NDIS Occupational Therapy Services | Adelaide

Thrive Health Therapies provides NDIS occupational therapy for children and adults throughout metropolitan Adelaide. Our occupational therapists help participants develop everyday skills, improve independence, access assistive technology and participate more fully at home, school, work and in the community. We also provide Functional Capacity Assessments, assistive technology assessments, home modification assessments and reports to support NDIS planning and decision-making.

Appointments are available at our Findon clinic and in homes and community settings across Adelaide.

Occupational therapist and client talking during an assessment at our Findon Clinic

What Is NDIS Occupational Therapy?

NDIS occupational therapy supports people with disability to participate in everyday activities and work towards goals that are important to them.

An occupational therapist considers the activities a person needs or wants to do, their individual abilities and the environments in which those activities take place. They can then recommend therapy, practical strategies, equipment, environmental changes or other supports.

Depending on your goals, NDIS occupational therapy may help with:

  • Personal care and daily routines

  • Mobility and transfers

  • Preparing meals and completing household tasks

  • Emotional and sensory regulation

  • Learning, play and school participation

  • Accessing work, recreation and the community

  • Building confidence and independence

  • Assistive technology and equipment

  • Home safety and accessibility

  • Support needs and NDIS planning

Our occupational therapists provide both ongoing therapy and individual assessments and reports.

Physiotherapist smiling assisting client who is using a  rehabilitation equipment

Who Do Our NDIS Occupational Therapists Support?

Thrive Health Therapies provides NDIS occupational therapy for children, teenagers and adults with a wide range of disabilities and support needs.

This includes people with:

  • Autism

  • Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

  • Intellectual disability

  • Developmental delay

  • Learning disabilities

  • Cerebral palsy

  • Acquired brain injury

  • Traumatic brain injury

  • Stroke

  • Spinal cord injury

  • Multiple sclerosis

  • Parkinson’s disease

  • Motor neurone disease

  • Dementia

  • Functional neurological disorder

  • Genetic conditions

  • Physical disabilities

  • Psychosocial disability

  • Sensory processing differences

  • Chronic pain or fatigue

  • Other neurological or neuromuscular conditions

A diagnosis alone does not determine whether a particular occupational therapy service is appropriate. Our team will consider your goals, functional needs and the expertise required when matching you with an occupational therapist.

NDIS Occupational Therapy Services We Provide

Our Adelaide occupational therapists provide therapy, assessments and reports based on each participant’s individual needs and NDIS goals.

Functional Capacity Assessments

A Functional Capacity Assessment examines how a person’s disability affects their ability to complete everyday activities and participate at home and in the community.

The assessment may explore:

  • Personal care

  • Domestic activities

  • Mobility

  • Communication

  • Cognition

  • Emotional regulation

  • Community participation

  • Education or employment

  • Current formal and informal supports

  • Assistive technology

  • Home and living needs

The occupational therapist provides a report outlining their findings and recommendations for appropriate supports.

Learn more about Functional Capacity Assessments

Psychosocial Functional Capacity Assessments

Our occupational therapists can complete Functional Capacity Assessments for people living with psychosocial disability.

These assessments consider how mental health and other factors affect daily routines, self-care, relationships, decision-making, community participation, work or study and the management of everyday responsibilities.

Home and Living Assessments

Occupational therapists can assess a participant’s daily support needs and living environment to inform NDIS Home and Living requests.

Depending on the participant’s circumstances, this may include assessment related to:

  • Supported Independent Living

  • Specialist Disability Accommodation

  • Individualised Living Options

  • Assistance with daily living

  • Changes to existing living arrangements

The assessment and recommendations will be based on the participant’s current functional needs, goals, preferences and available evidence.

Assistive Technology Assessments

Assistive technology can help participants complete everyday activities more safely and independently.

Our occupational therapists can assess, trial and recommend equipment such as:

  • Wheelchairs and specialised seating

  • Mobility scooters

  • Beds and mattresses

  • Hoists and slings

  • Shower chairs and commodes

  • Recliner chairs

  • Pressure care equipment

  • Daily living equipment

  • Low-cost assistive technology

The assessment process depends on the complexity of the equipment and applicable NDIS requirements.

Learn more about assistive technology assessments

Wheelchair and Seating Assessments

Our occupational therapists can assess posture, mobility, positioning, pressure care and functional needs when recommending a wheelchair or specialised seating system.

This may involve equipment trials, collaboration with suppliers, supporting documentation and training once the equipment has been provided.

Learn more about wheelchair assessments

Home Modification Assessments

Home modifications may improve safety, accessibility and independence within a participant’s home.

Our occupational therapists can assess the home environment and recommend modifications such as:

  • Grab rails

  • Ramps

  • Accessible showers

  • Doorway or access changes

  • Bathroom modifications

  • Other minor or complex accessibility changes

Recommendations depend on the participant’s functional needs, goals, home environment and NDIS requirements.

Learn more about home modification assessments

Manual Handling Assessments and Training

Our occupational therapists can assess manual handling needs and develop practical recommendations for family members, carers and support workers.

This may include guidance about transfers, positioning, equipment use and safe support techniques.

Therapy and Capacity Building

Ongoing occupational therapy can help participants develop skills and strategies for everyday life.

Therapy may focus on:

  • Personal care and self-management

  • Household tasks and meal preparation

  • Planning, organisation and executive functioning

  • Emotional and sensory regulation

  • Fine and gross motor skills

  • Cognitive strategies

  • Community access

  • Social participation

  • Education or employment

  • Confidence and independence

  • Establishing meaningful routines

  • Carer and support worker education

Therapy goals and activities are individualised according to the participant’s needs, interests and priorities.

NDIS Occupational Therapy for Children

Our paediatric occupational therapists support children and teenagers with everyday activities at home, school, kindergarten and in the community.

Therapy may focus on:

  • Emotional regulation

  • Sensory processing

  • Fine and gross motor skills

  • Handwriting

  • Play

  • Self-care

  • Toileting

  • Executive functioning

  • School participation

  • Building independence

We use a family-centred and neuroaffirming approach that respects each child’s strengths, communication preferences and individual way of experiencing the world.

Learn more about children’s occupational therapy

NDIS Occupational Therapy for Adults

Our adult occupational therapists help participants improve or maintain independence and participate more fully in everyday life.

Support may include:

  • Daily living and functional assessments

  • Personal care and household activities

  • Community participation

  • Cognitive rehabilitation and strategies

  • Fatigue and energy management

  • Emotional and sensory regulation

  • Assistive technology

  • Home modifications

  • Manual handling

  • Carer and support worker education

  • Functional Capacity Assessments

  • Home and Living assessments

Services are based on each participant’s abilities, goals, environment and support needs.

Learn more about our occupational therapy services

What Happens at an NDIS Occupational Therapy Assessment?

Your first appointment allows the occupational therapist to understand what is important to you, what is currently going well and where you may require support.

Depending on the purpose of the assessment, your occupational therapist may:

  • Discuss your goals and priorities

  • Ask about your daily routines and current supports

  • Observe you completing relevant activities

  • Assess physical, cognitive, sensory or psychosocial functioning

  • Review previous reports or clinical information

  • Consider your home, school, workplace or community environment

  • Use standardised assessments where appropriate

  • Identify practical strategies or equipment

  • Discuss appropriate therapy or assessment recommendations

The assessment process will be adapted to your communication preferences and individual circumstances.

If a report is required, your occupational therapist will explain its purpose, likely scope and expected timeframes.

How NDIS Occupational Therapy Funding Works

Occupational therapy is commonly funded through the Capacity Building – Improved Daily Living budget.

Some assistive technology, home modification and Home and Living services may involve different NDIS budgets, evidence requirements or approval processes.

The way you access services also depends on how your NDIS funding is managed:

  • Self-managed: You can generally choose registered or unregistered providers and pay invoices directly before claiming reimbursement.

  • Plan-managed: Your plan manager receives and pays invoices on your behalf.

  • NDIA-managed: You must use an NDIS-registered provider for relevant supports.

Thrive Health Therapies can work with self-managed, plan-managed and NDIA-managed participants.

If you are unsure whether your plan can be used for a particular occupational therapy service, contact our team before your first appointment.

Where We Provide NDIS Occupational Therapy

Our Findon Clinic

We provide NDIS occupational therapy at our accessible clinic at 184 Findon Road, Findon.

The clinic includes a rehabilitation gym with specialised equipment and dedicated paediatric therapy spaces. Appointments can be adapted for people with different mobility, sensory and accessibility requirements.

At home

Physiotherapist assisting client who is using a walking frame and wearing a moon boot during a physiotherapy session at home

Our occupational therapists provide home visits throughout metropolitan Adelaide.

Home-based appointments allow the occupational therapist to understand your usual environment, assess everyday activities and develop strategies using the equipment and spaces available to you.

At School or Kindergarten

Child and therapist at school during childrens occupational therapy session using NDIS funding

Paediatric occupational therapy may be provided at a child’s school or kindergarten when this is appropriate for their goals. With the appropriate consent, our occupational therapists can observe classroom participation, collaborate with educators and develop practical strategies for the educational environment.

In the community

Client in wheelchair and therapist assisting during a NDIS assessment in the community

Occupational therapy can take place in community settings when this is relevant to the participant’s goals.

Sessions may focus on community access, public transport, shopping, recreation, social participation or practising everyday skills in real-world environments.

Telehealth

A child and mother at home during a telehealth session for NDIS funded occupational therapy

Some occupational therapy services can be provided through secure video appointments. Telehealth may be suitable for consultations, education, therapy, progress reviews or collaboration with families and support teams. Your occupational therapist will discuss whether telehealth is appropriate for the service you require.

Our Approach to NDIS Occupational Therapy

Every participant has different strengths, experiences, priorities and support needs. Our occupational therapists take the time to understand what matters to you and how you would like therapy to support your everyday life.

Services are practical, individualised and connected to meaningful goals. Depending on your needs, occupational therapy may focus on building skills, maintaining current abilities, adapting activities or environments, or accessing appropriate equipment and supports.

We work collaboratively with participants, families, carers, support workers, support coordinators and other health professionals where appropriate.

Our occupational therapists can also coordinate with Thrive’s physiotherapists, speech pathologists and allied health assistants when multidisciplinary support would be beneficial.

Why Choose Thrive Health Therapies for NDIS Occupational Therapy?

  • Children’s and adult services: Our occupational therapists support children, teenagers and adults.

  • Experienced occupational therapists: Our team has experience across therapy, assessments, assistive technology and home modifications.

  • Individualised support: Services are based on each participant’s goals, abilities and priorities.

  • Flexible locations: Appointments are available at our Findon clinic and in homes, schools and community settings across metropolitan Adelaide.

  • Accessible clinic: Our Findon clinic includes a rehabilitation gym, specialised equipment and paediatric therapy spaces.

  • Neuroaffirming practice: We respect and support different ways of thinking, communicating and experiencing the world.

  • Collaborative care: We can work with your family, support team and other health professionals.

  • Multidisciplinary services: Physiotherapy, speech pathology and allied health assistant services are also available through Thrive.

  • LGBTQIA+ inclusive: We welcome people and families of all backgrounds, genders and sexualities. Our Findon clinic is a safe, respectful and inclusive space.

Meet our NDIS Occupational Therapists

Renee Romeo (she/her)

Clinical Director/Senior Occupational Therapist

Renee has 18 years experience working as an OT with paediatric clients. She works with children with Autism, Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, developmental disorders, genetic disorders, learning difficulties and other developmental areas. As our Clinical Director, Renee provides guidance and training to our therapists and is the first point of call to answer any clinical enquiries from clients, parents and other informal and formal supports. Outside work Renee enjoys cycling, surfing and spending time with her family.

Deborah Harvey (she/her)

Senior Occupational Therapist

Deb is an Occupational Therapist with over 20 years of experience across clinical, leadership, and management roles. Her background includes work in acute and subacute health, disability, medico-legal, vocational rehabilitation, mental health, and teaching. She has worked in both public and private sectors and is passionate about helping clients achieve their goals through evidence-based practice. Outside of work, Deb enjoys gardening, horse-riding, the beach, and spending time with her family and friends.

Sonja Kumar (she/her)

Senior Occupational Therapist

Sonja has over 15 years of experience as an occupational therapist, including five years working within the NDIS. She has extensive expertise in completing functional capacity assessments for adults with a wide range of diagnoses, from neurological conditions to intellectual and psychosocial disabilities. Sonja has experience supporting people with conditions including stroke, traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, cerebral palsy, dementia and autism. Outside of work, she enjoys baking, reading and spending time at the park.

Jessamy Blair (she/her)

Senior Occupational Therapist

Jessamy has 10 years of experience working as an occupational therapist in community settings with NDIS participants. She has a strong interest in supporting adults with neurological conditions and has worked predominantly with individuals with acquired brain injury (ABI). Jessamy also has experience supporting people with intellectual and psychosocial disabilities and spinal cord injuries to improve their independence and participation in everyday activities. She has completed trauma-informed training focused on developing interoceptive awareness and helping people better recognise and respond to their internal body signals.

Gabrielle Brunton (she/her)

Senior Occupational Therapist

Gabi completed a Bachelor of Health Science in 2020 and a Master of Occupational Therapy in 2022. She has gained experience working across both hospital and community settings. Gabi is passionate about improving access to health services in regional and rural communities and supporting people to participate in activities that are meaningful to them. She enjoys working collaboratively with clients to understand their individual priorities and develop practical strategies that support their goals. Outside of work, you’ll find Gabi at the beach, spending time with her family and kelpie, or enjoying cooking.

Jessica Ciarla (she/her)

Senior Occupational Therapist

Jess has over 11 years experience in acute, rehabilitation and community settings working with adults with a range of diagnoses including orthopaedic/vascular conditions, geriatric conditions, neurological disabilities and a range of medical and surgical conditions. Jess has a great interest and passion to work with NDIS participants and support them to achieve their goals and develop new skills and greater independence to maximise their health and wellbeing throughout daily life. In her spare time, Jess enjoys spending time with her family and friends and is a mum to two young daughters.

Nikki Flanagan (she/her)

Senior Occupational Therapist

Nikki has over 15 years of experience as an occupational therapist, primarily in complex rehabilitation. She has worked across acute, inpatient rehabilitation, day rehabilitation and community settings, supporting people with neurological, physical, age-related and degenerative conditions. For the past two years, Nikki has supported adults within the NDIS. She has extensive experience in complex assistive technology prescription and home modifications, helping clients improve their safety and independence at home. Outside of work, she enjoys being a mum to two energetic children and spending time at the beach.

Amy Daymond (she/her)

Senior Occupational Therapist

Amy graduated from Flinders University with a Master of Occupational Therapy in 2021. She has four years of experience working in community-based private practice, primarily supporting participants through the NDIS. Amy has also worked with clients accessing Home Care Packages, Department of Veterans’ Affairs funding, Return to Work programs and Disability Support for Older Australians. She enjoys working collaboratively with clients to provide practical support tailored to their individual needs and goals. Outside of work, Amy enjoys op shopping, discovering new foodie spots and walking with her partner and their energetic Border Collie.

Tracy Goh (she/her)

Senior Occupational Therapist

Tracy graduated from the University of South Australia with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) and has four years of experience in community-based private practice. She has supported clients through the NDIS, Return to Work, Home Care Packages, the DHS Equipment Program and DVA. Before becoming an occupational therapist, Tracy completed qualifications in engineering, computer science and business administration, bringing a broad problem-solving perspective to her practice. Outside of work, she enjoys cooking and creative hobbies including sewing, painting, crochet and candle making.

Chris Kopsaftis (he/him)

Senior Occupational Therapist

Chris completed a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) at the University of South Australia. He has worked across metropolitan and regional South Australia and remotely in the Northern Territory, supporting people with physical, cognitive and psychosocial needs. His experience includes ongoing therapy, complex home modifications and assistive technology prescription to improve independence, safety and confidence. Chris provides holistic, person-centred support to NDIS, My Aged Care, DVA and private clients. He has experience working across the lifespan, from children aged six through to older adults in their nineties.

Katherine Banning (she/her)

Senior Occupational Therapist

Katherine is an experienced occupational therapist who graduated in 2007 and has worked extensively across NDIS, DVA and SAHA settings. She supports adults with neurological conditions, physical and cognitive disabilities, mental health conditions, ageing-related needs and complex care requirements. Katherine has particular expertise in functional capacity, home and living, home modification and assistive technology assessments. She is also experienced in prescribing wheelchairs, mobility aids, scooters and personal care equipment, with additional training in wheelchair prescription, home modifications and stair lifts.

Anna Temme (she/her)

Senior Occupational Therapist

Anna is a Senior Occupational Therapist with over 20 years of experience across public health, private practice and community settings. She has supported people of all ages with diverse physical, cognitive, functional and psychosocial needs, including extensive experience with NDIS participants. Anna provides functional capacity assessments, tailored therapy and assistive technology prescription to support independence and quality of life. Her collaborative, person-centred approach helps clients feel comfortable and supported throughout their therapy journey.

Elise Vaughan (she/her)

Occupational Therapist

Elise is a compassionate Occupational Therapist with experience supporting children and adults with varied disabilities, including complex trauma. She provides 1:1 assessment and intervention, conducts formal and informal assessments, and supports families through parent and carer education. Elise has undertaken further professional development in areas including toilet training and mental health. She creates neurodiversity-affirming and trauma-informed environments where young people feel safe, supported, and understood. Outside of work, she enjoys Pilates, wakeboarding and catching up with friends and family.

Dominque Sherratt (she/her)

Occupational Therapist

Dominique is an occupational therapist with experience across the disability and community sectors. She supports people to build independence, choice and meaningful participation through a client-centred, neuroaffirming and trauma-informed approach. Dominique works collaboratively with clients, families and multidisciplinary teams to identify strengths, reduce barriers and support participation at home and in the community. She has managed complex caseloads across regional and metropolitan South Australia, with a focus on NDIS supports, functional capacity assessments and capacity-building interventions.

Caitlyn Yeo (she/her)

Occupational Therapist

Caitlyn graduated with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) from the University of South Australia in 2021. She has experience supporting children across clinic, school, home, and community settings. Caitlyn is passionate about helping children feel confident and capable in their everyday routines, with particular interest in sensory processing, emotional regulation, daily living skills, and social participation. She is dedicated to providing individualised, neurodiversity‑affirming, trauma‑informed support in collaboration with families, educators, and other professionals.

Emily Ielasi (she/her)

Occupational Therapist

Emily is an Occupational Therapist dedicated to helping children build independence, confidence, and participation in everyday activities. She has experience in both clinic and school settings, supporting children to develop motor skills, sensory processing, self-care, social participation, and emotional regulation. Currently completing a Postgraduate Certificate in Autism Studies at Griffith University, she continues to expand her expertise in inclusive education, neurodiversity, sensory and behavioural supports, and person-centred practice. Emily has also completed training in attachment-based and trauma-informed approaches. Outside of work, she enjoys staying active, cooking, and spending time with family and friends.

Brenton Kiesau (he/him)

Occupational Therapist

Brenton is an Occupational Therapist who completed a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) in 2021. He also holds qualifications in mechanical engineering, bringing a strong technical and practical perspective to his clinical practice.

Brenton delivers community-based assessments and interventions across NDIS and support at home settings. His experience includes functional capacity and home and living assessments, assistive technology prescription, complex seating, minor and complex home modifications, cognitive and home safety assessments, and activities of daily living capacity building.

Adriana Sapio (she/her)

Senior Occupational Therapist

Adriana has 13 years of experience as an occupational therapist across residential care and community paediatric settings. She has worked both as an occupational therapist and a vision assistive technology specialist, developing strong experience in supporting people with vision-related needs. Adriana also has extensive experience working within the NDIS and providing practical, individualised support based on each client’s needs and goals. She values helping people build independence and participate more confidently in everyday activities. Outside of work, Adriana enjoys travelling, hiking, climbing and drawing.

Frequently Asked Questions About NDIS Occupational Therapy

If you can’t find an answer to your question, please contact our friendly team on 0474 248 081 or email enquiries@thrivehealththerapies.com.

Additional NDIS Therapies We Offer

Client smiling lifting a dumbbell during a NDIS physiotherapy home visit session in Adelaide

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