How to Access Mental Health Support Through the NDIS (and Beyond) 

This guide will walk you through how the NDIS supports mental health and how your support provider, like Avivo, can support you even if you’re not funded yet. 

What Is Psychosocial Disability? 

The NDIS uses the term psychosocial disability to describe the challenges people face when a mental health condition significantly affects their ability to take part in everyday life. 

Not everyone with a mental illness has a psychosocial disability. But for those who do, the impact may be ongoing and serious, affecting work, relationships, health, housing, and confidence. 

Some of the most common mental health conditions that can lead to psychosocial disability include: 

• Bipolar disorder 

• Schizophrenia 

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) 

• Severe depression or anxiety 

• Personality disorders 

If these challenges make it hard for you to live independently, maintain routines, or stay connected to your community, you may be eligible for support through the NDIS. 

How Can the NDIS Help With Mental Health? 

The NDIS provides funding for a wide range of supports tailored to your personal goals and needs. This includes help with daily tasks, mental health recovery, employment, therapy, and more. 

Some of the key mental health supports funded by the NDIS include: 

▪️Psychosocial Recovery Coaching 

Designed specifically for people with psychosocial disability, recovery coaches provide both emotional and practical support. They help you build your confidence, set goals, and connect with services that can support your recovery journey. 

▪️Daily Living Support 

Includes help with personal care, housework, shopping, attending appointments, or community participation. 

▪️Capacity Building Supports 

These services help you build independence, whether it’s through budgeting, cooking, travelling, or skill development. 

▪️Allied Health and Therapy Services 

Depending on your needs, this may include funding for psychology, occupational therapy, social work, or behaviour support. 

How Do I Access Mental Health Support Through the NDIS? 

Here’s a simplified overview of the process: 

1. Check your eligibility: You must be aged 9–65 and an Australian citizen or permanent resident. Your mental health condition must be long-term and significantly affect your ability to live your day-to-day life. 

2. Gather supporting documents: You’ll need recent reports or letters from health professionals (such as GPs, psychiatrists, or psychologists) that clearly outline your condition and how it impacts your daily function. 

3. Submit an Access Request: You can apply through the NDIS directly or get help from a Local Area Coordinator (LAC). Call 1800 800 110 or visit ndis.gov.au. 

4. Attend a planning meeting: If approved, you’ll work with the NDIS to create a plan that reflects your goals and outlines the support you’ll receive. 

5. Choose your providers: Once your plan is active, you can begin accessing support from registered providers like Avivo. 

Psychosocial Support at Avivo 

At Avivo, we support people living with mental health conditions both within and outside the NDIS. 

We understand that recovery isn’t always linear, and it doesn’t always start with a diagnosis. That’s why our Psychosocial Support Program, funded by the WA Mental Health Commission, is open to people who: 

• Are aged 18 or over 

• Live with a severe and persistent mental health condition 

• Need non-clinical, day-to-day support 

• May or may not have NDIS funding 

You don’t need to be in crisis. You don’t need a formal clinical diagnosis. What you do need is support that respects your choices, builds your capacity, and helps you feel more confident in your everyday life. 

We can help you: 

• Manage daily routines and home life 

• Set recovery goals and work toward them 

• Connect with social groups or community activities 

• Access housing, employment, or clinical services 

• Rebuild relationships with family, carers or support networks 

We also offer dedicated support for families and carers, including respite, emotional support, information sessions, and help accessing counselling or advocacy services . 

What If I’m Not Eligible for the NDIS? 

You can still get support. Our Psychosocial Support Program was created to fill the gap for people who might not yet qualify for the NDIS, are still waiting for funding, or prefer a more flexible service. 

This support works alongside any clinical services you already access (like your GP or mental health professional) and offers a practical, human-focused approach to wellbeing. 

You can self-refer or be referred by a family member, GP, or service provider. 

Why Choose Avivo? 

With over 50 years of experience, Avivo supports people across WA living with disability, mental ill-health, and ageing-related challenges. We focus on individualised care, local neighbourhood teams, and long-term relationships that make a real difference. 

When you work with us, you can expect: 

• No judgement, no pressure – just real, respectful support 

• Experienced mental health workers trained in psychosocial recovery 

• Flexible supports tailored around your goals and routine 

• Help navigating the NDIS or Mental Health Commission pathways 

• An organisation that values dignity, community, and your voice