Occupational therapy can be life-changing for people with disabilities. It helps them gain independence and improve their everyday skills. But is occupational therapy covered by NDIS?
Thankfully, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides funding for occupational therapy services. It supports Australians who live with a permanent and significant disability and helps them participate in everyday life.
Let's take a closer look at how occupational therapy fits into NDIS funding and how you can make the most of it. Here, we answer some of the most common questions about NDIS and occupational therapy, such as what the types of funding required are and how you can access occupational therapy services through the NDIS.
How do you access NDIS funding for occupational therapy?
Under the NDIS, occupational therapy services fall into the "Capacity Building" category, which focuses on helping participants develop skills and increase their independence. Specifically, occupational therapy is included in the "Improved Daily Living" sub-category.
This type of funding covers allied health assessments, therapy sessions, and training to help you or your loved one improve daily life skills and participation in the community. For example, if your NDIS plan includes funding for occupational therapy, you might use it for therapy that supports your child in managing developmental challenges, like physical or cognitive delays.
Occupational therapists work closely with individuals and their families to achieve goals related to personal care, social participation, and independence. To ensure you can access these services, double-check that your NDIS plan includes funding under the Capacity Building section, particularly within the "Improved Daily Living" sub-category.
How do you locate an occupational therapist?
Once your NDIS plan is in place and you've confirmed that it includes occupational therapy, the next step is finding a service provider in your area. There are several ways to do this:
Use the NDIS Provider Finder Tool
The NDIS Provider Finder Tool allows you to search for registered providers near you by entering your postcode and the type of service you need, such as "therapeutic supports." It's a great starting point to find occupational therapy services close to home.
Seek Support from Your Coordinator
Your local area coordinator (LAC), support coordinator, or early childhood partner can also guide you in finding the right provider. They have access to a wide network of NDIS-approved services and can help you make an informed choice.
Online Searches
If you prefer a broader search, looking up occupational therapists in your area online is another option. Many providers, such as Steps2Life, have easy-to-use enquiry forms on their websites to help you get started with services or join a waitlist.
Whether you use the NDIS provider tool or do an online search, it's important to ensure that your chosen provider is registered with the NDIS if you want to use your funding directly. If the provider isn't registered, you may need to use self-managed or plan-managed funding to access their services.
What type of NDIS and occupational therapy assistance is available?
Occupational therapists offer a wide range of support, all designed to help individuals with disabilities lead more independent, fulfilling lives. Through the NDIS, the following services and supports may be available:
- Functional assessments to evaluate your abilities and identify areas for improvement.
- Home modifications such as installing ramps, grab rails, or altering the layout of a home to increase accessibility and safety.
- Assistive technology recommendations, including devices like wheelchairs, eating aids, or communication tools.
- Skill development programs aimed at improving daily living skills such as dressing, cooking, or personal care.
- Therapeutic interventions to help improve motor skills, cognitive functioning, and emotional well-being.
Here are just some of the specific ways occupational therapists can support you through NDIS:
- Toilet training
- Developing routines and play skills
- Tactile and emotional control
- Employment support
- Mobility training
- Social skill growth and improvement
And much more.
In addition to the core services mentioned, occupational therapists work with participants across all stages of life—from early childhood interventions to adult rehabilitation. Their expertise covers areas such as mental health support, rehabilitation following injury or illness, and long-term disability management. This broad scope of service allows occupational therapists to provide tailored care that directly addresses the unique needs and goals of each NDIS participant.
Occupational therapy also extends beyond individual treatment sessions. Therapists often collaborate with other healthcare providers, educators, and family members to ensure a holistic approach to care.
This multi-disciplinary approach aims to provide participants with comprehensive strategies that can be applied across various settings, helping them integrate skills learned in therapy into their everyday lives. It ensures that individuals receive the most effective, long-lasting support possible and that every aspect of their life—at home, in school, or within the community—is supported.
What Are the Benefits of NDIS Occupational Therapy for Children?
Early intervention for children with permanent or significant disabilities can be highly effective. It equips children with the tools they need to succeed later in life, promoting greater independence and the ability to actively participate in their communities as they grow older.
Occupational therapy addresses a range of developmental issues, including motor skill challenges, sensory processing difficulties, and developmental delays. By focusing on these areas early, children are more likely to develop the skills they need to manage everyday tasks, setting a strong foundation for future growth.
Therapists often use play-based methods to engage children in therapy. This approach not only makes sessions fun and interactive but also encourages children to participate more fully in their treatment.
Talk to Us for NDIS and Occupational Therapy Support
Navigating the NDIS can feel overwhelming, but Steps2Life is here to help. We specialise in providing occupational therapy services to NDIS participants, offering personalised support to help you or your loved one reach important life goals. Whether you need allied health assessments or ongoing therapy sessions, our team is ready to assist.
To learn more about how Steps2Life can support your NDIS plan, give us a call at 1300 009 006 or visit our website to explore our full range of services. We're here to make sure you get the most out of your NDIS funding and live a more independent, fulfilling life.
