In New South Wales (NSW), WorkCover or CTP Psychologists play an essential role in supporting both employees and employers as they navigate the complexities of workplace injuries and compensation processes. These practitioners deliver evidence-based psychological services aimed at assisting injured workers in their recovery and return to employment, while also helping employers manage claims effectively and promote safer working environments.

A WorkCover or CTP Psychologist is a registered mental health professional accredited by the State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA). They operate independently and possess specialised knowledge of the NSW Workers Compensation system, enabling them to guide individuals through the psychological impacts associated with workplace injuries and the recovery process.

WorkCover or CTP Psychologists are typically engaged when a workers’ compensation claim involves psychological injury or stress-related conditions. Their work is conducted within the framework of WorkCover NSW—the state’s workers’ compensation scheme—which provides financial and rehabilitative support to employees who sustain injuries in the course of their employment.

Workcover or Compulsory Third Party (CTP)
Psychologists

Key Roles and Responsibilities

Assessment and Diagnosis:
WorkCover Psychologists undertake comprehensive psychological assessments to identify and diagnose conditions arising from workplace incidents, including stress, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These evaluations determine the nature and extent of psychological injury and guide appropriate treatment planning.

Treatment and Support:
They deliver evidence-based therapeutic interventions tailored to individual recovery needs. Interventions commonly include cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), counselling, and other structured modalities designed to alleviate symptoms, enhance coping strategies, and promote overall wellbeing.

Return-to-Work Planning:
A central focus of the role is to support a safe and sustainable return to work. WorkCover Psychologists collaborate with employees, employers, and multidisciplinary health teams to develop graduated return-to-work plans that respect both psychological and physical recovery requirements.

Workplace Recommendations:
They may provide professional recommendations to improve workplace environments and minimise future risks. This can include advising on job design, workload management, environmental modifications, or flexible work arrangements to reduce psychological stressors and prevent recurrence.

Reporting and Documentation:
WorkCover Psychologists prepare comprehensive reports for insurers, employers, and legal representatives. These documents are vital for assessing compensation entitlements, monitoring progress, and informing ongoing treatment and case management decisions.

Finding a WorkCover or CTP accredited Psychologist in NSW

When seeking the support of a WorkCover Psychologist in New South Wales (NSW), it is essential to confirm that the professional is accredited by the State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA) and experienced in managing workers’ compensation cases. Referrals are commonly available through general practitioners, legal representatives, or directly via WorkCover NSW. Engaging a psychologist who understands the unique challenges associated with psychological injury and workplace recovery can make a meaningful difference in the return-to-work process.

At NeuroNavigators, we are not currently SIRA-accredited; however, we are in the process of expanding our network to include qualified professionals who specialise in supporting individuals with workers’ compensation claims. In the meantime, those seeking a registered WorkCover Psychologist can refer to the official SIRA provider directory, available at: https://www.sira.nsw.gov.au/information-search/health-care-providers.