Arise Kids OT

Get to know Arise Kids OT

From Arise Kids OT's website.

• Our approach

  At Arise Kids OT, therapy is tailored to each child's unique strengths, interests, and real-life goals using a neuroaffirming, strengths-based approach grounded in evidence-based practice. Sessions take place in everyday environments—at home, school, daycare, or online—wherever works best for your family. The team partners with children and families to build confidence, independence, and the skills needed for meaningful participation in daily life. Support covers areas like motor skills, sensory regulation, emotional regulation, social skills, and self-care, all designed around what matters most for your child's independence and development.

• Working with families

  Arise Kids OT prioritises partnership with families, working closely with parents and carers to understand their child's goals and everyday needs. The team provides helpful tools, activities, and suggestions tailored to your child's goals and daily routines to support progress between sessions, actively involving families in their child's development and success. Written progress reports and formal documentation are offered to support NDIS plans, medical referrals, or school planning, keeping you informed of your child's development and next steps. The service also supports families in understanding different funding pathways and helps guide you through NDIS reviews, Medicare eligibility, and other support options available.

• Meet the team

  Donna Varghese is the Senior Occupational Therapist at Arise Kids OT, bringing over 15 years of experience in paediatric occupational therapy with a specialisation in supporting neurodivergent children in their early years. Her career has spanned India, Dubai, Canberra, and Sydney, and since 2018 she has focused solely on paediatric OT, building a practice that is holistic, neuroaffirming, and family-centred. Donna is trained in Keyword Sign to support connection and communication both in and outside of therapy. She is a registered member of the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and Occupational Therapy Australia (OTA), and works closely with parents, educators, and other professionals to create goal-focused therapy plans.

• Your first visit

  During the first appointment, Arise Kids OT conducts both standardised and non-standardised assessments to understand your child's strengths and areas needing support. These initial assessments provide insights that help develop a personalised therapy plan with clear, achievable goals tailored to your child. The assessment process is designed to gather information about your child in real-life settings, ensuring the plan reflects their everyday needs. Following the initial assessment, the team works with you to establish goals and begin individualised therapy delivered using evidence-based and client-centred practices.