Occupational therapy: what to ask when choosing a provider

Occupational therapists may support people to participate in everyday activities at home, work, study or in the community. The service is shaped by the person’s goals and the practitioner’s scope. Care4AU does not assess clinical need or recommend a particular therapist; use an initial conversation to understand fit, availability and cost.

Clarify the service you are looking for

Explain the everyday activity or goal the person wants help with, such as routines, functional skills, equipment options, home access or participation. Ask what an assessment or therapy process may involve, where appointments can take place and whether a written report is included. A qualified clinician should explain the purpose and limits of their recommendations.

Check credentials and experience

Ask about the practitioner who will deliver the service, their relevant registration and experience, supervision arrangements where applicable, and how clinical records are handled. For occupational therapists, check current registration through the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency’s public register. Registration is an important check but does not guarantee service suitability or outcomes.

Discuss access, cost and logistics

• Are appointments available in the person’s suburb or by telehealth if suitable?
• What is the wait time and expected session length?
• What are the assessment, report, travel and cancellation charges?
• Will the provider communicate with family or other professionals, and what consent is needed?
• How will goals and progress be reviewed?

Funding and reports

Funding rules depend on the participant’s circumstances, plan and support type. Ask the provider for a written quote and check the proposed service with the plan manager, NDIA or relevant program before booking. A provider quote or report does not itself guarantee funding approval.

Use our provider questions checklist, NDIS comparison guide and free support request form. Check practitioner registration at Ahpra’s public register.