FAQ’s

Absolutely. Supporting healthier bonds between you and your foster child or adopted child is what we’re passionate about. We exist to create happier homes and better connections in both traditional and unconventional family types. Whether it’s improving the connection between children and other children, or a child and their parents or guardians, we support people from all walks of life as they navigate the complexities of addressing trauma, emotion and sensory issues affecting a child’s behaviour.

At Sensory Health Matters, we believe early intervention leads to the most powerful transformations. The quicker we can identify and address concerning behaviour, the faster we can intervene and foster change.

While "dyspraxia" is a common term, it is not formally recognised; the correct diagnosis for children struggling with motor skills and planning is Developmental Coordination Disorder, or DCD. Parents can give their child's paediatrician a copy of our report to consider a diagnosis of DCD. Our report can provide valuable information, but the diagnosis must be made by a paediatrician.

At Sensory Health Matters, we have some beautifully supportive services that come alongside to support you, guide you and give you the confidence boost you need in the early months of motherhood. Our Video Interaction Guidance (VIG) is worth exploring for new parents.

Occupational therapists can provide information and evidence to assist diagnostic specialists, such as paediatricians and psychologists, make a formal diagnosis. Sensory reactivity differences are now recognised as part of the DSM-5 criteria. We also know that many Autistic individuals also experience praxis or motor planning difficulties. Our comprehensive sensory assessment services will provide you with the information you need. We use standardised assessments including the Sensory Processing Measure, or SPM-2 and the Evaluation in Ayres Sensory Integration, or EASI, a gold standard assessment in clinical practice to understand the sensory processing and integration needs of individuals. You can read more about the EASI here. 

Most paediatric occupational therapists work with children to help them develop the skills needed for daily activities and to participate fully in school, play, and self-care. They focus on improving fine motor skills, sensory processing, gross motor skills, visual motor skills like drawing and writing and executive functioning. Some OT’s also specialise in complex disability, physical disability or home modifications. At Sensory Health Matters, we do not specifically support skill development. We have a strong specialisation in strengthening parent-child connections through sensory and relational development, which provide a strong foundation for then seeking support from an OT who focusses on skill development. 

At Sensory Health Matters, we offer sensory assessments and services with a private fee. Nonetheless, for children with NDIS plans, we currently accept Plan Managed and Self-Managed clients. If you have private health insurance, some rebates may be offered and you will need to check this directly with your provider. Soon, your child will be able to access OT support using their Better Access to Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP). Eligible individuals may receive Medicare rebates for up to 10 sessions per calendar year, out of pocket costs will apply.