WorkCover & CTP Psychology Services for Workplace Injuries in Sydney

SIRA Approved Psychologists Supporting Your Return to Work

At Mind Health, we understand that workplace injuries and motor vehicle accidents don’t just leave physical scars—they can profoundly impact your mental health and wellbeing. As SIRA approved psychologists serving Parramatta and Greater Sydney, we specialise in helping injured workers navigate their psychological recovery and achieve a safe, sustainable return to work.

Whether you’ve experienced a workplace accident, motor vehicle incident, or work-related psychological injury, our experienced team provides evidence-based treatment under the SIRA NSW Workers Compensation, Compulsory Third Party (CTP), and Commonwealth Comcare schemes.

Comprehensive Psychology Services for Injured Workers

WorkCover Psychology Services

Our WorkCover accredited psychologists provide specialised treatment for workers who have sustained physical or psychological injuries in the workplace. We work collaboratively with your treating doctor, rehabilitation providers, and insurer to ensure you receive the comprehensive support needed for your recovery journey.

CTP Motor Accident Psychology

Motor vehicle accidents can result in significant psychological trauma, including post-traumatic stress, anxiety, and adjustment difficulties. Our CTP approved psychologists are experienced in treating the complex mental health challenges that often follow road trauma, helping you process your experience and rebuild confidence.

→ Learn more about SIRA’s CTP scheme.

Comcare Psychology Services

For Commonwealth Government employees and those covered under the Comcare scheme, we offer tailored psychological interventions that address both workplace injuries and occupational stress. Our practitioners understand the unique requirements of Comcare claims and work within established guidelines to support your recovery.

Conditions We Treat

Workplace injuries and accidents can trigger a range of psychological responses. Our experienced psychologists provide evidence-based treatment for:

Trauma and PTSD

Following workplace accidents or witnessing traumatic events, many workers experience intrusive memories, flashbacks, nightmares, and hypervigilance. Our trauma-focused interventions help you process these experiences safely and develop effective coping strategies.

Workplace Anxiety and Panic Attacks

Return-to-work anxiety, panic attacks, and generalised worry about safety are common after workplace injuries. We use proven techniques including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to help you manage anxiety symptoms and rebuild workplace confidence.

Depression and Mood Disorders

Injury-related depression can manifest as persistent low mood, loss of motivation, sleep disturbances, and social withdrawal. Our psychologists provide compassionate support whilst teaching practical strategies to improve mood and re-engage with life.

Adjustment Difficulties

Adapting to physical limitations, changed work capacity, or new roles can be challenging. We help you navigate these transitions, develop acceptance, and find meaningful ways forward in your career and personal life.

Chronic Pain Management

Persistent pain often has significant psychological components. Our psychologists work alongside your medical team to address pain-related distress, improve coping strategies, and enhance your quality of life despite ongoing physical symptoms.

Anger and Emotional Regulation

Frustration, irritability, and anger are natural responses to injury and life disruption. We provide tools and techniques to help you manage intense emotions constructively and maintain healthy relationships.

Sleep Disturbances and Stress Management

Injury-related insomnia, nightmares, and disrupted sleep patterns can significantly impact recovery. Our evidence-based sleep interventions help restore healthy sleep habits essential for physical and psychological healing.

Workplace Bullying and Work Problems

We also support workers experiencing psychological injury from workplace bullying, harassment, or other work-related stressors, helping you navigate these challenging situations while protecting your mental health.

Our Treatment Approach

Evidence-Based, Outcomes-Focused Care

At Mind Health, we strictly adhere to SIRA WorkCover guidelines whilst providing warm, compassionate care. Our treatment approach includes:

• Comprehensive Assessment: Thorough evaluation of your psychological symptoms, functional capacity, and return-to-work goals
• Tailored Treatment Planning: Individualised interventions based on your specific needs and circumstances
• Regular Progress Monitoring: Use of validated outcome measures to track improvement and adjust treatment
• Collaborative Care: Close communication with your GP, specialists, rehabilitation providers, and insurer
• Skills-Based Interventions: Practical strategies you can implement immediately to manage symptoms
• Return-to-Work Focus: Graduated exposure and confidence-building to support sustainable work re-entry

Treatment Modalities We Offer

Our SIRA approved psychologists are trained in multiple evidence-based therapies:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
• Trauma-Focused CBT
• Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
• Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction
• Solution-Focused Brief Therapy
• Motivational Interviewing
• Pain Management Techniques

→ Learn more about our therapeutic approaches

Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)

Beyond workers’ compensation, Mind Health partners with forward-thinking organisations to provide Employee Assistance Programs. Our EAP services support both employees and their immediate family members through:

• Short-term, solution-focused counselling
• Critical incident response
• Management coaching and support
• Workplace mental health training
• Organisational wellbeing consultancy

Modern workplaces recognise that supporting employee psychological wellbeing directly enhances productivity, engagement, and retention. Our EAP interventions provide early detection and faster resolution of personal and work-related challenges before they escalate.

The Mind Health Difference

Why Choose Our WorkCover Psychology Services?

SIRA Accredited Specialists: All our WorkCover psychologists maintain current SIRA accreditation and participate in ongoing professional development specific to workplace injury treatment. Check the SIRA provider search to verify our credentials.

Rapid Access: We understand that early intervention improves outcomes. That’s why we prioritise WorkCover referrals and can often offer appointments within 48 hours.

Convenient Locations: With clinics in Parramatta / Sydney, plus telehealth options, we make accessing treatment as easy as possible during your recovery.

Direct Billing: We bill insurers directly, removing financial stress from your recovery process. No out-of-pocket expenses for approved treatment.

Collaborative Approach: We work seamlessly with your entire care team, providing regular reports and participating in case conferences to optimise your recovery.

Proven Outcomes: Our evidence-based approach and focus on functional improvement help injured workers achieve faster, more sustainable returns to work.

Getting Started: Your Path to Recovery

How to Access Our Services

1. Obtain a Referral: Your treating doctor will provide a Certificate of Capacity (SIRA WorkCover / CTP) or medical certificate (Comcare) recommending psychological treatment. 

2. Contact Our Team: Call 1300 084 200 to speak with our intake specialists who will guide you through the process or complete our Online Intake Form

3. Insurer Approval: We handle approval requests with your insurer, advocating for the treatment you need

4. Initial Assessment: Meet with one of our specialist psychologists for comprehensive evaluation and treatment planning

5. Commence Treatment: Begin your tailored treatment program with regular progress reviews

What to Expect

Your psychological treatment under workers’ compensation includes:

• Individual therapy sessions (typically 50 minutes)
• Regular progress reports to your insurer and treating team
• Outcome measurements to track improvement
• Return-to-work planning and support
• Liaison with your employer when appropriate
• Strategies and resources for ongoing self-management

Important Information

Confidentiality and Reporting

When receiving treatment under workers’ compensation, please be aware that:

• Your psychologist is required to provide regular reports to your insurer
• Information discussed in sessions may be included in these reports
• Your insurer can access assessment and treatment information
• We always discuss report content with you before submission

For more information about privacy in workers’ compensation, visit Office of the Australian Information Commissioner.

Covered Services

Psychology services approved under workers’ compensation schemes typically include:

• Initial psychological assessment
• Individual treatment sessions
• Progress reporting
• Case conferences
• Return-to-work planning
• Vocational assessment (where indicated)

Frequently Asked Questions

What does WorkCover psychology treatment cost?

Psychological services under WorkCover NSW are billed at gazetted rates set annually by SIRA. When your treatment is approved, there are no out-of-pocket expenses for you. We bill your insurer directly according to the current Psychology and Counselling Fees Order.

→ For the latest fee schedule, visit: SIRA Psychology and Counselling Fees

How many sessions will I need?

Treatment duration varies based on individual needs and injury severity. Your psychologist will discuss expected treatment timeframes during your initial assessment. Workers’ compensation schemes support “reasonable and necessary” treatment, which we determine collaboratively with you and your treating team. Typically:

• Adjustment disorders: 6-12 sessions
• PTSD and trauma: 12-20 sessions
• Complex presentations: 20+ sessions with review

Can I choose my psychologist?

Yes, you can request a specific psychologist from our SIRA approved team. We match clients with psychologists based on expertise, availability, and your preferences. All our WorkCover psychologists are highly experienced in workplace injury treatment. View our team of psychologists to learn more about their specialisations.

What if my claim is declined?

If your workers’ compensation claim is declined, we can discuss alternative funding options including:

• Medicare rebates (with appropriate GP referral)
• Private health insurance
• Self-funding options

We’ll support you in understanding your options and accessing appropriate care regardless of claim status. You can also seek review of the decision through SIRA’s dispute resolution process.

Do you offer telehealth appointments?

Yes, we provide telehealth psychology services for clients who cannot attend in-person appointments due to injury, distance, or other circumstances. Telehealth sessions are conducted via secure video platform and are equally effective for most psychological interventions. SIRA and Comcare both approve telehealth delivery when clinically appropriate.

How quickly can I start treatment?

We prioritise workers’ compensation referrals and typically offer initial appointments within 48-72 hours. Emergency situations are triaged immediately. Early intervention significantly improves outcomes, so we encourage prompt contact following injury.

What information do I need to bring to my first appointment?

Please bring:

• Your Certificate of Capacity or medical certificate
• Claim number (if available)
• Any previous psychological or medical reports
• List of current medications
• Your insurer’s contact details
• Photo ID and Medicare card

Can I see a psychologist whilst still working?

Absolutely. Many clients benefit from psychological support whilst continuing to work, particularly for managing workplace stress, preventing deterioration, or supporting graduated return to work. Your psychologist will work with you to schedule appointments that accommodate your work commitments.

What’s the difference between WorkCover and CTP psychology services?

WorkCover covers psychological treatment for workplace injuries, including both physical injuries with psychological impact and primary psychological injuries (like workplace bullying or trauma).

CTP (Compulsory Third Party) insurance covers psychological treatment following motor vehicle accidents, whether you were the driver, passenger, pedestrian, or cyclist.

Both schemes provide similar psychological services, but the referral pathways and claim processes differ. Our team manages both types seamlessly.

Will my employer know I’m receiving psychological treatment?

Your employer will typically be informed that you’re receiving treatment as part of your return-to-work plan, but specific details about your sessions remain confidential. We only share information necessary for your safe return to work and always discuss any workplace communication with you first.

Can family members attend sessions?

Yes, with your consent, we can include family members in sessions when clinically beneficial. This might include:

• Psychoeducation about your condition
• Relationship counselling related to injury impact
• Family support strategies
• Communication skills training

Family involvement often enhances recovery outcomes.

What if I’m not happy with my allocated psychologist?

We understand that therapeutic fit is crucial for successful treatment. If you’re not comfortable with your allocated psychologist, please discuss this with our intake team. We can arrange a transfer to another SIRA approved psychologist within our team to ensure you receive the most beneficial treatment.

How do return-to-work programs work?

Return-to-work programs are collaborative plans involving you, your psychologist, treating doctor, employer, and insurer. These typically include:

• Graduated exposure to workplace triggers
• Anxiety management strategies
• Communication skills for discussing needs with supervisors
• Workplace modifications if needed
• Regular monitoring and adjustment

Your psychologist advocates for a pace that supports both your recovery and sustainable work participation.

What if I can’t return to my previous role?

Sometimes injuries necessitate career transitions. Our psychologists provide:

• Vocational counselling
• Skills assessment
• Career transition support
• Liaison with vocational rehabilitation providers
• Adjustment counselling for role changes

We help you explore meaningful work options that accommodate your current capacity.

Are interpreters available?

Yes, we can arrange professional interpreters for clients who prefer to receive treatment in languages other than English. This service is typically covered under your workers’ compensation claim. Please inform our intake team of your language preferences when booking.

What happens after my claim closes?

Before your claim closes, we’ll work with you to:

• Develop a comprehensive self-management plan
• Provide resources for ongoing support
• Discuss transition options if continued treatment is needed
• Arrange appropriate referrals

Many clients successfully maintain their recovery using the skills learned during treatment.