Frequently Asked Questions
What is occupational therapy and how can it help?
Occupational therapy helps people of all ages build the skills they need for everyday life. At Learn For Life OT, we support children, adolescents, and adults to improve independence, confidence, and participation at home, school, work, and in the community.
Depending on individual goals, occupational therapy can support:
- Emotional regulation and mental wellbeing
- Attention, concentration, and organisation
- Fine motor skills (e.g. handwriting, hand strength, coordination)
- Gross motor skills (e.g. balance, posture, movement)
- Sensory processing and regulation
- Daily living skills such as dressing, feeding, personal care, and routines
- Social skills, confidence, and independence
- Functional skills for school, employment, and community participation
Which conditions do you support at Learn For Life OT?
We support children, adolescents, and adults with a wide range of diagnoses and functional challenges, including:
Developmental delays
Autism spectrum disorder
ADHD
Chromosomal abnormalities
Cerebral palsy
Multiple sclerosis (MS)
Parkinson’s disease
Neurological and physical conditions
Sensory processing differences
Challenges with emotional regulation and daily functioning
While we do not provide mental health-specific therapy, our occupational therapists work in a trauma-informed, person-centred way, creating a safe and supportive environment that respects individual experiences, strengths, and needs.
What age group do you work with?
Learn For Life OT primarily focuses on paediatric occupational therapy, supporting developmental skills in children from 1 year of age through to young adulthood.
In addition, we have a specialised adult occupational therapy team that provides therapy and assessment for adults to support function, independence, and quality of life.
Whether for children or adults, our approach is individualised, strengths-based, and tailored to each client’s unique needs.
Can occupational therapy help with school readiness and school participation?
Yes. Occupational therapy for children can support:
- Fine and gross motor development
- Handwriting and classroom tasks
- Attention, organisation, and self-regulation
- Transitions and daily routines
- Social skills and peer interactions
Where appropriate, we collaborate with schools and educators to ensure strategies are consistent across environments.
How long are occupational therapy sessions and how often are they held?
Sessions are typically 45 minutes face-to-face, with additional time allocated for preparation and clinical documentation (approximately 70 minutes of total therapist time).
Session length may vary depending on age, goals, or session type (e.g. assessments, meetings, or reports).
Frequency of sessions is individualised. Many clients attend weekly or fortnightly sessions, while others benefit from short-term or periodic support.
Your therapist will work with you to create a therapy plan that fits your goals, lifestyle, and funding arrangements.
Do you offer home programs or support for families and caregivers?
Yes. We provide practical strategies, education, and home programs to support progress between sessions. Families, caregivers, and support networks play a key role in helping therapy outcomes translate into real-life success.
Do I need a referral to see an occupational therapist in Adelaide?
No referral is required for private or NDIS-funded occupational therapy — you can self-refer at any time.
If you are accessing therapy under a Medicare Chronic Disease Management Plan, a referral from your GP is required.
Do you accept NDIS funding?
Yes. Learn For Life OT provides NDIS occupational therapy services in Adelaide. We support self-managed and plan-managed participants and can help you understand how occupational therapy fits within your NDIS plan.
Do you offer Medicare-subsidised occupational therapy?
Yes. Occupational therapy may be available under a Medicare Chronic Disease Management Plan with a valid GP referral. Please contact us to discuss eligibility and current rebates.
Where is Learn For Life OT located and where are sessions held?
Our clinic is based in Torrensville, South Australia, and we provide occupational therapy services within a 30-minute radius across metropolitan Adelaide. Sessions may be delivered in-clinic, at home, at school or childcare, in the workplace, or in community settings. Telehealth appointments are also available where appropriate.
How long will occupational therapy be needed?
The length of therapy varies depending on individual goals and needs. Some clients benefit from short-term, goal-focused therapy, while others require ongoing support for long-term goals. We regularly review progress to ensure therapy remains effective, meaningful, and aligned with your priorities.
How do I book an occupational therapy appointment in Adelaide?
You can contact Learn For Life OT directly to book an appointment or ask any questions by calling 8257 9185 or emailing admin@learnforlifeot.com.au. If you’re ready to get started, you can also submit a referral through our website here. We aim to make beginning occupational therapy simple, welcoming, and supportive for individuals and families every step of the way.