Q: What is an Occupational Therapist? Why Great Southern OccuPlay?

Occupational Therapists are trained professionals who help people of all ages and abilities to participate in activities they want to do or have to do as a part of daily life, to help them live a happy and meaningul life! Great Southern OccuPlay provides person centred therapy. With regular participation in play therapy, you see your child’s social skills and engagement in age-appropriate play increase, without the child directly being taught play skills. As your child progresses you will find that their self-confidence, independence and sense of self improves. Your child will be more capable of engaging appropriately with those around them and will be more likely to engage with the toys in their space in an appropriate way, and will facilitate better engagement in school settings to increase capacity for learning and development of peer relationships.

Q: Can you tell me exactly how things will go in therapy?

Every individual is different and my work with your child will be focussed on their experience and who they are. There are stages generally in the play therapy process, and I will discuss these with you as they relate to your child. I will also talk with you about themes I am seeing. I will also look at ways that you can assist your child, linked with the play therapy process. In this play therapy approach, we do not generally talk about the child’s specific play as this can interfere with the child feeling free to express what is there for them.

Q: Can you provide me with a report?

Yes, I can put together a report on progress towards goals indentified, and recommendations for further support.

Q: What ages do you work with?

There is no age limit to the effectiveness of play therapy! It is appropriate for children aged 2-12 years old, as well as teenagers and adults. Research supports the effectiveness of play therapy with people experiencing a wide range of social, emotional, behavioural and learning challenges.

Q: How do I pay for therapy sessions?

A 7-day invoice will be provided for you. Fees are in accordance with NDIS Guidelines, and will be based on a written agreement developed before your first appointment. If you are using NDIS funding to pay for the appointment, the method of payment will be discussed as part of your service agreement. Private health insurance can be claimed with most funds, and rebates will depend on your individual provider.Medicare rebates are available through a Chronic Disease Management care plans, provided by your GP, which entitles your child to up to five subsidised sessions. Eligibility should be discussed with your GP.