What Most People Don’t Know About NDIS Occupational Therapy
In 2025, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) continues to evolve, and with it, the role of occupational therapy within the system. More Australians are accessing NDIS occupational therapy services than ever before, yet many participants remain unaware of the full scope of support available to them. In fact, this support often goes underused because of common myths or lack of information. The demand for these services has grown significantly, particularly as awareness spreads about the diverse ways occupational therapists can help people with disabilities achieve their goals.
Whether you're a participant, carer, or provider, learning the truth about this service can help you get more out of your plan. This article explores the lesser-known facts about NDIS occupational therapy and how it can change lives.
What Is NDIS Occupational Therapy?
NDIS occupational therapy services support people with physical, mental, or developmental conditions to build skills and do everyday tasks. These tasks could include anything from getting dressed to managing time, cooking meals, or catching public transport. The goal is to help participants become more independent in areas that matter to them.
Under the NDIS, this support is usually funded through the "Improved Daily Living" budget. Therapists must be registered with AHPRA and understand the unique goals of each participant. The service isn't only for those with physical issues. It also supports cognitive, sensory, and emotional challenges.
Who's Eligible And Who's Missing Out?
Any NDIS participant with funding allocated to "Improved Daily Living" can access occupational therapy services without needing a referral from a doctor or other healthcare professional. This includes children with developmental delays, adults with physical disabilities, people with cognitive impairments, and those living with psychosocial disabilities such as depression or anxiety. The beauty of the NDIS system is that it recognises the diverse needs of people with disabilities and provides flexible access to appropriate supports.
Unfortunately, many participants miss out on valuable occupational therapy support because they don't realise they're eligible or don't understand how these services could benefit them. Common misconceptions include the belief that you need to have a visible physical disability to benefit from occupational therapy, or that it's only suitable for people recovering from injuries. In reality, occupational therapists support people with a wide range of conditions, including autism, ADHD, mental health conditions, and invisible disabilities that affect daily functioning.
What Occupational Therapists Can Help With
Functional Capacity Assessments
Occupational therapists conduct comprehensive assessments to understand your current abilities and identify areas where you need support. These assessments form the foundation of your therapy journey and help determine which interventions will be most effective for your specific needs.
Assistive Technology and Equipment
From simple daily living aids to complex communication devices, occupational therapists can recommend and provide training on assistive technology that makes daily tasks easier. They also help participants navigate the NDIS equipment funding process to ensure you get the right tools for your needs.
Home Modifications and Environmental Adaptations
Occupational therapists can assess your home environment and recommend modifications such as grab rails, ramps, or layout changes that improve safety and accessibility. They understand how physical environments impact function and can suggest cost-effective solutions that make a real difference to daily life.
Sensory Integration and Executive Function Support
Many people don't realise that occupational therapists are experts in sensory processing and can help with issues like sensory overload, difficulty concentrating, or problems with planning and organisation. These skills are crucial for success in work, education, and social settings.
Emotional Regulation and Mental Health Support
NDIS occupational therapy includes support for emotional regulation, stress management, and developing coping strategies for mental health challenges. This might involve learning relaxation techniques, developing routines that support wellbeing, or building confidence in social situations.
Social Skills and Community Participation
Occupational therapists help participants develop the skills needed to engage with their communities, from basic social interaction to more complex activities like joining clubs or volunteering. They understand that meaningful participation in community life is essential for overall wellbeing and quality of life.
OT Funding & Session Limits: What They Don’t Tell You
NDIS occupational therapy is usually funded under the "Improved Daily Living” category, so the number of sessions you get may be limited. If not managed well, funding can run out before the therapy goals are achieved. That’s why setting clear goals and planning sessions in advance is important.
Some services, like specialised driver training, need extra funding that’s not always included. Participants often find out too late that certain supports aren't covered unless requested. Understanding how to use your budget wisely can make a big difference.
How OTs Structure Your Support Journey
Occupational therapists often begin with a functional capacity assessment. This helps them understand what a participant can do, what they struggle with, and what support they need. It becomes the foundation for creating a therapy plan.
They also set SMART goals specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. These goals help track progress and make sure the therapy stays focused. By reviewing these goals regularly, both the therapist and participant stay on the same page.
SMART Goal Example: Managing Mornings
An OT may help a participant build a step-by-step routine for getting ready in the morning, using visuals or timers to reduce stress and improve time management.
Tools OTs Use to Track Progress
Some therapists use tools like the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) to track how well a participant is meeting their goals. This provides a clear picture of growth over time.
Telehealth OT: More Than Just a Convenience
The expansion of telehealth services during COVID-19 has revolutionised access to NDIS occupational therapy, particularly for people living in regional and remote areas. It also benefits those who find it hard to travel due to mobility or health issues. By connecting online, therapy can happen in the participant's home, in real time.
Telehealth is often more affordable and quicker to access. It removes waitlists and allows therapists to assess participants in their actual living environments. This can lead to better outcomes and a more personal approach.
Specialist OT for Complex or Less Visible Needs
NDIS occupational therapy also supports people with neurological conditions like Parkinson's disease or acquired brain injuries. Therapists help with tasks like memory training, balance, or fine motor skills. Each plan is tailored to the participant’s specific needs.
Occupational therapy also covers psychosocial disabilities, such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD. Many people don’t realise that these mental health challenges are eligible for OT under the NDIS. OTs can help by building routines, managing emotions, and developing social skills.
Why Raising Awareness Is Important
Even though NDIS occupational therapy is available, many people don’t realise how broad or helpful it is. As a result, they miss out on support that could improve their quality of life. Some even leave funding unused at the end of the plan period.
Spreading awareness can help more people use the services they’re entitled to. It also helps families and support workers know what to ask for during planning meetings. Understanding your rights and options is key to getting the most out of the NDIS.
What You Can Do as a Participant or Provider
Start by reviewing your current NDIS plan to check whether you have funding allocated under "Improved Daily Living" – this is where occupational therapy services are typically funded. If you're not sure how to read your plan or understand your funding categories, ask your Local Area Coordinator or support coordinator for help. During your next plan review, be sure to communicate clearly about your therapy needs and goals, as this information directly influences funding decisions.
Consider exploring telehealth options if you're having trouble accessing local occupational therapy services or if you prefer the convenience and flexibility of online sessions. Don't limit yourself to thinking about occupational therapy in traditional terms – ask potential providers about their experience with life skills training, social skill development, sensory strategies, and other non-obvious support areas. The more you understand about what's available, the better you can advocate for the supports that will make the biggest difference in your life.
Mark J. Chironna, PhD.
