One of the main aims of NDIS funding is to help participants become more independent by giving them more time through the various types of support it offers. One crucial type of support is known as NDIS therapeutic supports.
Therapeutic support includes a range of therapies with the goal of helping people get better at everyday tasks and become more self-reliant. These supports can help with things like taking care of oneself, getting around, spending time with others, and being part of the community.
This blog explains what NDIS therapeutic supports are, the different types available, and how an NDIS support coordinator can assist you with them.
What are NDIS therapeutic supports?
Therapeutic supports have the purpose of enhancing self-reliance, mobility, personal well-being, social interactions, and active involvement in the community. The majority of these supports are included in the budget designated for Capacity Building Supports. This financial allocation has paved the way for participants to engage in various therapeutic interventions.
Here are a few instances of therapeutic support:
- Assistance provided by a nurse for complex healthcare needs
- Counseling sessions for personal growth and emotional assistance
- Help in becoming more engaged within the community
- Evaluation of therapy by professionals such as psychologists, speech therapists, occupational therapists, or qualified health experts
- Assessment required to identify the need for assistive technology
- Expert advice on managing the impact of disability through tailored exercise routines
- Consultation with a dietitian for personalized dietary plans
- Guidance on employment opportunities through counseling
All therapeutic services must be administered by certified professionals. The NDIS has also established maximum pricing for each category. Should you opt for a therapist who charges more than the NDIS-defined price, the difference in cost will need to be covered by you. These price limits are typically reevaluated annually.
What are the types of therapeutic supports?
Therapeutic supports generally fall into three categories that are part of the Capacity Building Supports budget. These supports are designed to aid you in skill development and achieving greater independence. The three categories are as follows:
- Improved daily living: The majority of therapeutic supports are funded within this category. It encompasses the assistance you receive from therapists to enhance your independence, boost confidence, engage in meaningful interactions, and actively participate in the community.
- Improved health and well-being: This category covers the support you receive from dietitians and personal trainers to enhance and manage your overall health.
- Improved relationships: This category provides funding for the cultivation of social skills and includes support for behavioral interventions.
Let us take some examples to understand how different supports can benefit you;
Exercise physiology
NDIS funds support for exercise physiologists to improve mobility. It can also help with the following:
- Improve coordination and dexterity
- Improve balance and fitness
- Improve mobility
- Increase endurance
- Improve sleep quality
- Work on emotional health to improve quality of life.
Occupational therapy
An occupational therapist can help you develop the following:
- Build functional skills
- Help with daily activities
Speech therapy
A speech therapist can assist you in the following areas:
- Assist with swallowing
- Help in communication
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy support can benefit you with the following:
- Motor development training
- Manage pain through therapy
- Assistive technology support assessment
- Balance and mobility assessments
Dietitian consultants
Consulting with a dietitian can help you with these things:
- Developing a diet plan to reach a healthy weight
- Develop mindful eating habits
- Advice for picky eating
How does it work?
While the process varies among individuals, it typically involves participants undergoing a consultation to identify their needs and aspirations. This consultation aids in comprehending the specific kind of support necessary for enhancing their lives and how it can be beneficial. This comprehensive process often spans multiple meetings. Based on the consultation, a tailored plan is formulated to help you make the most of your therapeutic support.
After this phase is completed and your funding is approved, you have the option to seek out proficient support providers. However, there’s also the potential scenario of not receiving funding for therapeutic support within your present plan. If this is the case, reaching out to your provider is advised to discuss the subsequent steps.
Conclusion
To get the best out of ndis therapeutic supports, you can get an NDIS support coordinator to help you out. They will work with you to understand your goals, connect you with providers, and coordinate your support. NDIS provides three levels of support coordination: support connection, support coordination, and specialist support coordination.
Your NDIS support coordinator will provide support in line with the levels above. In the case of specialist support coordination, a specialist support coordinator is assigned who will give you consistent assistance. You can get a registered or unregistered support coordinator since all of them are required to comply with the NDIS Code of Conduct.
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