Yes, psychological treatment for work-related PTSD can be funded through a workers compensation claim once it is accepted. You will usually need a certificate of capacity from your GP and approval from the insurer before sessions begin. Tell us at booking that it is a WorkCover matter so the paperwork and invoicing are set up correctly from the first appointment. [CONFIRM: WorkCover claims accepted for psychology at all sites, and which insurers]

Complex PTSD describes symptoms that follow repeated or prolonged trauma, often over years and often where escape was difficult. Alongside the usual PTSD symptoms, it involves persistent difficulty regulating emotions, a deeply negative view of yourself, and trouble with relationships. Treatment tends to run longer and puts more early work into stability and emotional regulation before processing memories.

No, not at the first appointment and not before you are ready. Assessment focuses on your symptoms and their impact, and you can complete it without recounting the event. Some therapies do involve revisiting the memory later, and this is always explained, planned and paced with you first. You can stop or slow down at any point.

Yes. Trauma-focused therapies have been used successfully with people whose symptoms have been present for decades, including veterans and survivors of childhood abuse. How long the symptoms have been there matters less than whether the memory is still being processed as a current threat. Long-standing PTSD may take more sessions, and outcomes vary between people.

Yes. A registered psychologist can assess and diagnose PTSD using a clinical interview and validated questionnaires, and can provide a written summary for your GP, insurer or employer. Psychologists do not prescribe medication. If medication is likely to help alongside therapy, your psychologist will recommend a review with your GP or a psychiatrist.

Yes, you are welcome to bring someone to your first appointment, and many people do. They can help with history and with remembering the plan. Part of the session is usually spent one to one so you can speak freely. Later sessions are generally individual, though family may be included where it supports the treatment plan.