NDIS Archives - Rehabilitation Specialists

At The Rehabilitation Specialists, one of our favourite things is welcoming university students for their placements — and this time, we’ve hit the jackpot with two incredible Occupational Therapy (OT) students joining us!

For eight weeks, starting from March 24th, we’ve been lucky to have Victor and Liz on board, working alongside our NDIS OTs and gaining valuable hands-on experience.

Meet Victor!

Victor is passionate about learning and always brings a calm, friendly energy to the team. Outside of OT, he’s a huge basketball fan — and a big admirer of King LeBron James.

One of his favourite things to do? Walking his dog! In fact, if you ever want to see Victor light up or have a great conversation, just ask him about his dog — it’s guaranteed to make him smile.

Another fun fact: Victor is multilingual, speaking both Cantonese and Mandarin fluently!

Say Hello to Liz!

Liz is a creative soul with a love for dogs, reading, and all things arts and crafts. She doesn’t just stick to one type of craft either — Liz enjoys exploring it all, with a particular passion for crochet and using her spinning wheel.

Just like Victor, Liz is also a dog lover. Her wonderful service dog, Pixel, even joins her at the TRS office and comes along to OT appointments! Pixel has quickly become part of the TRS family too.

Making an Impact at TRS

Victor and Liz have shared that they’ve felt incredibly welcomed by the TRS team and have already learned so much from their placement so far. From seeing a wide range of clients to gaining new insights and experiences, their journey has been full of growth.

We’re so grateful to have Victor, Liz, and Pixel with us for these two months. Their enthusiasm, kindness, and fresh perspectives have made a real difference — and we can’t wait to see what the rest of their placement brings.

Welcome again to the TRS family — we’re so lucky to have you!

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How Can Employment Services Support You?

Our Employment Services aim to assist you in achieving your unique career objectives, no matter what they look like. Depending on your specific needs, our Employment Consultants can provide support in areas such as:

CV development and updates
Cover letter creation
Online job search assistance
Selection criteria responses
Job application support
Interview coaching and mock interviews
Basic computer skills training
Follow-up call coaching
Cold canvassing support
Disclosure coaching for injury, illness, or disability
General employment coaching

Meet our Employment consultant Megan!

Megan commenced at The Rehabilitation Specialists in August 2021 as one of our rehab admin assistants. Since commencing with The Rehabilitation Specialists, she has worked within the rehabilitation space and has grown her knowledge across multiple insurance schemes. Megan has now also moved into being an Employment Services Consultant, where she has found her niche being able to involve her coaching, mentoring, and wholistic approach in her services to help people find a job!

Megan works across both the workplace rehabilitation and NDIS space and in 2024 she completed her External Case Manager course. This allows her to act as a case manager, remotely based, to assist in organising employees’ return to work. Megan’s has strengths in organisation, prioritisation and time management, and her passion is to ensure that everyone around her is supported and enabled to be able to work towards their goals along their journey.

Megan is moving, but don’t worry, she isn’t leaving us!

After working in Canberra since August 2021, Megan has decided that she wants to get some fresh air and has moved down to the coast to see how life is over there. Even though Megan will no longer be working in our Canberra office every day, she will be keeping on top of her employment role and offering job seeking services in the Merimbula area as well as online!

One thing all of us are confident about is that even through Megan will no longer be working in the office with us day in and day out. She will be working to the best of her ability and will still be coming back to see us and her Canberra based clients regularly.

If you are in need of some support returning to work or if you are looking for a new job, reach out to us! We would love to hear from you!

We are thrilled to announce that The Rehabilitation Specialists (TRS) is featured in the latest Commonwealth Bank and Matildas campaign, a wonderful initiative designed to support small businesses – just like ours!

Recently, our inspiring Managing Director, Fiona Fonti, had the incredible opportunity to meet Cameron, a star from Married at First Sight, to discuss both the campaign and the growth of TRS. This exciting partnership has opened many doors, and we are proud to share that TRS will be featured on Commonwealth Bank billboards throughout Sydney and mentioned in radio campaigns across New South Wales!

The Story Behind The Rehabilitation Specialists

The Rehabilitation Specialists (TRS) began its journey on June 18, 2012, when Fiona Fonti recognized a growing demand for boutique, workplace rehabilitation services. Motivated by a desire to provide personalized and effective rehabilitation solutions, Fiona founded TRS to cater to businesses and individuals in need of expert rehabilitation and support.

TRS Expansion Milestones

After a year of offering services from clients’ homes, The Rehabilitation Specialists officially opened its first office in Canberra on January 1, 2013. This move provided a dedicated space for innovation, collaboration, and enhanced service to our clients. Our growth continued, and in 2015, we relocated to a larger office in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) to accommodate our expanding team and client base.

In 2018, TRS reached a significant milestone when we became a registered National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provider in the ACT, enabling us to extend our services to those with disabilities in the region.

The year 2020 marked another important chapter as we opened our Sydney office, expanding our services to better serve the Sydney region. Most recently, in 2025, we relocated to a larger office space right in the heart of Sydney, providing ample room for continued growth and a commitment to offering the best in workplace rehabilitation services.

Join Us on Our Exciting Journey!

Being part of the Commonwealth Bank and Matildas campaign is an exciting milestone for us. Keep an eye out for The Rehabilitation Specialists on billboards across Sydney and listen for our mention in radio campaigns throughout New South Wales!

As a growing business, we’re constantly moving forward and expanding our reach. We are excited about the future and the positive impact we continue to make in the workplace rehabilitation industry.

2024 was a year filled with growth, community, and achievement at The Rehabilitation Specialists. We’re thrilled to share a look back at the highlights and milestones that shaped our year.

January: A Golden Start
The year kicked off with a bang as we proudly sponsored the 2024 Australian Deaf Games. Our very own Fi and Nick brought home gold in soccer, a testament to their dedication and athleticism.

February: Love and Laughter
February was a month of love and appreciation. We celebrated Valentine’s Day by spreading kindness and gratitude among our team and clients.

March: A Much-Needed Break
After a busy start to the year, we took some time to recharge and reconnect at a team outing to the Dock in Kingston. It was a perfect opportunity to enjoy good food, great company, and lasting memories.

May: A Warm Welcome
We were delighted to welcome Winnie, a long-time client of Emma’s, to one of Ben’s sessions. It was inspiring to witness the impact of our work and how it can empower individuals to achieve their goals.

July: A Night of Celebration and New Beginnings
Our Rehab Team dressed to impress at the Insurance Ball, a night of glamour and networking. We also welcomed new team members to our growing Sydney office, excited to contribute their skills and passion.

August: Deaf Festival and Community Connection
We were proud to participate in the Deaf Festival, showcasing our skills and connecting with the Deaf community. Meeting incredible individuals like Emma Memma was a highlight of the month.

October: Celebrating Future Healthcare Heroes
October was a month of celebration as we watched our talented students, Imogen, Tim, and Jessica, graduate as Occupational Therapists. Their dedication and hard work are an inspiration to us all.

September and November: Giving Back and Supporting a Cause
In September, our EP student, Dillion, shared his expertise by leading a workout session to improve running performance. We’re excited to have him join our team as a fully qualified EP next year.
November saw us embrace the spirit of Movember, sporting fake mustaches to raise awareness for men’s health. We also had the privilege of hosting Bjarne from Southside Physio, who shared insights into the GLA:BACK program.

December: A Festive Finale
We concluded 2024 with our annual Christmas party, a white masquerade ball filled with fun, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As we reflect on 2024, we’re filled with gratitude for the opportunities and experiences we’ve had. We’re excited to carry this momentum into 2025 and continue making a positive impact on our clients and community.

Will you take the leap and pursue your dreams in 2025? We can’t wait to see what the future holds!

At Rehabilitation Specialists, we understand that transitioning to a new job or career path can be a challenging process—especially when you’re facing physical or psychological limitations. Whether you’re managing long-term health conditions, experiencing redundancy, or simply seeking a change in direction, our Job Seeking Services are designed to provide comprehensive, personalised support that empowers you to succeed.

We also offer specialised assistance for NDIS clients, ensuring a smooth and effective job search experience that’s tailored to your individual needs. Here’s how our expert team, led by Employment Services Consultants Megan and Emma, can help you unlock your full career potential:

Why Choose Our Job Seeking Services?

1. Personalised Job Matching for Better Results

Your career journey is unique, and so are your skills, experiences, and aspirations. That’s why we begin by getting to know you. We take the time to understand your strengths, career goals, and the types of roles you’re interested in. Using this insight, we match you with potential employers who are seeking candidates with your qualifications, significantly increasing your chances of landing a role that truly fits.

2. Building Meaningful Employer Relationships

Our commitment extends beyond simply placing you in a job. We actively build and nurture strong relationships with employers and key industry stakeholders, giving you access to a wider network of job opportunities. These connections are invaluable, helping you secure a position that aligns with both your skills and career aspirations.

3. Expert Vocational Counselling

Choosing the right career path can feel overwhelming—particularly when you’re facing personal challenges. Our experienced vocational counsellors work closely with you to explore various career options, assess your suitability for different roles, and provide clear, objective advice. We focus on your strengths and potential to guide you towards a fulfilling career that aligns with your long-term goals.

4. A Holistic Approach to Career Transitions

Career transitions are about more than just finding a new job—they’re about creating a balance between work, well-being, and personal goals. Our holistic approach considers your overall health, lifestyle, and ambitions to ensure that your new job isn’t just a career move, but a step towards a better quality of life. We work with you to identify and overcome any barriers, equipping you with strategies and support to achieve lasting success in your chosen role.

5. Specialised Support for NDIS Clients

For clients with NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) plans, we offer tailored job-seeking services that accommodate your individual needs. We understand the complexities of the NDIS framework and work closely with NDIS support coordinators to create job opportunities that align with your capabilities and goals. Whether you’re looking for part-time, full-time, or flexible roles, we ensure that your job search respects and enhances your NDIS plan, promoting a smooth and successful transition into the workforce.

6. Ongoing Support and Guidance

The journey doesn’t end once you’ve secured a job. We believe in providing continuous support, even after you’ve started your new role. Whether you need advice, encouragement, or practical assistance as you settle into your position, our team is here to help. We are committed to ensuring your long-term success and job satisfaction.

Ready to Start Your Career Transition?

Whether you’re dealing with permanent physical or psychological restrictions, navigating a career change, or seeking NDIS-specific job-seeking assistance, our Job Seeking Services are designed with your needs in mind. We’re here to support you every step of the way—from exploring new opportunities to thriving in your new role.

Contact Rehabilitation Specialists today to learn more about how we can help you unlock your career potential. Let us help you build the future you deserve.

Contact Us

For more information or to schedule a consultation, Get in touch with our team of expert job-seeking consultants today. Your future starts here.

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This week has been an exciting one for The Rehabilitation Specialists (TRS). On Monday, 11 November, our Founder and Managing Director, Fiona, was featured on the Capital Women show on 2XXfm!

During this insightful radio interview, Fiona shared the core services of TRS and highlighted the diverse ways our expert team supports individuals on their rehabilitation journeys. Fiona also discussed the significant growth and changes we’ve experienced over the past few years, including the expansion of our Sydney team and an upcoming move to a new office space in January.

Since founding TRS 12 years ago, Fiona has led a dedicated team committed to delivering top-quality rehabilitation services to help people achieve the best possible outcomes. Through hard work, innovation, and a deep passion for improving lives, TRS has become a trusted name in the industry.

While Fiona’s journey with TRS has been incredibly busy, she still finds time to enjoy personal activities like walking, playing cricket, and spending quality time with her family.

We are so proud of Fiona’s accomplishments and are thrilled to be part of the TRS family as we continue to grow and serve our community.

Click the link below to listen to Fiona’s full radio interview on Capital Women and learn more about the exciting developments at The Rehabilitation Specialists.

Click the link to have a listen!

Have you ever wanted a reason to grow a mustache? Now is your chance! With November kicking off today, we invite you to grow a mustache for Movember—a movement dedicated to improving men’s health.

Why Movember Matters

Men’s health issues, including mental health challenges and prostate cancer, are often overlooked. Movember is working to change that by funding groundbreaking projects and raising awareness across the globe. You can find more information about their initiatives on the Movember Foundation website. Join the conversation and be part of a movement that truly matters.

Join the Challenge: Compete for Men’s Health

Would you like to compete in prestigious marathons, races, and epic hikes—all while making a significant impact on men’s health? Movember offers several exciting events where your participation can help change lives. Here are some incredible opportunities:

1. Point to Pinnacle (November 17)

Prepare for a challenge like no other as you ascend kunanyi/Mount Wellington in Hobart. This event is known as the world’s toughest road half-marathon, and it’s a fantastic way to push your limits while supporting men’s health.

2. Ride The Dirty Warrny (November 9)

If cycling is more your speed, get ready for an adventure on gravel! The Dirty Warrny is touted as “the truest test of performance, machine, and sense of adventure.” This endurance race will take you through the breathtaking Victorian countryside, all while contributing to a worthy cause.

3. Kokoda Trek (April 14-25, 2025)

Honor the ANZAC legacy on the historic Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea. This trek not only offers stunning views and a journey through lush jungles but also provides an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on men’s health.

4. Everest Base Camp Trek (May 1-16, 2025)

Is Everest on your bucket list? This trek to Everest Base Camp combines adventure with a purpose. Experience the majestic Himalayan landscape while helping to change the face of men’s health.

Can’t Join the Events? Grow a Moustache!

If racing or trekking isn’t quite your style, you can still make a difference. Simply grow a fantastic moustache and help spread awareness for men’s health. Every bit of effort counts! Check out our tips on how to grow and style your mustache here.

Get Involved Today!

This Movember, whether you’re sporting a mustache, hiking a trail, or cycling through the countryside, you have the power to make a difference. Let’s change the narrative around men’s health together. Join us in this important movement and help raise awareness for a cause that affects us all.

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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