NDIS Counselling — Who Is Eligible and How Does It Work?

Counselling is an often-misunderstood support under the NDIS. Many families and participants don't realise it may be available through their plan, or aren't sure whether their situation qualifies. This guide explains who is eligible for NDIS-funded counselling, what it covers, and how to access it.

Is counselling covered by the NDIS?

Yes — counselling can be funded under the NDIS where the need for counselling is directly related to a participant's disability. The NDIS funds supports that help participants pursue their goals and improve their functioning and quality of life. Counselling that addresses the psychological, emotional, or social impacts of disability falls within this scope.

Who is eligible for NDIS counselling?

NDIS participants may be eligible for counselling funding where:

• Their disability significantly impacts their mental health, emotional regulation, or psychological wellbeing
• They are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, or adjustment difficulties that are directly linked to their disability
• Their disability affects their relationships, social participation, or ability to engage with daily life
• They are navigating significant life transitions related to their disability
• They have experienced trauma or loss connected to their disability experience
• Family members or carers whose wellbeing is significantly impacted by supporting a participant with disability may also be eligible in some circumstances

Eligibility is determined by the NDIA at the planning stage, based on the evidence provided about the participant's needs and goals. A GP, psychologist, paediatrician, or other treating professional can provide supporting evidence for a counselling funding request.

Who can provide NDIS counselling?

NDIS-funded counselling can be provided by a range of qualified practitioners, including:

• Psychologists (registered with AHPRA)
• Clinical counsellors registered with PACFA (Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia)
• Counsellors registered with the ACA (Australian Counselling Association)
• Social workers with relevant qualifications

At Aceso Therapy, counselling is provided by Shilpi Ashta, a PACFA-registered Clinical Counsellor with extensive experience supporting NDIS participants and their families.

What does NDIS counselling look like in practice?

NDIS counselling sessions are typically delivered one-on-one, either in person, in the community, or via telehealth. Sessions are tailored to the participant's goals — which might include:

• Building emotional regulation and coping strategies
• Processing grief, loss, or adjustment to disability
• Addressing anxiety related to social participation or daily activities
• Developing self-advocacy skills and self-understanding
• Improving communication and relationship skills
• Supporting wellbeing and mental health during periods of change or challenge

How is counselling funded in an NDIS plan?

NDIS counselling is typically funded under Capacity Building — Improved Daily Living (Support Category 15) or Capacity Building — Improved Living Arrangements, depending on the participant's situation and goals. In some cases it may be funded under the Support Coordination or Improved Relationships categories.

If your plan does not currently include counselling funding and you believe it should, speak with your Support Coordinator or LAC about requesting it at your next plan review. Supporting documentation from a GP or treating professional strengthens a review request.

Can I access counselling via telehealth?

Yes — Aceso Therapy offers telehealth counselling for NDIS participants across Australia. Telehealth is particularly valuable for participants in rural or remote areas, those with transport barriers, or those who find in-person attendance difficult. Sessions are conducted via secure video call and are equally effective for most participants and presentations.

How Aceso Therapy can help

Shilpi Ashta is a PACFA-registered Clinical Counsellor with over 15 years of global experience supporting individuals with disability and complex needs. She takes a warm, person-centred approach — focusing on what matters most to the participant, not just the presenting problem. Sessions are available in-person in Riverstone (Hills District) and via telehealth Australia-wide.