Understanding PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance)

Support for Autism and ADHD Brisbane Melbourne and Gold Coast

Occupational therapy (OT) for children supports the everyday skills that help kids learn, play, connect, and grow. At Neurodiverse Playhouse, our child-led therapy approach is strengths-based and designed to feel like play — not a clinical appointment.

We provide neurodiversity-affirming therapy for children with autism, ADHD, developmental differences, sensory processing challenges, and more. Every session is co-created with your child, honouring who they are while offering support for autism and ADHD.

Hand blowing bubbles in a sunny park with colorful cones and hoops. Neurodiverse Playhouse

Woman and young girl playing with wooden toys at a table. Neurodiverse Playhouse

Occupational therapy

Why Fit In When You Were Born to Stand Out? — Dr. Seuss

What Does Our Occupational Therapy Support?

Sensory processing

Regulating responses to touch, sound, movement, and environment is crucial in child-led therapy, especially in a neurodiversity-affirming therapy approach that provides effective support for autism and ADHD.

Fine and gross motor skills

Handwriting, cutting, balance, and coordination are essential skills that can be nurtured through child-led therapy. This approach not only respects each child's unique pace but also aligns with neurodiversity-affirming therapy, providing effective support for autism and ADHD.

Emotional regulation

Recognising and managing feelings in everyday situations is crucial, especially in child-led therapy and neurodiversity-affirming therapy, which provide essential support for autism and ADHD.

Executive functioning

Planning, organising, task initiation, and focus are essential components in child-led therapy and neurodiversity-affirming therapy, providing effective support for autism and ADHD.

Self-care and daily living skills

Dressing, eating, and daily routines can greatly benefit from child-led therapy, particularly in the context of neurodiversity-affirming therapy, which offers essential support for autism and ADHD.

School Readiness

Supporting kindergarten and school transitions through child-led therapy, fostering learning readiness, and enhancing classroom participation with a focus on neurodiversity-affirming therapy for individuals with autism and ADHD.

Our Approach: Play-Based, Neuroaffirming OT

A joyful little girl in a floral dress poses happily against a yellow background. Neurodiverse Playhouse

Frequently Asked Questions - Occupational Therapy

Please reach us at letsplay@neurodiverseplayhouse.com.au if you cannot find an answer to your question.

Does my child need a diagnosis to access OT at Neurodiverse Playhouse?

No. We welcome all children and young people aged 2–25. No formal diagnosis is required to enrol.

What conditions does your OT team support?

We support children with autism, ADHD, PDA, developmental delays, sensory processing differences, hypermobility, and more.

How long does occupational therapy take to show results?

Most families notice meaningful improvements in gross and fine motor skills, emotional regulation, coordination, and focus within 3–6 months of regular sessions.

Can OT sessions be done outdoors?

Yes! We offer both indoor and outdoor therapy options at our Brisbane and Gold Coast locations.

Does Medicare cover OT?

Yes! OT at Neurodiverse Playhouse may be covered under a Medicare Chronic Disease Management (CDM) plan (previously called an Enhanced Primary Care plan). With a referral from your GP, you may be eligible for up to 5 allied health sessions per calendar year with a Medicare rebate rate to cover part of the fee. Speak to your GP about whether a CDM plan is right for your child.

Please note there is an out of pocket fee.

Does Private Health Insurance Cover OT?

Many private health funds cover OT under extras cover. The amount rebated depends on your specific policy and fund. We recommend checking directly with your health insurer before your first session. Our team is happy to provide receipts and invoices to support your claim.

Brisbane, Melbourne, Gold Coast

Occupational Therapy for Neurodiverse Children

Support for Autism and ADHD Brisbane Melbourne and Gold Coast

Occupational therapy

Why Fit In When You Were Born to Stand Out? — Dr. Seuss