At Sense Therapies, we understand that you may have questions about how our programs work and how we can best support your child's needs. We’ve compiled the following frequently asked questions to help you understand our inclusive, movement-based approach and what to expect when joining the Sense community.
If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team directly.
What happens if I need to cancel?
We value the commitment to therapy and the time allocated by our clinicians. Our notice periods depend on the type of service:
Individual Sessions: We require two (2) clear business days.
Short-notice cancellations incur the full (100%) session fee.
School Term Groups: We require 14 full business days' notice prior to the commencement of the term. Failure to provide this will incur a two-week cancellation fee.
3-4 Day Holiday Camps: We require seven (7) Â full clear business days' notice prior to the start date.
Single Day Holiday Camps: We require two (2)Â full clear business days' notice.
What is an Initial session?
An initial session is a parent and carer only session and our chance to get to know your child and your family unit. The child is not present for this session, as it is a dedicated space to discuss your child’s developmental history, current challenges, and your hopes for therapy. We focus on building rapport and understanding the "why" behind any difficulties so we can create a tailored plan together.
Does my child come to the Initial session?
No, the initial session is designed for parents and carers only. This allows us to have an open and in-depth conversation about your child's needs and history in a focused environment. Following this session, we will schedule appointments where your child will be involved to begin their therapy journey.
What can I expect in the Initial appointment?
Expect a warm, safe environment where you are heard. We will gather information through conversation and clinical discussion. By the end of the session, we aim to have clear goals and a collaborative plan for the journey ahead.
What is Educational Therapy?
How long is the waitlist?
Wait times vary depending on the service and your flexibility with day/time. Please note that appointments during school hours are often more readily available than those outside of school hours. The quickest way to join our community is to complete our Online Intake Form. This places you on our list and ensures we have all the information ready the moment a spot opens up.
Can the OT Therapist diagnose my Child for ADHD, Autism etc?
Our team are highly experienced in identifying neurodivergent traits and the functional impact they have on daily life. We offer a range of comprehensive assessments that use neuro-affirming, evidence-based tools to inform the diagnostic process. While we don't provide a medical diagnosis, these assessments are an important part of the multidisciplinary approach, often involving our team and your Paediatrician.
What do the assessments involve?
Our assessments are strengths-based and often play-led. We look at sensory processing, motor skills, emotional regulation, and social participation. We use a "bottom-up" approach, looking at the underlying neurobiology (like the Polyvagal Theory and Sensory Integration) to understand how your child perceives their world.
What is a Psychometric Assessment? How long do they take?
These assessments look at cognitive and academic profiles (like IQ or learning styles). They are thorough and usually involve several hours across one or two sessions, followed by a detailed report to help schools and families support the child's unique learning needs.
If I don't have NDIS funding, can I still seek services?
Absolutely! We welcome self-funded families and those using Private Health insurance. We believe everyone should have access to supportive therapy.
Please note: We are not licensed/ approved for Agency Managed (NDIS Managed Plans).
How do you take payments? (Pay of the day via EFTPOS, Direct Debit (STRIPE) or pay via the email receipt.
Payment on the day of service provision for in-clinic appointments is required and applies to:Â
NDIS Self ManagedÂ
All variations of Self Funded clients - including CDMP/Medicare related health plans, clients intending to claim with their health funds
If programs/ sessions are facilitated offsite payment should be paid via invoice online.
Other payment options to in-clinic payment on the day or payment via invoice is our Direct Debit/STRIPE system. Please discuss with Reception if you would like to set this up.
Do you offer community appointments?
Yes! We love seeing children where they are most comfortable. We offer sessions in the clinic, at home, or within community settings such as schools, daycares, pre-schools, parks, or local pools to help skills generalise to real-life situations.
What support do you have available for daycares, pre-schools, primary schools and high schools?
Through our Sense in Schools program, we provide professional learning, on-site workshops, and classroom coaching. We help educators understand the "why" behind behaviour to create calmer, more inclusive classrooms across the Illawarra region.
