NDIS Archives - Rehabilitation Specialists

At The Rehabilitation Specialists, we are proud to introduce Emily Peelgrane, one of our most experienced Occupational Therapists, with nearly 25 years of diverse experience across Australia, the USA, the UK, and Costa Rica.

Expertise and Passion for Occupational Therapy

Emily has excelled in various roles throughout her career, including management, education, research, and clinical leadership. Her dedication to patient-centered, evidence-based services is evident in her work with individuals experiencing disabilities. With a focus on neurology, complex and chronic care, and interoception, she employs sensory strategies tailored to various health conditions and disabilities.

Commitment to Education and Innovation

As the Director of Clinical Services and Innovation, Emily is instrumental in developing innovative solutions to enhance clinical outcomes for clients. She is deeply committed to shaping the future of healthcare by mentoring university students and supporting the next generation of health professionals. Her contributions to the field have been recognized through nominations and awards for excellence in education and leadership.

Emily has also presented at prestigious events, including the Australian Pain Society Conference and the San Diego Pain Summit, showcasing her expertise and dedication to advancing occupational therapy practices.

Balancing Work and Life

When Emily isn’t busy at The Rehabilitation Specialists, she is often found navigating life as a dedicated mother of three. Her role as a part-time “Uber driver” for her kids allows her to indulge in her love for singing—an activity that brings her joy on the go! Emily also shares her home with a lovely Golden Retriever named Lily, who frequently visits the TRS office, bringing smiles to both clients and staff.

A Gratitude for Leadership

Emily Peelgrane’s commitment and expertise have significantly enriched our team. Her passion for high-quality occupational therapy services and her innovative spirit make The Rehabilitation Specialists a better place for both clients and staff. Thank you, Emily, for everything you do!

Over the past two years, Imogen, Tim, and Jessica have dedicated themselves to studying for their Masters of Occupational Therapy. After countless long days and nights, their hard work has paid off, and they are now proud graduates!

Meet Our Graduates

Imogen Andriolo: A Passion for Paediatric Therapy

Imogen completed her Bachelor of Health Science in 2022 at the University of Canberra. Following that, she pursued her Masters of Occupational Therapy at the same institution. This strong educational foundation has allowed her to excel in her role at The Rehabilitation Specialists (TRS).

During her studies and placements, Imogen gained valuable experience working on emotional regulation and executive functioning, developing a keen interest in paediatric therapy. Her commitment to her clients is evident as she strives to help them achieve their goals through effective therapy sessions.

Jessica Cheng: Empowering Individuals in Daily Living

Jessica holds a Bachelor of Social Science with Honors in Communication from Hong Kong Baptist University (2016) and a Master of Social Science in Social Work from The University of Hong Kong (2020). She later completed her Master of Occupational Therapy at the University of Canberra in 2024.

While studying, Jessica worked as an Out of School Hours Care Educator with Woden Community Service, gaining significant experience supporting children with developmental disabilities such as Global Developmental Delay (GDD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Her professional interests include paediatrics and mental health, and she is dedicated to empowering individuals to achieve their daily living goals.

Tim Chan: A Focus on Client Engagement

Tim moved to Australia to complete his Masters in Occupational Therapy, finishing in early 2024. His first placement was with a National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) service provider, where he led cooking and therapy groups. This experience equipped him with skills to enhance client engagement and tailor therapy sessions to meet individual goals.

In his final placement, Tim focused on workplace rehabilitation, conducting ergonomic assessments and ADL assessments. He is committed to continuous learning and is passionate about helping clients achieve their best outcomes through personalized therapy.

A Bright Future Ahead

Everyone at TRS is incredibly proud of Imogen, Tim, and Jessica’s achievements. We are excited to have them as part of our team and look forward to witnessing their growth as skilled occupational therapists. Their dedication and passion will undoubtedly make a positive impact on the lives of those they serve.

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Occupational therapists in Australia help people engage in meaningful activities—referred to as “occupations”—that contribute to overall well-being. This includes daily living skills, such as dressing and cooking, work-related tasks, and leisure activities. OT practitioners assess clients’ needs, develop personalised intervention plans, and provide therapeutic strategies to enhance abilities and promote independence.

Key Responsibilities of Occupational Therapists:

Assessment: First, they evaluate clients’ physical, emotional, and cognitive needs.
Intervention Planning: Next, they create tailored plans to achieve clients’ goals.
Skill Development: Additionally, they teach clients essential daily living and social skills.
Environmental Modifications: Lastly, they recommend changes to the home or workplace to improve accessibility.

What Is the Role of Occupational Therapy?

The role of occupational therapy is to support individuals in achieving their goals and maximising their potential, especially when faced with physical, emotional, or developmental challenges. Occupational therapists work collaboratively with clients to:

Identify barriers to participation in daily activities.
Develop strategies to overcome these barriers.
Recommend assistive devices or modifications to the environment.
Facilitate skill development in areas such as self-care, social interaction, and productivity.

By focusing on the whole person rather than just their condition, occupational therapy fosters autonomy and improves overall quality of life.

What Is Occupational Therapy Treatment For?

Occupational therapy treatment is beneficial for various conditions and populations, including:

Physical Disabilities: For instance, assisting with recovery from injuries or surgeries, managing chronic conditions, and regaining mobility.
Mental Health Issues: Supporting individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges is also crucial.
Developmental Disorders: Furthermore, helping children with autism, ADHD, or learning disabilities improve their social interactions and self-care skills.
Aging Population: Promoting healthy aging by addressing cognitive decline and encouraging independence in older adults is vital.

For more information on occupational therapy treatment options, check out our services page.

Is Occupational Therapy Covered by Medicare Australia?

Medicare does cover some occupational therapy services, particularly under the Chronic Disease Management (CDM) plan. Individuals with chronic conditions may be eligible for up to five allied health services, including occupational therapy, each calendar year. Therefore, it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider to understand specific coverage options.

Does NDIS Cover Occupational Therapy?

Yes, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) covers occupational therapy services for eligible participants. OT plays a crucial role in helping individuals with disabilities achieve their goals related to daily living, social participation, or employment. Occupational therapists work with NDIS participants to assess needs and tailor interventions accordingly.

Is OT or Physio Better?

Choosing between occupational therapy (OT) and physiotherapy (physio) depends on individual needs. While both professions aim to improve quality of life and functional abilities, they focus on different aspects:

Occupational Therapy: Focuses on enabling individuals to perform everyday activities and achieve personal goals, addressing cognitive, emotional, and social aspects.
Physiotherapy: Primarily concentrates on physical rehabilitation and movement, improving physical function and mobility.

In many cases, a combined approach utilising both OT and physio provides the most comprehensive care.

How Do I Become an Occupational Therapist in Sydney?

To become an occupational therapist in Sydney, follow these steps:

Complete a Relevant Degree: Enroll in a Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Therapy or an equivalent postgraduate program.
Gain Practical Experience: Most programs include supervised clinical placements for hands-on experience.
Register with the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia: After completing your degree, you must register to practice.
Consider Further Education: Ongoing professional development and specialization can enhance your career opportunities.

Get in Touch with Us!

At Rehabilitation Specialists, we offer comprehensive occupational therapy services in Sydney, Canberra, and throughout Australia, including online consultations. Our dedicated team is here to help you or your loved ones achieve independence and improve quality of life through tailored occupational therapy programs.

If you’re interested in our services or would like to make a referral, contact us today. Together, we can embark on a journey towards better health and well-being!

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Introducing Ange Reakes, an Accredited Exercise Physiologist with over 13 years of specialised experience since her graduation in 2011. With a robust background in managing musculoskeletal issues, relative energy deficiency syndrome, and complex medical histories, Ange is dedicated to providing informed and effective rehabilitation support to clients in the Canberra region.

As a Senior Exercise Physiologist, Ange not only delivers exceptional care but also mentors and guides her team. Her expertise in managing intricate physical and psychological claims ensures that she approaches each case with a holistic perspective, considering physical, psychological, biopsychosocial, and emotional factors impacting rehabilitation.

Ange has significant experience in high-performance sports rehabilitation, having worked with elite athletes to achieve outstanding results. Her passion lies in fostering overall well-being for everyone she collaborates with, building strong relationships with doctors and specialists in the process.

Services Offered by Ange

In the Canberra region, Ange provides a comprehensive range of services, including:

Case Management
Act Government/Comcare Support
WorkCover NSW and ACT Services
Life Insurance Rehabilitation
CTP (Compulsory Third Party) Support
Non-Compensation Rehabilitation
Catastrophic Injuries Management
Non-WCNSW Job Seeking Support
Lifetime Care & Support Services

Assessment Services

Ange also offers a variety of assessment services designed to meet your needs:

Initial Needs Assessments
Workplace Assessments
Vehicle Ergonomic Assessments
Ergonomic/Workstation Assessments
Transferable Skills Analysis

Why Choose Ange?

Known for her innovative approach and commitment to achieving positive outcomes, Ange is a respected health professional in the Canberra region. Her ability to think ‘outside the box’ sets her apart in the field of exercise physiology.

And here’s a fun fact: Ange is also a former cricket player for the Sydney Sixers in the WBBL!

If you’re seeking an Accredited Exercise Physiologist in the Canberra region who is dedicated to your rehabilitation and well-being, look no further than Ange. Contact us today to learn how she can support your journey to health.

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1. What is NDIS Capacity Building?

NDIS Capacity Building funding is designed to empower participants to enhance their skills and independence over time. It supports a range of personal development goals, from mastering daily living skills—like cooking and budgeting—to securing employment and improving health outcomes. The ultimate goal? Long-term growth and empowerment, enabling individuals to take control of their lives.

2. The Essence of Capacity Building for Disability

In the context of disability, Capacity Building focuses on enhancing skills, knowledge, and confidence. This might involve learning to use assistive technology, improving communication abilities, or working with therapists to boost social skills or physical health. The emphasis is on fostering sustainable capabilities that lead to independence and a higher quality of life, moving beyond short-term fixes to lasting empowerment.

3. Is Support Coordination Part of Capacity Building?

Absolutely! Support Coordination is a crucial component of Capacity Building. It guides NDIS participants in navigating available supports, managing services, and maximising their NDIS plan’s benefits. Support Coordinators empower individuals by building the skills necessary for independent plan management, connecting them with service providers, and ensuring a smooth implementation of their plans.

4. What Services are Included in Capacity Building?

Capacity Building encompasses various services aimed at enhancing different life aspects, including:

Improved Daily Living: Therapy and training to assist with everyday tasks like cooking and personal care.
Improved Living Arrangements: Help transitioning to independent living or modifying homes for better accessibility.
Increased Social and Community Participation: Programs that encourage engagement through social activities and group classes.
Improved Learning: Support for education and skill development.
Employment Support: Resources to help secure and maintain employment.
Health and Well-being: Programs focused on therapy, exercise, and dietary advice to enhance overall health.

5. Requirements for Accessing Capacity Building Funds

To access Capacity Building funds, participants must align their requests with their NDIS plan and personal goals. Funding is allocated based on:

Stated goals in the NDIS plan.
Evidence of need, often provided by healthcare professionals.
The determination of supports as reasonable and necessary according to NDIS guidelines.

Regularly reviewing your NDIS plan ensures that your capacity-building needs are adequately met and adjusted as needed.

6. Core Supports vs. Capacity Building in NDIS

Understanding the difference between Core Supports and Capacity Building is essential. Core Supports address immediate daily needs, providing assistance with personal care, household tasks, and community engagement. These funds are flexible and can be used across various categories.

Conversely, Capacity Building funding focuses on long-term skill development and independence. While Core Supports cater to immediate requirements, Capacity Building aims to reduce reliance on supports over time, with specific funding allocated for areas like Improved Daily Living and Support Coordination.

Final Thoughts: Empower Your Independence Through Capacity Building

NDIS Capacity Building is more than just funding—it’s a pathway to independence, equipping participants with vital life skills, education opportunities, and community engagement. From therapeutic interventions to employment support, our focus is always on fostering lasting independence.

At Rehabilitation Specialists, we are committed to helping NDIS participants in Canberra and Sydney and surrounding suburbs achieve their capacity-building aspirations. Ready to take the next step toward independence? Contact us today to learn more about our services or to make a referral. Let us help you unlock your potential and embrace a more independent life!

NDIS Capacity Building Services Sydney

NDIS Capacity Building Services

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Carlos Success Story with a Client’s Journey to Independence in the Kitchen.

For a number of us through, cooking is one of those activities that can be a struggle to execute.

Ever since November, Carlos has been seeing a client who has struggled in the kitchen. But with his help, this client has built their independence around the kitchen and recently independently cooked their first meal!

Having done this has built their confidence to try more recipes in the kitchen. But will always come back to their first and favorite meal they made, carbonara pasta!

Well done Carlos, your hard work and support has paid off! We are very grateful to have you as part of the TRS Team.