How to Fund Therapy in New Zealand: A Step-by-Step Guide
When you’re looking for mental health support, figuring out where to start, and how to pay for it, can be overwhelming. The good news is, there are a number of ways to access free or subsidised therapy in Aotearoa New Zealand, depending on your situation.
When you’re looking for mental health support, figuring out where to start, and how to pay for it, can be overwhelming. The good news is, there are a number of ways to access free or subsidised therapy in Aotearoa New Zealand, depending on your situation.
To make the process easier, we’ve created this step-by-step guide covering all the major funding options available. And if you’re not sure who to see, our new Match Me tool can help you find the right therapist based on your needs, preferences, and goals- no guesswork required.
Let’s break down how to get the support you deserve.
Workplace Support (EAP & Employer-Funded Therapy)
Many workplaces offer free counselling through Employee Assistance Programmes (EAP), and some may even have a direct partnership with a provider like Clearhead.
What to do:
- Ask your manager or HR team if therapy is funded or partially reimbursed.
- If your employer works with Clearhead, simply book a session and enter your employee details—Clearhead will confirm your eligibility and send you a confirmation.
See Your GP (PHO-Funded Therapy)
Your General Practitioner (GP) can refer you to funded mental health support through your local Primary Health Organisation (PHO).
What to expect:
- Up to 6 fully funded sessions with a therapist (often a Clinical Psychologist or Counsellor).
- Your GP may recommend specific services, but you're free to explore and choose a therapist who suits you.
💡 You can search for therapists by specialty, location, or cost on Clearhead’s Find a Therapist page.
ACC-Funded Counselling
If you’ve experienced sexual violence or trauma, ACC will fully fund therapy. For physical injuries, they may cover up to 10 sessions.
What to do:
- You do not need a GP referral to access ACC therapy for sexual harm.
- Find an ACC-registered therapist on Clearhead or through ACC’s website.
WINZ Disability Allowance
Work and Income (WINZ) offers the Disability Allowance, which can contribute up to $64.29 per week toward therapy costs.
Eligibility:
- You must have a diagnosed condition that’s likely to last 6 months or more.
- Your GP and therapist will need to fill out a form.
- You can reapply after 10 sessions.
🔗 Learn more: WINZ Disability Allowance
Student Support Services
If you're a student, your university or polytechnic may provide free or subsidised counselling.
What to do:
- Check your student services, health centre, or wellbeing hub.
- Some campuses also partner with external providers for extended support.
Charitable & Community-Based Services
Many local and national charities offer free or low-cost counselling for specific groups (e.g. youth, Māori, Pacific peoples, survivors of abuse, etc.).
Examples include:
- Piki (18–25-year-olds in Wellington)
- Vibe (Hutt Valley youth)
- Te Piki Oranga (Nelson/Marlborough Māori health services)
- Youthline, Lifeline, Atareira, and others
🔍 Visit your local council or use Healthpoint’s mental health directory to find options in your region.
Self-Funded Therapy
If you can afford it (or have support from someone who can), private therapy is also an option.
What it costs:
- Sessions typically range from $70–$200 per hour.
- Clinical Psychologists usually charge $150+, while Counsellors or Social Workers may charge less.
Use Clearhead’s Find a Therapist tool to filter by price, location, specialty, and availability.
Reaching out for help takes courage and strength, it's one of the bravest steps you can take on your journey to wellbeing and at Clearhead, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Our Match Me tool makes it simple to find a therapist who’s the right fit for you, so you can focus on your healing with confidence and ease.
Whatever path you choose, know that you deserve understanding, compassion, and the right help to guide you through. You’re not alone.
