Early Start Australia - Fannie Bay

Assessment and treatment of communication difficulties including speech sounds, language development, stuttering, voice, and feeding and swallowing. Speech pathologists work with children and adults to help them communicate clearly and confidently.

A therapy that helps children and adults develop the everyday skills needed for daily life — from dressing, writing and play to sensory processing and school participation. Occupational therapists assess what is getting in the way and design practical strategies to build independence and confidence.

A multi-disciplinary evaluation that determines whether a child or adult meets the criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). It usually involves observation, standardised assessments and parent or teacher interviews, resulting in a diagnostic report that opens access to therapy and NDIS supports.

A structured evaluation by a psychologist or psychiatrist to determine whether ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is present. It typically includes questionnaires, clinical interviews, rating scales and sometimes cognitive testing, and results in recommendations for support and treatment.

An evaluation of how a person processes sensory information — such as touch, sound, movement and taste — and how this affects their behaviour and daily functioning. Carried out by an occupational therapist, the results guide strategies to help the individual feel regulated and comfortable in their environment.

A standardised assessment of thinking, learning and memory abilities administered by a psychologist. Results identify a person's cognitive profile, highlight strengths and areas of difficulty, and inform recommendations for school support, therapy and NDIS access.

Assessment and therapy targeting the development of physical movement skills — gross motor skills (running, jumping, balance) and fine motor skills (handwriting, cutting, fastening). Delivered by occupational therapists or physiotherapists to help children meet developmental milestones.

An evidence-based early intervention program for young autistic children (typically aged 12 months to 5 years) that uses play-based, relationship-focused strategies to build communication, social and learning skills during everyday routines.

Programs and assessments that prepare children for the transition to school by building the social, emotional, language and self-care skills needed to participate fully in a classroom environment. Often delivered by early childhood educators, occupational therapists and speech pathologists.

Therapy and group programs that teach children and young people the skills needed to interact effectively with others — such as turn-taking, reading social cues, making conversation and managing conflict. Often delivered in small groups to allow real-life practice with peers.

Support for individuals who have difficulty communicating verbally, using tools such as picture boards, speech-generating devices and apps. AAC therapists assess communication needs and teach both the individual and their support network to use these systems effectively.

Interventions designed to achieve functional outcomes that support the child with what they want and need to do for healthy development, participation and independence.

Support delivered by trained Allied Health Assistants under the supervision of a registered therapist. Assistants help implement therapy programs, practise skills with clients and provide increased frequency of support, making therapy more accessible and consistent.