NDIS Therapy Supports vs Wellbeing Activities
The words therapy and wellbeing are sometimes used loosely, but the NDIS makes an important distinction. NDIS therapy supports are evidence-based supports delivered by appropriately qualified allied health professionals. General wellbeing activities may be valuable, but they are not automatically NDIS-funded therapy.
NDIS therapy supports are clinical and evidence-based
Current NDIS guidance says therapy supports must be evidence-based and aimed at improving or maintaining functional skills and independence. Examples can include occupational therapy, physiotherapy, speech pathology, psychology, social work and other recognised allied health disciplines.
Qualified professionals must deliver therapy supports
The NDIS states that therapy supports are delivered by qualified allied health professionals who are registered with AHPRA or accredited by the relevant peak body for self-regulated professions. A support worker should not present general disability support as clinical therapy unless they hold the required professional qualification and are working within scope.
Wellbeing activities are not automatically therapy
Social activities, general wellness programs, exercise for recreation or coaching may support wellbeing, but that does not make them an NDIS therapy support. The NDIS specifically excludes some wellness and coaching therapies from therapy funding.
Support workers can still play an important practical role
A support worker may help a participant follow everyday routines, attend appointments, practise agreed strategies or carry out non-clinical activities. Where a therapist has recommended a program, the roles, instructions and supervision should be clear.
Check the plan, provider qualifications and intended outcome
Before purchasing a support, ask what budget it comes from, whether it is a stated therapy support, what qualification the provider holds and what functional outcome the support is intended to achieve.
Helpful related pages
Continue with the guide or service page that best matches the next decision you are working through.
Official NDIS information used for this guide
NDIS rules and terminology can change. These official pages are useful for checking the latest position.
Important: This AIC Services guide is general information, not clinical advice or an NDIS funding decision. Clinical therapy must be delivered by appropriately qualified professionals. Confirm provider qualifications, the participant’s current plan and official NDIS information before purchasing a therapy support.
Frequently asked questions
Can any support worker provide NDIS therapy?
No. Current NDIS guidance says therapy supports must be delivered by appropriately qualified allied health professionals.
Is every wellbeing activity an NDIS therapy support?
No. A wellbeing activity may be useful without being a funded therapy support. Funding depends on the support type, evidence, participant plan and NDIS rules.
Can a support worker help with a therapist-recommended routine?
They may be able to help with non-clinical implementation when roles, instructions and any required supervision are clear. The treating allied health professional remains responsible for clinical advice within their scope.
Contact AIC Services
AIC Services
54 Main Road
Moonah, TAS 7009
Phone:
1300 023 456
Email:
support@aicservices.com.au
Office Hours:
Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
54 Main Road, Moonah TAS 7009
To reduce unnecessary third-party requests, interactive mapping is available from our Contact page and Moonah office page.
Contact details & map