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CTP psychology approval in NSW
In brief: If you have a CTP claim number, SIRA allows an initial allied health assessment of one treatment session without prior insurer approval. For ongoing psychology treatment, most CTP insurers require an Allied Health Treatment Request (AHTR) after the first treatment and decide whether the proposed services are reasonable and necessary. CTP Assist (1300 656 919) can help if you are unsure about your claim.
If you've been injured in a motor vehicle accident in NSW and are experiencing psychological symptoms, treatment can often be funded under the Compulsory Third Party (CTP) scheme. The approval process is reasonably straightforward, though the details depend on your claim. Here's how it generally works.
The usual steps
You need a CTP claim number before the one-session initial assessment exception can be used. SIRA advises that injured people will usually refer themselves to an allied health practitioner, although a GP or rehabilitation provider may also initiate the referral.
An initial allied health assessment of one treatment session can generally occur without prior insurer approval once you have a claim number. This allows the psychologist to assess your presentation, goals and treatment needs.
Most CTP insurers require an Allied Health Treatment Request (AHTR) after the first treatment on a claim, other than specified early-intervention treatment. The AHTR explains the assessment findings, proposed treatment, goals and rationale.
The insurer considers whether the proposed treatment is reasonable and necessary. SIRA states that the insurer must provide a written response within 10 working days of receiving the request. Ongoing treatment is then reviewed and further approval requested where clinically appropriate.
Costs and entitlements
CTP insurers are required to pay for treatment they accept as reasonable and necessary in relation to the motor accident injury. SIRA does not set maximum allied health fees in CTP; treatment rates are agreed with the insurer. To reduce the risk of unexpected costs, it is sensible to confirm the insurer's approval for ongoing treatment and the agreed billing arrangements. CTP Assist on 1300 656 919 can help with general scheme questions.
If you're not sure where to start
Many people assume they need a GP referral before contacting a psychologist under CTP. SIRA's current guidance says injured people will usually refer themselves to an allied health practitioner, although a GP or rehabilitation provider may also initiate the referral. If you already have a CTP claim number, you can contact a psychologist to discuss the initial assessment and the requirements for ongoing treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Once you have a CTP claim number, an initial allied health assessment of one treatment session can generally occur without prior insurer approval. For ongoing treatment, most CTP insurers require an AHTR after the first treatment and decide whether the proposed services are reasonable and necessary.
CTP insurers fund treatment they accept as reasonable and necessary in relation to the motor accident injury. To avoid uncertainty about payment, ongoing treatment should have the required insurer approval; the provider can confirm the arrangements with the insurer.
CTP Assist is a NSW service that can help people understand the CTP scheme and their entitlements after a motor vehicle accident. They can be contacted on 1300 656 919 for guidance about your claim and what is covered.
Scheme information reviewed: 20 August 2026.
Official information
SIRA: providing allied health services in the NSW CTP schemes
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If you'd like help understanding how CTP psychology approval works for your situation, call or email directly. All enquiries are handled personally.
Written for a general NSW audience, this isn't personal or clinical advice. Your eligibility and funding will come down to your individual claim and insurer approval, which your treating doctor can help clarify.