The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) has recently introduced a new support called psychosocial recovery coaching. What is it, and how does it differ from a support coordinator? We speak to Nicholas Marcinkowski from Recovery Plus Support, the provider of this new support, to learn more.

In a nutshell, a recovery coach helps people with a psychosocial disability navigate their NDIS plan and supports them to manage their day-to-day challenges. They work collaboratively with a participant, their family, carers and service providers to design, plan and implement a support strategy to achieve their NDIS goals.

This is a very similar approach to that of Support Coordination, however, a recovery coach has additional mental health qualifications and expertise that focus on the complexities of a psychosocial diagnosis. This means that they have been trained to specifically support individuals with a psychosocial diagnosis to maximise their potential and lead a full and meaningful life.

Recovery coaches also work with a participant to develop, set and monitor their goals. They will assist them to identify their strengths, needs, and challenges as they navigate their way through the various processes of the NDIS. Recovery coaches are also able to provide emotional and practical support to help people with a psychosocial disability access the right services, find relevant resources and connect them with formal and informal support networks.

The NDIS has released a psychosocial recovery coaching factsheet and guidelines to give an overview of what this support is about. The document states that a recovery coach “will help you find and engage with NDIS services that foster growth, resilience and informed decision-making.”

What are the characteristics of a good recovery coach?

Like other supported living providers, recovery coaches are highly specialised in their field. They will have tertiary qualifications in peer work and/or mental health, and most have lived experience with a mental health condition. Most have a passion for helping others to achieve their goals and live a fulfilling life, regardless of whether they are able to overcome their mental health condition or not.

 This is a particularly effective strategy when working with someone who may have experienced trauma, and can help them to build resilience.

Ultimately, recovery coaching is a support to help participants gain more control over their lives and to enable them to achieve their hopes, aspirations and dreams. It is an exciting addition to the NDIS and is a great opportunity for people with a psychosocial disability.

If you think a recovery coach could be beneficial for you, talk to your local area coordinator or NDIA planner about adding this support item to your NDIS plan. You can find more information on how to request a recovery coach by visiting the NDIS website or speak to your NDIA planner. You can also ask your NDIA planner or LAC to provide options on who may suit you and what providers are available in your local area.