Becoming a victim of crime can be a distressing life event. It can help victims of crime to know that what they are feeling may be normal reactions to an abnormal event. Many of these reactions will fade over a period of weeks, although some might last longer. Victims can cope in different ways.

Counselling can help you recover from the emotional effects of a crime.

Victims of violent crimes that have occurred in NSW may be eligible for free, face to face counselling through the Approved Counselling Scheme.

The counsellors with the scheme are social workers, psychologists, or psychiatrists in private practice who have proven experience in working with victims of crime.

Find out how to apply for free approved counselling to cope with the effects of the crime. There is a list of Approved Counsellors on this website and more information about choosing an Approved Counsellor.

You can discuss your needs with staff on the Victims Access Line (VAL).