Is Online Therapy Right for My Child? Exploring Telehealth Options for NDIS Families

Published at 24-03-2025 14:14:54

Tags: #ForParticipants

The NDIS aims to give children with disabilities access to early intervention services, but many parents face challenges due to a shortage of available therapy options like Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, and Psychology. In some areas, waiting lists can extend beyond 12 months, preventing families from accessing essential NDIS therapy funding.

Online therapy, also known as teletherapy or telehealth, has emerged as a viable solution. It allows children to receive therapy remotely, using a computer, iPad, or even a smartphone, which is particularly useful in regional areas where in-person services may be limited or unavailable. Considering telehealth could be a quicker and more effective way to access therapy for your child.

Why Online Therapy Might Be a Great Fit for Your Child

Here are some key reasons why online therapy could be the best choice for your child:

Timing

If your child has less than 6 months left on their NDIS plan, waiting for a face-to-face therapist might not be feasible due to long waitlists. Online therapy helps you get started sooner, ensuring you make the most of your NDIS funding.

Accessibility

For families in rural or remote areas, online therapy makes it possible to access therapy services without needing to travel. This is especially important for children with mobility issues or other disabilities that make transportation difficult.

Flexibility

Online therapy offers scheduling flexibility, which can be a relief for busy families with other commitments. Whether your child is in school or has a complex schedule, telehealth can fit around their daily routine, saving time and effort.

Reduced Anxiety

Some children, especially those with autism or anxiety, may feel uncomfortable in new environments or around unfamiliar people. Online therapy allows them to stay in their familiar home environment, helping them feel more relaxed and engaged.

Comfort in Familiar Surroundings

Children often feel most at ease in their own home. By receiving therapy in a familiar space, they may experience less stress and anxiety, which can lead to better outcomes during their sessions.

Parental Involvement

Online therapy also enables more active participation from parents or caregivers. You can observe the therapist’s strategies and techniques and integrate these methods into your child’s daily life, boosting their progress.

Value for Money

With telehealth, your funding goes entirely towards therapy, avoiding additional travel costs that can significantly impact your budget. Travel charges often add up, especially for rural or remote sessions, so telehealth ensures your resources are spent more effectively.

Immediate Access

Rather than waiting months for an in-person appointment, online therapy can get you started right away, ensuring that your child’s needs are addressed promptly. You can also access crucial assessments that may open the door to further supports.

Continuity of Care

Online therapy provides consistent access to care, even when faced with challenges such as COVID-19 restrictions, environmental issues (like floods), or living in a remote location.

Is Online Therapy Suitable for My Child?

Online therapy's suitability depends on the type of therapy and your child’s specific disability. Many families have had success with online Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Psychology, and Counseling. Therapists can even perform certain diagnoses and assessments remotely through telehealth.

How to Tell If Your Child Can Engage in Online Therapy

Parents often worry that their child won’t stay engaged during online sessions. However, if your child enjoys activities like gaming, they are likely to do well with online therapy. Engagement depends on both the therapist’s approach and the child’s mood, just as it would in a face-to-face setting.

Online therapists use a wide range of digital tools and evidence-based strategies to keep sessions interactive and engaging.

What If My Child Misbehaves During a Session?

It’s normal for children to act up during therapy, and therapists say this actually provides valuable insight into your child’s behavior in their natural environment. This real-life context can be beneficial for assessments and developing therapy strategies.

What If My Child Can't Sit Still for Long Periods?

Not all children can focus on a screen for extended periods. Online therapists are trained to adapt to these challenges by incorporating breaks and movement during sessions. They understand the need for flexibility.

I’m Not Tech-Savvy—Will I Be Able to Manage Online Therapy?

You don’t have to worry about setting everything up on your own. Most telehealth providers offer guidance to ensure you have the necessary programs installed and are comfortable using the platform before your child’s first session.

What Happens When We Decide to Try Online Therapy?

Each telehealth provider will have its own system and process. They will make sure you’re set up and ready for the session, with support available for any technical difficulties. You can transition to in-person therapy if a spot becomes available, and providers fully understand this flexibility.

How Much Does Online Therapy Cost?

The cost of online therapy is typically the same as in-person therapy, based on the provider’s location. However, participants in remote areas can choose to pay remote or very remote rates if they feel the service offers good value.

For more detailed pricing information, see our resource on What Are the Costs for Teletherapy?

Can I Get an Autism Assessment Online?

Yes, Expath has providers with extensive experience delivering online autism assessments, helping families who have been waiting months for a diagnosis!