Counselling for victims of crime in Victoria
If you have been affected by a violent crime, counselling can be part of how you recover, and you may not need to carry the cost of it yourself. Behavioural Edge Psychology provides psychological counselling for adults under the Victims of Crime Financial Assistance Scheme in Victoria. I am a registered psychologist who works with people living with the effects of trauma, and I can support you through this at a pace that feels manageable.
What the Financial Assistance Scheme covers
The Financial Assistance Scheme, often shortened to the FAS, is the Victorian scheme that replaced VOCAT. It can fund counselling with a registered psychologist for people who have been injured by a violent crime, including psychological injury and trauma. You are able to choose your own psychologist, and you do not need a counselling report to begin. A report is only needed in particular situations, for example when more than twenty sessions are sought and the FAS has asked for one.
You will not be out of pocket for the counselling
The FAS publishes set rates for counselling with a registered psychologist. We bill at those rates, so the counselling itself does not leave you with a gap to pay.
You can begin while your application is assessed
You do not have to wait for a final decision to start. The FAS can fund a small number of sessions on an interim basis while your application is being considered, which means support can begin early if you would like it. We can talk through how this works when you make contact.
How and where I work
My work is trauma-informed and led by you. Sessions move at a pace that feels safe, and you decide what you are ready to talk about. I work with adults experiencing the effects of trauma, including post-traumatic stress, anxiety, low mood, and difficulty feeling settled after a frightening or harmful event. Care is also neurodiversity-affirming, which matters for clients who are autistic, ADHD, or both.
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You can see mein person at our consulting rooms in Caulfield South or St Kilda, or by telehealth anywhere in Australia. Telehealth makes it easier to attend from home, from regional areas, or from wherever you feel most comfortable.
How to get started
Getting started is straightforward. Contact us and we will talk through what you need. If your FAS application requires a quote for counselling, we will prepare one for you to lodge through the FAS portal, either yourself or with help from your lawyer or authorised representative. When you are ready, you can book a session using our online booking page.
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If you need support right now
If you are in immediate danger, call 000. If you need someone to talk to at any hour, Lifeline is available on 13 11 14. This service is not a crisis service, and your safety while you wait for an appointment matters.
Common questions
Can I claim psychology sessions under the Victims of Crime Financial Assistance Scheme?
Yes. The FAS can fund counselling with a registered psychologist for adults who have been injured by a violent crime in Victoria, including psychological injury and trauma.
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Do I need a referral or report to start counselling?
No referral is needed, and you do not need a counselling report for an initial application. A report is only required in particular situations, such as when more than twenty sessions are sought and the FAS has requested one.
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Can I choose my own psychologist?
Yes. The FAS lets you choose your own provider, as long as they meet the scheme requirements. Dr Sarah Fischer is a registered psychologist, AHPRA registration PSY0001719709.
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Will I have to pay anything for the counselling?
The FAS sets the rates it pays for counselling with a registered psychologist. We bill at those rates, so the counselling does not leave you with a gap to pay.
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Can I start counselling before my application is decided?
Yes. The FAS can fund a small number of sessions on an interim basis while your application is assessed, so support can begin early if you would like it.
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How many sessions can I have?
The number depends on your needs and what the FAS approves. If more than twenty sessions are needed, the FAS may ask for a report to support further sessions.
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Do you offer telehealth?
Yes. Dr Fischer offers telehealth across Australia, alongside in-person sessions in Caulfield South and St Kilda.
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How do I apply to the FAS?
Applying is free and is done through the FAS online portal. You can apply yourself or nominate a representative. The Victims Legal Service and the FAS Helpline on 1800 161 136 can help if you need support.