VOCAT-Funded Psychology in Melbourne
If you are a victim of violent crime in Victoria, VOCAT (Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal) may reimburse the cost of your psychology sessions. Sessions are booked and paid as standard private appointments — you then claim reimbursement from VOCAT directly under your assistance certificate.
What Is VOCAT Psychology Funding?
The Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (VOCAT) provides financial assistance to victims of violent crime in Victoria — including reimbursement for reasonable counselling expenses. At The Talk Shop, VOCAT clients are booked as standard private sessions. You pay the session fee upfront and then submit your receipts to VOCAT to claim reimbursement under your assistance certificate.
VOCAT at a glance:
- Standard session fee applies — client pays upfront
- Client claims reimbursement from VOCAT directly
- VOCAT assistance certificate required before booking
- Confirm clinician availability before making a booking
- Available in-office and via Telehealth
How to Access VOCAT-Funded Psychology
Here is the process for accessing psychology at The Talk Shop as a VOCAT client:
Apply to VOCAT
Apply through the Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal at justice.vic.gov.au, or with the support of a solicitor or victim support worker. Once approved, VOCAT will issue an assistance certificate specifying your funding entitlements.
Confirm Clinician Availability
Important: Before making a booking, call us on 1300 224 665 to confirm that a clinician is available and suitable for your case. This step is required before proceeding.
Book as a Private Session
Sessions are booked and paid as standard private appointments — no different from a regular booking. Pay the full session fee at the time of the appointment. We will provide a receipt after each session.
Claim Reimbursement from VOCAT
Submit your session receipts to VOCAT to claim reimbursement under your assistance certificate. VOCAT will reimburse reasonable counselling costs directly to you. Your solicitor or case manager can assist with this process.
Helpful Resources
Funding Guide
Understanding Your Funding Options: Medicare, NDIS, VOCAT & More
Quick Facts
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What We Treat Under VOCAT
- Trauma and PTSD following a violent crime
- Anxiety, depression and adjustment difficulties
- Complex PTSD and dissociation
- Grief and loss following a crime incident
- Psychological effects of physical injury
- Court preparation and witness support
Other Ways to Fund Your Sessions
Frequently Asked Questions
You need an approved VOCAT assistance certificate before sessions can commence. A GP referral addressed to The Talk Shop is also required. Importantly, you must call us first to confirm that a clinician is available to take your case before making a booking.
You can apply through the Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal at justice.vic.gov.au, or with the support of a solicitor or victim support worker. Applications should generally be made within 2 years of the act of violence.
At The Talk Shop, VOCAT clients are booked as standard private sessions. You pay the full session fee at the time of the appointment and we provide you with a receipt. You then submit the receipt to VOCAT directly to claim reimbursement under your assistance certificate.
VOCAT applications can take several months to process. If you need psychological support while waiting, sessions are available via Medicare (with a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan) or as self-funded private appointments.
Yes — VOCAT clients can access psychology via Telehealth. This can be especially helpful if you have mobility concerns or prefer the privacy of attending from home.
Yes — you can request The Talk Shop as your preferred provider. Please call us on 1300 224 665 first so we can confirm clinician availability before you proceed with your booking.
Ready to Book?
Our psychologists have experience supporting victims of crime with sensitivity and care. Call us on 1300 224 665 to confirm clinician availability and get started.
Exploring your options? See our complete guide to all psychology funding types — Medicare, NDIS, WorkCover, TAC, DVA, VOCAT, private health and self-funded.