Frequently Asked Questions about Country Therapy
Over our years at Country Therapy, we’ve begun to recognise that many new clients have similar questions about what we do. So, here are our responses to some of the most commonly asked questions about our work.
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What do occupational therapists do?
Occupational therapy is a very practical allied health discipline.
We focus on helping you improve your ability to manage daily activities such as:
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Personal care – showering, dressing
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Nutrition – planning and preparing meals
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Education, work or volunteering
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Hobbies and leisure activities.
We can help you improve your skills and find creative ways to modify the activity or the environment to make it easier for you to manage independently.
What training do occupational therapists have?
Occupational therapists must complete an undergraduate degree or Masters degree in occupational therapy. Once we’ve qualified, we maintain our skills by completing at least 30 hours of continuing professional development each year.
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Who do we help?
We support:
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Children, adults and seniors
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People with disabilities
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People with chronic health conditions or neurodiversity.
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What can we help with?
Many things! We can support you with:
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Managing sensory processing struggles
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Developing fine motor skills – to improve handwriting, for example
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Developing gross motor skills
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Improving social skills and play skills
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Emotional regulation
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Improving attention and concentration to improve performance at work or school
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Practical ways to improve toilet training, meal times and sleep
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Visual motor skills training
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Home modifications
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In-home care and support.
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Areas we service
We’re based in the old gold rush town of Ararat, nestled between the mountains and service the areas of:
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Ararat
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Stawell
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Horsham
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Bacchus Marsh
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Melton
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West Melbourne.
In some cases, you come to us, and in some cases (depending on where you live), we can come to you.
We love serving the communities of rural Victoria and are committed to playing our part in improving access to healthcare for people living outside the city.
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How do we approach therapy?
Whether we’re working with our youngest patients or our most senior, we take a strengths-based approach to therapy. That involves:
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Respecting your individuality
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Recognising and encouraging your capacity
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Working with you (not for you!) to help you meet your goals.
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Do I need a referral?
If you’re seeking us out privately, then there’s no need for a referral – you can simply book an appointment.
If you’re using your NDIS Plan, you can book our services directly or through your Support Coordinator.
If you have a Chronic Disease Management Plan, you will need a referral from your GP.
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What does it cost/funding options?
You may access our services in three ways:
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Privately, using your own funds
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Using your NDIS Plan funding
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Through Medicare with a Chronic Disease Management Plan.
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What is a chronic disease management plan?
If you have a chronic condition or complex health needs, you may access a Medicare rebate for up to 5 sessions a year with a Chronic Disease Management Plan. Your GP or paediatrician prepares this, who then refers you to us. Usually, your GP will ask you to book a longer appointment to prepare this plan.
What are ‘assessments’ and why might I need one?
Assessments are a structured approach to evaluating your needs against set criteria. They are a valuable tool for helping you access funding and support relating to:
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Accommodation
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Supported disability accommodation (SDA) assessment
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Supported Independent Living (SIL) assessment
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Independent Living Option (ILO) assessment
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Sensory needs
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Assistive technology
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Functional capacity.
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What is schema therapy?
A ‘schema’ is a negative belief about your life that may affect your self-esteem, relationships or mental health. Such schemas may drive you into the arms of unsuitable partners or lead you to choose an unfulfilling career.
Schema therapy involves a series of assessments to help you recognise your schemas or problematic copying styles and then learn how to make changes to improve your life.
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What is cognitive behavioural therapy?
Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) is a talk therapy that helps you recognise unhelpful patterns of thinking (cognition) and behaviour and then helps you learn more helpful ways to approach situations in your life.
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Disclaimer
All information is general and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Country Therapy can consult with you to confirm if a particular treatment is right for you.