ACC Sensitive Claims
You don’t have to go through this alone
If you’ve experienced sexual harm — recently or in the past — you may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, disconnected, or unsure where to start.
At The Therapy Project, we provide fully funded counselling through ACC Sensitive Claims, offering a safe, supportive space to begin your healing journey at your own pace.
You don’t need a referral.
You don’t need to have reported anything.
You don’t need to have it all figured out.
You’re welcome exactly as you are.
What is ACC Sensitive Claims?
ACC Sensitive Claims is a service that provides free, confidential support for people in Aotearoa New Zealand who have experienced sexual harm.
This can include:
Sexual abuse (childhood or adult)
Sexual assault or rape
Unwanted sexual experiences
Harm that may have happened years ago but is still affecting you
Through this service, you can access:
Funded counselling sessions
Support with understanding your experiences
A space to process trauma safely
Tools to help you feel more grounded, in control, and supported
How we support you
Our approach is trauma-informed, gentle, and collaborative.
We understand that trauma can impact your mind, body, relationships, and sense of safety. There is no “right way” to heal — and we’ll work alongside you to find what feels supportive.
Depending on your needs, therapy may include:
Talking therapy to process your experiences
Support with anxiety, stress, or emotional overwhelm
Understanding trauma responses and triggers
Rebuilding a sense of safety and trust
Somatic (body-based) approaches to support regulation
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) where appropriate
Support with relationships, boundaries, and self-worth
You are always in control of the pace and direction of your sessions.
What to Expect
Starting can feel like the hardest part — we aim to make it as simple and safe as possible.
1. Get in touch
Reach out to our team directly — no GP or referral needed.
2. Initial conversation (covered by ACC)
We’ll arrange a gentle, initial session to understand your needs and ensure this service is the right fit for you.
3. Ongoing counselling
If appropriate, ACC will fund a number of sessions so you can begin your therapeutic journey.
4. Continued support
We review your progress together and can request additional sessions if needed.
Our Team
Our clinicians are experienced in working with trauma and sensitive claims, and are committed to providing care that is:
Safe and non-judgemental
Culturally respectful and inclusive
Grounded in evidence-based approaches
Warm, human, and compassionate
We also recognise the importance of choice and fit — we’ll do our best to match you with a clinician you feel comfortable with.
Is this right for me?
You might benefit from ACC Sensitive Claims support if you are:
Feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or on edge
Struggling with memories or past experiences
Noticing impacts on your relationships or daily life
Feeling disconnected, numb, or stuck
Wanting support but unsure where to begin
Even if you’re not sure whether your experience “counts,” you are welcome to reach out and have a conversation.
A Gentle Note
You don’t have to share everything all at once.
You don’t have to use certain words.
You don’t have to be ready.
We’ll meet you where you are.
Get started
If you’re ready to take the next step — or even just explore your options — we’re here to support you.
👉 Book a confidential appointment
👉 Contact our team to learn more
Additional support options
Alongside individual counselling, we may also offer:
Trauma-informed yoga groups (ACC-funded where approved)
Body-based therapy options
Workshops or group support
These can be a helpful complement to one-on-one therapy.
