What is Victims Services Counselling and how can it help you heal?
- Alison Howarth
- Jun 16
- 4 min read
Experiencing a crime can change everything in an instant. Whether it was a recent event or something that happened years ago, the impacts of trauma can stay with you—affecting your sense of safety, your relationships, your confidence, and even the way your body feels each day. If you are living in New South Wales (NSW) and have been affected by a crime, you may be eligible for Victims Services Counselling, a government-funded program through the NSW Department of Communities and Justice.
This counselling is designed to give you free, confidential, trauma-informed support so that you don’t have to go through the healing journey alone. At Nepean Cottage Counselling, I provide online counselling sessions for people using Victims Services, helping people across NSW find hope, safety, and new strength after trauma.
Understanding Victims Services counselling
Victims Services provides practical and emotional support to people impacted by violent crime in NSW. One of the key parts of this support is access to free counselling sessions with an approved counsellor. These sessions are funded, so there is no cost to you, and they are tailored to your needs, whether you are seeking help for the first time or have been living with trauma for many years.
Victims Services Counselling is available for:
People directly affected by violent crime
Family members who have been impacted
Witnesses to crime who are experiencing ongoing effects
The goal is not only to reduce the distress caused by trauma but also to support you in reclaiming your life, reconnecting with your strengths, and moving toward healing.
How does the funding work?
Many people worry about the cost of counselling, but through Victims Services, your sessions are fully funded by the NSW Government. Once you apply and are approved, you are allocated a certain number of sessions with an experienced counsellor of your choice. At Nepean Cottage Counselling, I can guide you through the process of connecting with Victims Services if you are unsure where to begin.
The program allows you to:
Access multiple sessions at no cost
Work at your own pace without financial stress
Choose an Approved Counsellor who specialises in trauma and can work with you to help you move forward
What to expect in counselling
If you have never been to counselling before, it’s natural to feel uncertain or even nervous. Many people wonder: What will I say? Will the counsellor understand me? What if I’m not ready to talk about everything?
Here’s what you can expect in Counselling with Nepean Cottage:
A safe and non-judgmental space: You decide what you want to share, and we go at your pace.
Trauma-informed care: With over 30 years of experience in the trauma sector, I understand how deeply crime can impact every part of life, and I work gently to ensure you feel supported.
Practical strategies for coping: We might explore grounding techniques, ways to manage anxiety, or tools for better sleep.
A focus on healing and growth: Counselling isn’t just about talking through the past; it’s also about finding ways forward, rediscovering your strengths, and creating a life that feels safe and meaningful again.
The benefits of online counselling
All counselling sessions at Nepean Cottage Counselling are held online, making support accessible no matter where you live in NSW. This can be especially important if you are in a regional or rural area, or if leaving home feels difficult after trauma.
Online counselling means you can:
Access sessions from the safety of your own home
Save time on travel and waiting rooms
Choose a comfortable, private space that helps you feel at ease
Many people find that online counselling makes it easier to open up and engage in the process of healing.
Healing after trauma: From surviving to thriving
Trauma can leave lasting marks, but it does not define who you are. Counselling through Victims Services is about more than just surviving day to day—it’s about building a path toward post-traumatic growth.
This means you can discover:
A renewed sense of inner strength
Greater compassion for yourself and others
A clearer sense of your values and what matters most
The ability to feel joy and connection again
Healing after crime is not always a straight line. There may be ups and downs, but with the right support, many people find themselves not only recovering but also growing in ways they never imagined possible.
Why choose Nepean Cottage counselling?
With over 30 years of experience supporting people impacted by trauma, I understand the unique challenges that come with counselling after crime. My approach is warm, gentle, and deeply respectful of each person’s story.
When you work with Nepean Cottage Counselling, you can expect:
Specialised trauma counselling expertise
Victims Services approved sessions
Flexible online appointments
Compassionate support tailored to your pace and needs
I have had the privilege of supporting thousands of people through some of the most difficult moments in their lives. You don’t have to carry this burden alone, healing is possible, and you deserve support.
How to access Victims Services counselling
If you think you may be eligible for Victims Services Counselling in NSW, the first step is to apply through the Victims Services website or phone line. Once approved, you can choose an Approved Counsellor like myself to begin your sessions.
If the process feels overwhelming, I am happy to provide guidance to help you get started.
Taking the next step
Reaching out for counselling after a crime is a brave and important step. It’s natural to feel hesitant but remember: you don’t have to go through this alone. With the support of Victims Services and the care of an experienced counsellor, you can begin to rebuild safety, find your strength, and take steps toward a more hopeful future.
At Nepean Cottage, I offer a safe, confidential space for you to begin your healing journey. Together, we can work gently toward moving past the trauma, reconnecting with life, and embracing the journey towards post-traumatic growth.
Final Words
If you’ve been affected by crime in NSW and are considering counselling, know that help is available. Victims Services Counselling can provide the support, safety, and guidance you need to move forward.
With over three decades of experience in trauma counselling, I am here to walk alongside you on your journey of healing. All sessions are held online for your convenience and comfort.
You’ve already taken the first step by exploring your options, the next step is reaching out.
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