Navigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can be complex, especially when it comes to understanding the various support services available. Two key services often confused are Level 2 Support Coordination and Psychosocial Recovery Coaching. Here’s a breakdown of the differences:
Level 2 Support Coordination:
- Purpose: Level 2 Support Coordination is designed to assist participants who have more complex support needs and require additional assistance to implement their NDIS plans.
- Role: Support Coordinators at this level work closely with participants, their families, and service providers to coordinate and implement supports outlined in the NDIS plan.
- Skills: Support Coordinators possess strong organisational and communication skills, as well as a deep understanding of the NDIS and available community supports.
- Qualifications: While specific qualifications may vary, Level 2 Support Coordinators typically have experience or qualifications in disability services, social work, or a related field.
- Activities: They assist with plan implementation, connecting participants with service providers, resolving service delivery issues, and monitoring progress towards achieving plan goals.
- Funding: Level 2 Support Coordination is included in an NDIS plan when deemed necessary by the participant’s planner.
Psychosocial Recovery Coaching:
- Purpose: Psychosocial Recovery Coaching focuses on supporting participants with mental health conditions to build skills and capacity for recovery and independence.
- Role: Recovery Coaches provide one-on-one coaching and support to participants, focusing on goal-setting, problem-solving, and developing coping strategies.
- Skills: Recovery Coaches are trained in mental health recovery principles, motivational interviewing, and strengths-based approaches.
- Qualifications: Psychosocial Recovery Coaches typically hold qualifications in psychology, social work, counseling, or a related field. They may also have specific training in mental health recovery coaching.
- Activities: They work collaboratively with participants to identify goals, develop action plans, and provide ongoing support and encouragement to achieve those goals.
- Funding: Psychosocial Recovery Coaching is funded under the Improved Daily Living Skills category of an NDIS plan for participants with mental health conditions.
Key Differences:
- Focus: While both services aim to support participants in achieving their goals, Level 2 Support Coordination focuses on coordinating broader supports outlined in the NDIS plan, whereas Psychosocial Recovery Coaching targets specific skill-building and recovery in mental health.
- Delivery: Level 2 Support Coordination involves more administrative coordination and liaison with service providers, while Psychosocial Recovery Coaching involves direct, goal-oriented coaching sessions with the participant.
- Target Population: Level 2 Support Coordination may be appropriate for participants with diverse disabilities and complex support needs, while Psychosocial Recovery Coaching is specifically tailored for individuals with mental health conditions.
In summary, while Level 2 Support Coordination and Psychosocial Recovery Coaching share the goal of supporting participants in achieving their NDIS plan goals, they differ in focus, delivery approach, target population, and required qualifications. Understanding these differences can help participants make informed decisions about which service aligns best with their needs and goals.
If you are interested in how to become a support coordinator check out our support coordination course.
Contact the Disability Support Project for NDIS support coordinator advice.
