Recovering Emotionally After a Car Accident: How ICBC Counselling Can Help

A car accident can change your life in an instant. Beyond the physical injuries, many people experience emotional and psychological distress that can linger long after the crash. If you’ve been in an accident, it’s important to take care of your mental well-being as part of your recovery process.

Fortunately, ICBC’s Enahnced Care Program provides pre-approved counselling sessions to help you cope with the emotional impact of a motor vehicle accident. Here’s what you need to know to access these benefits and start feeling like yourself again.

ICBC’s Enhanced Care Program – How It Works

ICBC’s Enhanced Care program automatically covers pre-approved treatments, including counselling, within the first 12 weeks after your accident. This means you don’t need a doctor’s referral to begin therapy – you can book your sessions right away. Early intervention matters, Getting support as soon as possible helps prevent long-term emotional struggles and speeds up recovery.

How Counselling Can Help After a Car Accident

Even minor accidents can lead to emotional distress, affecting your daily life and overall well-being. Common post-accident mental health challenges include:

• Driving-Related Anxiety: Feeling uneasy or fearful about getting back behind the wheel or riding in a vehicle.
• Mood Changes and Low Motivation: Struggling with persistent sadness, frustration, or a sense of hopelessness during the recovery process.
• Trauma Responses: Experiencing distressing memories, nightmares, or increased nervousness when encountering traffic situations.
• Disruptions in Sleep Patterns: Having difficulty falling or staying asleep due to intrusive thoughts or discomfort.

Counselling provides a safe space to process these emotions, learn effective coping strategies, and regain confidence in your daily routine.

How to Start Your ICBC Counselling: 

1. Obtain Your ICBC Claim Number – Report your accident to ICBC and receive your unique claim number within 12 weeks after your accident. 
2. Provide Basic Information: When booking your appointment, we’ll need:
   • Your ICBC claim number
   • Your accident date
3. Schedule Your Counselling Session with an ICBC mental health provider. You can find one here: https://journey-therapy.ca/icbc-counselling/

Recovering from a car accident isn’t just about healing physically – it’s about restoring your emotional well-being too. If you’ve been in a motor vehicle accident and are struggling with anxiety, stress, or trauma, don’t wait to seek support.