When the Claim Becomes the Problem | A Psychologist’s Perspective
EPISODE DESCRIPTION:
“Injury is not fun. No one wakes up and decides, today I’m going to get injured at work.”
But often the hardest part isn’t the injury, it’s navigating a complex workers comp system full of forms, jargon, letters and uncertainty.
In Episode 3 of Behind the Claim, psychologist Matt Semsar joins Stephen to explore why the claims process can feel like salt on the wound, and what actually helps people recover.
- Runtime: 58:50 min
- Category: Business / Health & Wellness / Work Culture
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Episode Overview
Matt brings a rare 360-degree viewpoint, rehab consultant, treating psychologist and an injured worker himself.
This episode digs into why psychological claims are rising, how confusing systems impact recovery, and what insurers, employers and providers can change to make workers comp more human.
Key Takeaways
- The claims process can intensify distress more than the injury itself
- Uncertainty is one of the biggest drivers of psychological decline
- Clear information, early contact and empathy create trust
- Communication gaps lead to prolonged recovery
- Workers need to know they can choose their providers
- Behaviour activation helps rebuild structure and confidence
Episode Timestamps
Use the timestamps below to find the most important parts of the video quickly!
Timestamp | What You’ll Learn |
0:00 | Welcome to Behind the Claims |
1:47 | Why Psychological Claims are Growing |
04:05 | The Injured Worker’s Worldview |
11:06 | Case Study: From Social to Isolated |
21:15 | Who’s to Blame: The System or the People? |
24:25 | How Empathy Can Be Taught |
31:25 | The Biggest Workers Comp Challenge: Uncertainty |
36:45 | How a Complicated Process Hinders Recovery |
41:24 | Why Your Doctor’s Experience Matters |
45:55 | Are Insurers the Enemy? |
48:29 | The Power of Early, Transparent Communication |
58:25 | Final Thoughts & Wrap-Up |
About the Speakers
Stephen Zeng
Director & Podcast Host
Stephen Zeng is the director at AusRehab, committed to helping businesses and workers recover, rebuild, and return to work.
Matt Semsar
Senior Rehabilitation Consultant & Registered Psychologist
Matt works across psychological treatment, rehabilitation planning and complex case management. His unique background allows him to understand the workers comp journey from multiple angles, clinically, operationally and personally.
About Our Services
As a leading workplace rehabilitation provider, we specialise in injury management, return to work programs, workplace ergonomic assessments, and tailored support for businesses and employees. Our track record demonstrates our 100% commitment to producing successful outcomes and empowering individuals to regain their independence.
Workplace Rehabilitation
AusRehab specialises in workplace rehabilitation, helping injured workers recover and return safely to work.
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