Flip OT

Get to know Flip OT

From Flip OT's website.

• Our approach

  Flip OT uses evidence-based practice tailored to each child's individual needs, with a focus on building functional skills for everyday participation at home, school and in the community. Sessions are delivered either at your child's home or educational setting, with therapy goals developed collaboratively with your family. The service specialises in movement disorders including cerebral palsy and developmental coordination disorder, and uses the Cognitive Orientation to Occupational Performance (CO-OP) Approach. Therapy addresses life skills such as dressing, toileting, handwriting and meal preparation, with assistive technology prescribed when needed. Therapists work closely with school staff and other allied health professionals to help skills transfer across different settings, and home programs are provided to boost therapy outcomes between sessions.

• Working with families

  Family is central to Flip OT's approach, with your child and family included in the goal-setting and therapy planning process from the start. Your family's strengths are actively recognised and built upon throughout therapy, rather than focusing only on difficulties. The therapist collaborates closely with school staff, other allied health professionals, carers and support workers to ensure skills learnt in therapy are reinforced across different settings. Home programs are provided to extend learning and boost therapy outcomes, and the therapist works with you to integrate therapeutic strategies into your family's daily routines.

• Meet the team

  Nicola Johanson is the occupational therapist at Flip OT, holding a bachelor's degree in occupational therapy with over 10 years of experience working with children in both special schools and private practice settings. She has particular expertise in movement disorders including cerebral palsy and developmental coordination disorder, and is trained in the Cognitive Orientation to Occupational Performance (CO-OP) Approach. Nicola is committed to using evidence-based practice and is passionate about supporting children with disabilities to participate meaningfully in their communities. As a mother of three young children, she understands the practical challenges families face in integrating therapy into daily life and routines.

• Your first visit

  At the first appointment, an occupational therapy assessment provides a comprehensive overview of your child's development through both standardised and non-standardised assessment of motor skills, handwriting skills and functional capacity. The assessment gathers detailed information about your child's abilities and support needs to guide therapy planning. This assessment and accompanying report can also be used to support NDIS applications if needed. The therapist will work with you to understand your family's strengths and priorities, which form the basis for setting meaningful therapy goals together.