Unify Connections OT

Get to know Unify Connections OT

From Unify Connections OT's website.

• Our approach

  At Unify Connections OT, the neuro-affirming approach combines occupational therapy with practical, personalised strategies tailored to each family's everyday routines. Sessions focus on building skills in self-regulation, social confidence, motor abilities, cognitive development, and independence across self-care, school, and friendships. The therapist uses evidence-based methods including coaching, solution-focused consultation, and interventions grounded in areas like interoception awareness, executive functioning, motor skill development, and trauma-informed care. Parents are equipped with tools and understanding to support their child meaningfully and sustainably, with the goal of reducing the need for ongoing therapy over time. Sessions are available online via telehealth or face-to-face in home, school, or community settings depending on location and availability.

• Working with families

  Parents are central to the therapy model, collaborating with the therapist through consultations to examine their child's strengths, needs, and daily challenges from a new perspective. Together, you develop practical, individualised strategies that fit into everyday routines to support self-regulation, social confidence, and participation in life activities. The therapist works closely with you using a coaching approach centred on daily tasks, routines, and social interactions, helping you build understanding and skills that foster positive outcomes. The therapist also collaborates with other allied health providers, teachers, and support staff across different environments to ensure consistent, coordinated support. This partnership-based approach equips parents with the tools and knowledge to support their child meaningfully and sustainably over time.

• Meet the team

  Linda Berka is the occupational therapist and director at Unify Connections OT, holding a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy from Curtin University (graduating 2018) and bringing over a decade of experience supporting neurodiverse children and adults since 2011. She has completed extensive professional training including executive functioning skills coaching, interoception awareness, developmental coordination disorder assessment and intervention, rhythmic movement and reflex integration, social skills development, trauma-informed care, cognitive behavioural therapy for anxiety and depression, collaborative problem-solving, and puberty education. Her background spans early intervention, community-based practice in regional and rural settings, and specialised work with children and families through both telehealth and face-to-face care.

• Your first visit

  The initial assessment typically takes 2 to 4 sessions depending on your child's specific needs and your family's circumstances. The process includes in-depth discussions with parents to gather background information, standardised assessments to evaluate your child's motor skills and sensory integration, parent questionnaires, and a clinical observation session with your child. A comprehensive report is then prepared that outlines your child's strengths, needs, and daily challenges, informing personalised recommendations. This thorough approach ensures the therapist fully understands your child's unique situation before developing a tailored support plan.