Victim services counselling.
Confidential, trauma-informed counselling for victims of violent crime in New South Wales, delivered by Tammy (Thao Tammy Trang), our approved Victims Services NSW counsellor at Earlwood Medical Centre. Sessions are funded through the NSW Victims Support Scheme for eligible patients, usually with no out-of-pocket cost.
Support through the Victims Support Scheme.
The Victims Support Scheme, administered by Victims Services (part of the NSW Department of Communities and Justice), supports people affected by violent crime. Support includes funded counselling with approved providers, financial assistance for immediate needs, and recognition payments in certain circumstances.
Counselling under the scheme is confidential, trauma-informed, and delivered by qualified counsellors, psychologists or social workers approved by Victims Services NSW. SMSG delivers this counselling at Earlwood Medical Centre with Tammy (Thao Tammy Trang), our approved Victims Services NSW counsellor. If you're eligible for support and would like to see Tammy, contact Earlwood reception and we can guide you through the next step.
Set by Victims Services NSW.
Eligibility for counselling and other support through Victims Services NSW is set by the NSW Government. In general, you may be eligible if you have been affected by:
Both direct victims and family members of victims can be eligible for support. Eligibility applies regardless of whether a crime has been reported to police, and regardless of the outcome of any legal proceedings.
For the most current eligibility information, visit the Victims Services NSW website (victimsservices.justice.nsw.gov.au) or call the Victims Access Line on 1800 633 063.
See Tammy, our Victims Services counsellor.
Tammy is our onsite Victims Services counsellor at Earlwood Medical Centre and an approved Victims Services NSW provider, so her counselling can be funded through the scheme for eligible patients, usually with no out-of-pocket cost. There are two easy ways to start.
Book with SMSG directly. Contact Earlwood reception and ask to see Tammy.
- Book a 30-minute assessment with Tammy at Earlwood, no approval needed first.
- She helps with your application and triage during that session.
- Once approved, send us your approval letter and Tammy assigns herself as your counsellor.
Already registered with Victims Services NSW? When you request counselling as part of your support plan, you can ask for a specific approved counsellor by name. Just name Tammy at SMSG Earlwood, and your approved hours can be used with her.
Some situations don't meet eligibility with Victims Services NSW. Reception can discuss the options that apply to your circumstances.
Trauma-informed, at your pace.
Earlwood Medical Centre.
Funded by the Department of Justice.
Counselling under the Victims Support Scheme is funded by the NSW Department of Communities and Justice for eligible patients. Approved patients can access up to 22 funded counselling sessions with Tammy, usually with no out-of-pocket cost.
The initial 30-minute assessment appointment with Tammy (used to help you apply and triage your needs) is privately billed until approval is granted. For patients who don't qualify for the Victims Support Scheme but would like counselling for trauma-related concerns, standard psychology and counselling billing applies. Reception can discuss the arrangements at booking.
Common questions.
Do I need to have reported the crime to police?
Support through Victims Services NSW does not require police reporting. Eligibility criteria are set by Victims Services NSW.
How do I register with Victims Services NSW?
Contact the Victims Access Line on 1800 633 063 or visit victimsservices.justice.nsw.gov.au. Our reception team can also help direct you.
Is what I share confidential?
Yes, with the standard limits that apply to all therapy: your counsellor may need to act on specific safety concerns (immediate risk to yourself or others, harm to a child). Your counsellor will explain this at the first session.
Can I bring a family member to the session?
That's up to you and your counsellor. Some sessions include family members; most are individual.
What if I'm not eligible for Victims Services NSW support?
Standard psychology and counselling remains available. Discuss with reception what options fit your situation. Trauma-informed care is available regardless of eligibility for the Victims Services scheme.
Is Tammy an approved Victims Services counsellor?
Yes. Thao Tammy Trang, based at Earlwood Medical Centre, is an approved Victims Services NSW counsellor. When you request counselling under the Victims Support Scheme, you can name Tammy at SMSG Earlwood so your approved hours are used with her.
What if I need urgent support?
For an immediate mental health crisis or safety concern, dial 000 or call Lifeline on 13 11 14. 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) provides 24-hour national sexual assault and domestic violence support. See our Emergency Information page for full crisis contacts.
