Therapy Supports Explained

Therapy and allied health supports can help you build skills, stay healthy and take part in daily life. This guide explains how they work in your NDIS plan, what “evidence-based” means, and how Providers are registered.

Allied Health and Therapy Under the NDIS

Allied health includes occupational therapists, physiotherapists, speech pathologists, psychologists, dietitians and other professionals. Under the NDIS, therapy is funded when it is reasonable and necessary to help you pursue your goals, increase your independence or participate in the community.

Allied Health Registration

NDIS Providers of therapy and allied health can be registered or unregistered. Registered Providers have been assessed by the NDIS Commission (or equivalent) against the NDIS Practice Standards. You can use either registered or unregistered Providers depending on how your plan is managed: plan-managed and self-managed Participants can choose unregistered Providers; NDIA-managed Participants must use registered Providers for those supports.

What to check when choosing a therapist

They are qualified and hold professional registration (e.g. AHPRA) where required
They understand the NDIS and can link therapy to your plan goals
They work in a way that suits you (location, frequency, communication)
They can provide reports and evidence for your plan reviews

Evidence-Based Practice

“Evidence-based practice” means the therapist uses approaches that are supported by research and professional guidelines. The NDIS expects that funded therapy is effective and appropriate for your situation. Your therapist should be able to explain why they are using a particular approach and how it relates to your goals.

Good therapy is also person-centred: it focuses on what you want to achieve and fits with your life, culture and preferences.

Common Therapy Types

Occupational therapy (OT) — daily living skills, equipment, home and routine
Physiotherapy — movement, strength, pain and mobility
Speech pathology — communication, swallowing and language
Psychology — mental health, behaviour and wellbeing
Dietetics — nutrition and eating related to your disability

What You Need for Therapy in Your Plan

Capacity Building — Improved Daily Living (or similar) budget for therapy
A clear link between the therapy and your plan goals
Reports from your therapist when the NDIA or your plan manager ask for them

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I see more than one type of therapist?

Yes. If your plan includes funding for improved daily living or related capacity building, you can use it for different allied health professionals when each is reasonable and necessary for your goals. Your support coordinator or planner can help you understand how to split the budget.

What if my therapist isn’t NDIS registered?

If you are plan-managed or self-managed, you can use unregistered Providers. They still need to be qualified and to give you invoices and documentation that meet NDIS requirements so you or your plan manager can claim from your plan.

How do I get therapy included in my next plan?

At your planning meeting, explain your goals and how therapy helps (or would help). Reports from your current or past therapists that describe your needs and recommended therapy are very helpful. The NDIA uses this to decide if therapy is reasonable and necessary.

Need personalised help?

The FWBS team can help you understand therapy in your plan and connect you with allied health supports. Get in touch for a friendly chat.

Contact FWBS