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Can I choose my own psychologist under Workers Compensation in NSW?
Quick answer: Generally, yes. Under the NSW Workers Compensation (WorkCover) scheme, injured workers can usually choose their own treating psychologist. Your employer or insurer may suggest someone, but the choice is generally yours, and if you have already been referred elsewhere, you can usually ask to change.
One of the most common worries injured workers have is that someone else (the employer, the insurer, or a rehabilitation provider) gets to decide who treats them. It's an understandable concern, especially when so much else about a claim can feel outside your control. The good news is that, in most cases, choosing your treating psychologist is your decision.
Your right to choose
Under the NSW Workers Compensation scheme, injured workers generally have the right to choose their own treating providers, including their treating psychologist. While an employer or insurer may make a suggestion or provide a list, you are not usually required to accept a particular provider simply because they were recommended to you.
What does usually apply is that the treatment itself needs to be approved by the insurer as reasonably necessary, and the psychologist needs to be appropriately qualified and, in practice, a SIRA-approved provider. Within those bounds, the choice of which psychologist is generally yours.
What if I've already been referred to someone else?
This happens often. You might have been given a name early on, before you had a chance to think about who you'd prefer, or you may simply not feel that the fit is right. In most cases you can change. The usual steps are:
- Let your GP know you'd like to see a different psychologist, who can update or reissue the referral.
- Tell your case manager or insurer which provider you'd like to see, so approval can be directed to them.
- Contact the new psychologist's practice, who can help confirm what's needed before treatment starts.
A good treating relationship matters in psychological treatment. Feeling comfortable with your psychologist is not a luxury. It is part of what makes treatment work.
Will changing cost me anything?
Where your psychological treatment has been approved by the insurer under the Workers Compensation scheme, sessions are generally funded through the scheme, and that does not change based on which approved psychologist you choose. Choosing the right fit for you does not mean paying more.
Frequently asked questions
Generally yes. Under the NSW Workers Compensation scheme, injured workers can usually choose their own treating providers, including their psychologist. Your employer or insurer may suggest a provider, but you are generally entitled to choose your own.
You can usually request to see a different psychologist. This is typically discussed with your GP, who can update the referral, and with your insurer or case manager. You are not locked into a provider you did not choose.
Where psychological treatment has been approved by the insurer under the Workers Compensation scheme, sessions are generally funded through the scheme and there are typically no out-of-pocket costs, regardless of which approved psychologist you choose.
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If you'd like to discuss seeing Revamp Psychology as your treating psychologist, call or email directly. All enquiries are handled personally.
This page is general information for people in NSW and is not personal or clinical advice. Eligibility and funding depend on your individual claim and insurer approval. Please speak with your treating doctor about your situation.