Is Newcastle Paediatric Occupational Therapy a registered NDIS provider?

Newcastle Paediatric Occupational Therapy is not currently listed as a registered NDIS provider on the NDIS Commission register. They may still support plan-managed or self-managed NDIS participants — contact them to confirm.

What services does Newcastle Paediatric Occupational Therapy provide?

Newcastle Paediatric Occupational Therapy provides Occupational Therapy and Early Intervention.

Which areas does Newcastle Paediatric Occupational Therapy cover?

Newcastle Paediatric Occupational Therapy is based in Belmont North, NSW.

How do I connect with Newcastle Paediatric Occupational Therapy?

You can call +61 2 4940 6507 and visit their website, or send an enquiry through EarlyBloom — it goes straight to the provider and is always free for families.

What ages does Newcastle Paediatric Occupational Therapy work with?

Children and adolescents from infancy through to 18 years of age.

What does a paediatric OT actually help with?

Common areas include handwriting and fine-motor skills, sensory sensitivities, daily routines (dressing, eating, sleep), coordination, and self-regulation.

Do we need a referral?

Not to see an OT privately. A GP referral and care plan are required only to access Medicare rebates or certain funded pathways.

Can OT be funded by the NDIS?

Yes, typically under Capacity Building / Improved Daily Living when it aligns with your child's plan goals.

How is OT different from physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy focuses on gross-motor movement and physical function; OT focuses on participation in everyday tasks, including fine-motor, sensory, and self-care skills.

Newcastle Paediatric Occupational Therapy · Occupational The…

Our approach

Sessions use engaging, child-centred activities designed to develop motor, sensory, and self-care skills in a fun and stimulating environment. Treatment strategies are tailored to help children overcome barriers to learning and participation, with focus on essential developmental milestones. The practice emphasises a collaborative, family-centred approach that works holistically with children and their healthcare team. Early intervention is prioritised as the cornerstone of achieving positive outcomes. A welcoming and inclusive environment is carefully designed to inspire confidence and support each child's overall well-being.

Working with families

Parents and caregivers are central to every child's developmental journey and receive practical strategies and tools to support their child's progress at home. Communication includes tailored guidance on managing sensory needs, daily routines, fostering independence, and behaviour regulation that can be integrated into everyday family life. The practice actively engages with parents and caregivers to create strategies that work seamlessly in daily routines, and also offers caregiver education programs to equip families with knowledge to assist their child. Collaboration forms the foundation of the work, with ongoing support to help families feel empowered and equipped to nurture their child's growth.

Meet the team

Melanie Ward, the registered occupational therapist and founder, holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Occupational Therapy with extensive further education and experience. She has been registered with the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia since 2012 and is especially skilled in detecting muscle tone disorders, treating very young infants with developmental delays, and working with children with joint hypermobility syndromes, developmental coordination disorder, cerebral palsy, and motor dyspraxia. She works holistically as part of each child's broader treatment team, maintaining close collaborations with paediatric podiatrists, psychologists, physiotherapists, speech pathologists, and GPs.

Your first visit

An initial appointment includes a comprehensive assessment using standardised tools, observations, and insights to evaluate your child's development and identify strengths and challenges. The therapist will assess areas such as motor skills, sensory processing, and cognitive abilities relevant to your child's needs. Based on findings, personalised strategies and a tailored treatment plan are created to address identified issues. The assessment process helps identify the specific problem your child is experiencing and forms the foundation for ongoing therapy sessions.

Newcastle Paediatric Occupational Therapy

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