Financial Support for Counselling

You’ve reached that point where you’re ready to get some mental-health or wellbeing support.

You scroll through pages of therapists, trying to find someone who feels like the right fit – and who fits your budget. It can get overwhelming, and sometimes it’s easier to close the tab altogether.

The good news is, you don’t have to carry the full cost on your own. In New Zealand, there are several ways to make counselling more affordable. Whether you’re a student, working, between jobs, or just finding things tight, there’s likely an option that fits your situation.

 

1. Work and Income (WINZ) – Disability Allowance for Counselling

If you’re on a low or moderate income, Work and Income New Zealand (WINZ) can help cover part of your counselling costs through the Disability Allowance.

• How it works: WINZ can contribute up to $70.04 per week toward counselling (depending on income and circumstances).

• Getting started: Your GP or nurse practitioner fills out a form confirming counselling will support your wellbeing.

• Sessions: First-time applicants usually get around 10 sessions, with the option to extend through your GP.

👉 Ask your GP about applying for a Disability Allowance for counselling.

 

2. ACC – Sensitive Claims (ISSC)

If you’ve experienced sexual abuse or assault at any point in your life, you may be eligible for free counselling through ACC’s Integrated Services for Sensitive Claims (ISSC).

• No cost to you once your claim is accepted.

• Initial support session: You can meet a counsellor and learn about the process before deciding.

• No police report required: The process is private and trauma-informed.

• Ongoing funding: Therapy continues at your pace, with a focus on safety and healing.

At Hard Yards, we’re an ACC-registered Sensitive Claims provider and can guide you through the steps when you’re ready.

👉 Learn more about ACC sensitive claims here.

3. Gumboot Friday

If you’re aged 5–25, Gumboot Friday offers free counselling sessions funded by the community through the I Am Hope Foundation.

• No referral needed: Book directly via the Gumboot Friday website.

• Completely free: No benefit or GP approval required.

• Nationwide access: Both in-person and online counselling available.

This is an amazing option for young Kiwis who want to talk to someone without financial stress.

Our counsellor at HARD YARDS is registered with them, reach out if you need assistance. 

 

Getting Started

Money shouldn’t be the reason you put off getting help. Whether it’s through WINZ, ACC Sensitive Claims, or Gumboot Friday, there’s support to make counselling more accessible.

Our counsellor at HARD YARDS is registered with ACC and Work and Income (WINZ), and is listed with Gumboot Friday — meaning you can access support through any of these pathways, depending on your needs.

Whether you’re seeking counselling for trauma, anxiety, or just need someone to talk things through with, we’ll work with you to find the best way forward — both personally and financially.

👉 Ready to take the next step?
Get in touch here.