Does NDIS Cover Psychology?

If you’re trying to understand whether the NDIS covers psychology services in Queensland, the short answer is yes but only when the support is directly connected to a person’s disability needs. Psychology can play an important role in helping participants build daily living skills, manage behaviours, improve emotional regulation and increase independence. Below, we break down how coverage works, what psychology the NDIS can fund, and how to access support.

When Does the NDIS Fund Psychology?

The NDIS funds supports that are considered reasonable and necessary for a participant’s disability. Psychology is included when it helps someone improve functional capacity, meet personal goals or participate more independently in daily life. This may include therapy, assessments or behaviour support.

Many participants across Brisbane and Queensland use NDIS funding for psychology to help with:

• Emotional regulation and coping strategies 
• Behaviour support and positive behaviour interventions 
• Social and communication skill development 
• Managing the impact of disability on daily functioning 

The key requirement is that the therapy is directly linked to the person’s disability and supports progress toward their NDIS goals.

Does NDIS Cover Psychology for Autism?

Yes. Psychology is commonly funded for autistic participants when support focuses on functional outcomes such as behaviour, social development, sensory regulation or emotional wellbeing. Funded psychology may include:

• Behaviour support planning 
• Social skills programs 
• Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) 
• Developmental or functional assessments 
• Parent/carer guidance and family support 

Psychologists who regularly support autistic children, teens and adults can provide targeted therapy that aligns with the participant’s plan and goals.

What Psychology Services Can Be Funded?

The NDIS may fund a wide range of psychology-related supports, depending on need. These can include:

• Clinical psychology sessions 
• Counselling and evidence-based therapeutic interventions 
• Behaviour support services 
• Social and daily living skills training 
• Functional and neuropsychological assessments 
• Capacity-building sessions delivered face-to-face or via telehealth 

To be funded, the service must be aimed at improving function, capacity, independence or safety not general mental health unrelated to disability.

How to Access Psychology Through the NDIS

To receive psychology support, it needs to be included in your NDIS plan. Here’s how the process usually works:

1. Identify the Need
   During planning or review meetings, discuss how psychology would help you work toward your goals. Be specific about the kinds of improvements you’re seeking. 
2. Ensure It Fits the Correct Funding Category
   Psychology often sits under Capacity Building  Improved Daily Living or Improved Relationships (for behaviour support). 
3. Choose a Provider
   Participants can work with registered or non-registered providers depending on whether their plan is NDIA-managed, plan-managed or self-managed. 
4. Start Sessions Within Your Budget
   Once funding is approved, you can begin booking sessions. Many Queensland psychologists also offer telehealth for added flexibility. 

Limitations to Be Aware Of

While psychology can be funded, there are circumstances where the NDIS may not approve it. The NDIS generally will not fund:

• Therapy aimed at general mental health not related to disability 
• Supports that are educational or academic in nature 
• Services not aligned with the participant’s stated goals 
• Excessive session frequency where outcomes aren’t demonstrated 

Having clear goals and evidence-based recommendations from professionals can help strengthen requests.

Benefits of NDIS-Funded Psychology

NDIS-funded psychology can make a genuine difference in everyday life. Participants often experience:

• Better emotional resilience 
• Reduced behaviours of concern 
• Improved communication and social interaction 
• Increased independence 
• Greater confidence in managing daily activities 

Working with a psychologist who understands the NDIS helps ensure therapy remains goal-focused and outcome-driven.

Final Thoughts

So, does the NDIS cover psychology? Yes  when the support is reasonable, necessary and linked to disability-related needs. Whether for autism, developmental conditions or other disabilities, psychology can play a vital role in helping Queensland participants achieve meaningful outcomes. With the right provider and a clear plan, NDIS-funded psychology can support long-term growth, independence and wellbeing.