted, ACC covers the full cost.

Helpful Resources

• Find Support (Sensitive Claims)

• ACC General Info: 0800 101 996

• ACC Mental Injury Info

Final Thoughts

If you or someone you care about is struggling due to past trauma, a recent event, or a work-related experience, you don’t need to face it alone. ACC-funded counselling can be a vital step toward healing.