Can I have a psychosocial recovery coach and also see a psychologist under Medicare?

Yes. These are different supports serving different purposes. Your psychologist addresses clinical treatment under Medicare's Better Access scheme, while your recovery coach works on your broader recovery goals through the NDIS. They should ideally communicate with your consent.

What if I do not connect well with my recovery coach?

You can change recovery coaches. The NDIS does not require you to stay with any provider. If the relationship is not working, give appropriate notice under your service agreement and look for a different provider whose approach is a better fit.

Is psychosocial recovery coaching the same as peer support?

No, though some recovery coaches have lived experience of mental illness, which can be a valuable attribute. Peer support is a distinct service type in which someone with lived experience of mental health challenges provides non-clinical support based on mutual experience. Recovery coaching is a professional role with…

Can a family member or carer access recovery coaching?

No. Psychosocial recovery coaching is a support for the NDIS participant, not their family or carers. However, carers can access support through the Carer Gateway program and state-based carer support services.

What is a psychosocial recovery coach — and is one right for your plan?

Updated 23 May 2026 · reviewed by Prakash Bartaula, Founder, Novida

The NDIS support built specifically for mental health: what recovery coaches do, lived versus learned experience, and how coaching differs from support…

Frequently asked questions

Can I have a psychosocial recovery coach and also see a psychologist under Medicare?: Yes. These are different supports serving different purposes. Your psychologist addresses clinical treatment under Medicare's Better Access scheme, while your recovery coach works on your broader recovery goals through the NDIS. They should ideally communicate with your consent.
What if I do not connect well with my recovery coach?: You can change recovery coaches. The NDIS does not require you to stay with any provider. If the relationship is not working, give appropriate notice under your service agreement and look for a different provider whose approach is a better fit.
Is psychosocial recovery coaching the same as peer support?: No, though some recovery coaches have lived experience of mental illness, which can be a valuable attribute. Peer support is a distinct service type in which someone with lived experience of mental health challenges provides non-clinical support based on mutual experience. Recovery coaching is a professional role with…
Can a family member or carer access recovery coaching?: No. Psychosocial recovery coaching is a support for the NDIS participant, not their family or carers. However, carers can access support through the Carer Gateway program and state-based carer support services.