Frequently Asked Questions
We know families often have questions about our services, so we’ve compiled this list of Q&As to help. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, feel free to reach out.
General
We understand that timely support is important and do our best to match families with the right therapist as soon as possible. While wait times vary across services, we are always happy to discuss availability and explore alternative options if needed. If you’d like an update on your place on the list, feel free to reach out—we’re here to help!
At Kaleidoscope Therapy we develop groups for children who have similar goals and interests and where we believe goals will be better achieved in a group setting.
For example when working with children with social and communication goals therapists may use a variety of group activities to teach kids to communicate effectively, take turns, share and understand perspectives of others. These sessions can be beneficial as they provide a safe space to practice new skills with peers who have similar challenges.
Our initial sessions are typically conducted via telehealth, allowing us to gather valuable information about your child. During this sessions, the clinician will discuss with you your child’s needs and discuss your goals and create an assessment and treatment plan.
Follow up session will then be in the clinic with your child.
No, but your GP will be able to activate a Chronic Disease Management (CDM) plan, if you are eligible.
Please ring us at anytime on 03 5403 2440.If the phone is unattended leave a message as all calls are time stamped (this includes weekends and public holidays.
Alternatively, you can email admin@kaleidoscopetherapy.com.au
Cancellation fees are charged as per our cancellation policy of requiring at least 48 hours notice
Cancellation fees are necessary to ensure the clinic can continue providing services. If the clinic were unable to charge cancellation fees, it would struggle to cover costs and could potentially close, leaving families without essential therapy services.
A copy of our full cancellation policy will be provided to you when you complete the intake form.
Please Provide the CDM form (Chronic disease Management Form) or Enhanced Primary Care Plan
(EPC) to your Provider at the first appointment.
Details of the referrer will be included on your invoice. Once this has been paid in full on the day of
your appointment you can claim the rebate ($60.35) from Medicare. Link below will show you how
to claim online.
https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/individuals/subjects/how-claim-medicare-benefit/medicare-claims
Please note the CDM will cover a maximum of 5 sessions and there will be a gap payment as the
benefit does not cover the full amount of the sessions which are;
60 minute session – $193.99
45 minute session– $145.49
We know that a first visit to a new place can feel a little overwhelming — especially for children who like to know what to expect. One way to help prepare your child is by using our social story, Going to Kaleidoscope Therapy.
This short, visual story gently walks your child through what will happen during their visit — from arriving at the clinic to meeting their therapist. It’s designed to reduce anxiety, build confidence, and create a sense of familiarity ahead of time.
You can read it together before your appointment and revisit it as often as needed. Many families find it helps their child feel more comfortable and ready for the new experience.
View or download the social story here.
Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy can help children if they find daily tasks challenging such as:
Play and Engaging
Writing and Hand Skills – Trouble holding a pencil, forming letters, cutting shapes, or using small objects.
Behaviour and Social Skills – Difficulty managing emotions, coping with change, making friends, or understanding social cues.
Self-Care and Organisation – Struggle with dressing, tying shoelaces, using cutlery, or following multi-step tasks.
Eating and Sensory Regulation – Fussy eating, difficulty processing sensory input, or trouble staying calm and focused.
Movement and Coordination – Frequent tripping, clumsiness, or difficulty with ball games
Physiotherapy (PT) focuses on movement, strength, and mobility, helping children improve balance, coordination, and motor skills.
Occupational therapy (OT) helps children develop the skills needed for daily activities such as writing, dressing, playing, and socialising. OT also addresses sensory processing, emotional regulation, and fine motor skills.
Both work together to help children participate with confidence.
Speech Pathology
Speech is how we say words—it includes pronunciation, clarity, fluency, and voice. Children with speech difficulties may struggle articulating sounds, stuttering, or speaking clearly.
Language is how we understand and use words to communicate. It includes expressing thoughts, understanding instructions, forming sentences, and social communication.
A child may have challenges with one or both areas, and speech pathologists can help them develop skills for clearer, more effective communication.
Every child develops at their own pace, but if your child isn’t using words or seems behind in their communication, a speech pathologist can assess their language development and provide guidance on the next steps.
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy is safe for babies from birth and can help with movement, strength, and coordination at any stage of development. Early support can assist with reaching milestones like sitting, crawling, and walking.
Psychology
If your child is struggling with big emotions, anxiety, low mood, behaviour changes, social challenges, or coping with life events, therapy can help them build resilience and develop healthy coping strategies. If you’re unsure, a psychologist can assess their needs and guide you on the best support options.
Medicare and NDIS may help cover costs. Medicare rebates are available with a referral from a GP under specific plans, while NDIS funding can support therapy for eligible children. Contact us to discuss your options.
Allied Health Assistant
Allied Health Assistants work under the guidance of Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists, and Speech Pathologists to help children and families build on therapy goals across different environments. They deliver therapy programs in the clinic, childcare, kindergarten, and home, providing hands-on support to reinforce learning and progress. By working alongside therapists, they help ensure consistent and meaningful development for your child.
Key Workers
Kaleidoscope key workers are experienced allied health professionals or early childhood educators with expertise in early childhood development and disability. They work closely with our therapists, following family-centred practices to support your child in achieving their developmental goals. In everyday environments like home, childcare, kinder, or school. Key workers ensure therapy naturally fits into your child’s daily routine.