Early Start Australia - Hawthorn

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.

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.

Assessment and therapy provided by a registered psychologist to support mental health, emotional wellbeing and behaviour. Psychologists work across the lifespan — helping children, adolescents and adults understand and manage challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma and learning differences.

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.

Comprehensive assessments to guide personalised therapy plans and support a formal ADHD diagnosis.

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.

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.

A comprehensive assessment — typically conducted by an occupational therapist or allied health professional — that evaluates how a person's disability or health condition affects their ability to carry out daily tasks. The report is used to determine NDIS funding needs and plan appropriate supports.

Therapy delivered to small groups of children or adults with similar goals, allowing participants to practise skills, build connections and learn from shared experiences. Groups are facilitated by a qualified therapist and can cover areas such as social skills, emotional regulation or anxiety management.

Support for early learning centres and kindergartens with program development, educator professional development, and kinder visits.

Therapy, assessment and consultation delivered remotely via video call, allowing families to access support from home without the need to travel. Telehealth sessions cover most services including psychology, speech pathology, occupational therapy and counselling.

Therapy or support delivered in the client's home or community setting rather than in a clinic. This approach allows therapists to work within the real environment where skills need to be applied, which can lead to more practical, lasting outcomes.