Therapy assessments with Aspect
Aspect therapists and positive behaviour support practitioners offer a range of therapy assessments tailored to each person’s needs. We take a collaborative approach, working with the individual, their family, and support networks to ensure everyone’s perspective is considered for a comprehensive and inclusive understanding.
What to Expect
After the assessment, you’ll receive a detailed report outlining:
- The person’s strengths and preferences
- Practical support strategies
- Useful resources and recommendations to assist the individual in their daily life
You do not need to be an Aspect participant to access our assessments. The time and cost depend on the assessment type and the individual’s needs. This will be discussed with you after completing the intake form.
Assessment reports may support conversations with the NDIA about funding for services.
Types of therapy assessments
The following outlines and provides further information about the assessments we provide.
Occupational Therapy assessments
We offer both Sensory Assessments and Functional Capacity Assessments (FCA) using tools like the Sensory Profile-2, Vineland-3 and other assessment tools.
Sensory Assessments
We assess sensory processing differences using tools like the Sensory Profile-2, alongside observations and information gathering. The assessment may also include input from families, educators, and health professionals, if required. The report explains:
- Sensory differences and preferences
- How these impact their daily activities
- Strategies and recommendations for support
Functional Capacity Assessments (FCA)
An FCA evaluates how a person manages daily activities and their support needs, using tools such as Vineland-3 and other assessments where needed. Information is also gathered about how a participant functions and their need for support in their environment. This varies depending on their age and may include:
- Communication
- Social participation
- Self-care and self-management (dressing, toileting, showering, eating, shopping, cleaning, etc.)
- Learning and community participation (preschool, school, work, etc.)
- Mobility and motor skills
- Sensory differences
- Emotional regulation
- Behaviours of concern
The report details functional strengths, support needs, and recommendations aligned with NDIS ‘reasonable and necessary’ criteria.
Note: We do not provide FCA reports for Supported Independent Living (SIL) or Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) recommendations.
Speech Pathology assessments
We offer Communication Assessment and Transition Support (CATS) and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) assessments to consider the person’s communication preferences, and assess and recommend the right AAC tools to communicate confidently.
Communication Assessment and Transition Support (CATS)
The assessment considers the person’s communication preferences, processing style, sensory needs, and abilities, and is ideal for individuals transitioning to new environments (e.g., day-care, school, work).
We assess communication across areas like receptive, expressive, and social communication based on the participant’s needs age and functioning level. These may include:
- Standardised and non-standardised tools (e.g., CELF-5)
- Observational checklists
- Self- and carer-report questionnaires
- Input from families and support networks
The report provides practical strategies to support effective communication with their support network and in the community. A feedback session can also be provided to explain findings and recommendations and answer any questions to ensure everyone understands and can apply the recommended strategies.
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
For individuals with complex communication needs, we assess and recommend the right AAC tools to communicate confidently. We begin by understanding the individual’s unique communication needs, preferences, and goals, working closely with the individual, family, and wider support team. Using trusted tools, such as SETT and AAC Profile, we ensure:
- Personalised and appropriate recommendations for communication devices
- Goal-setting aligned with individual needs
- Access to loan devices
- Support with trialling the equipment
- Ongoing troubleshooting and support
The assessment report helps with NDIS funding applications and ensures the participant and their communication partners are confident in using the technology.
Positive Behaviour Support (PBS)
PBS can help to understand behaviours of concern from multiple perspectives
Functional Behaviour Assessments
Aspect’s positive behaviour support (PBS) practitioners observe why the behaviours of concern are occurring, and identify important information about the person’s stressors and unmet needs. The assessment informs safety planning and positive outcomes, developed in collaboration with the person and their support network.
