The Vital Role of Therapy Assistants in Support Services

Therapy Assistants play an important role in helping people achieve their goals through structured, practical support. At Access Your Supports (AYS), our Therapy Assistants work under the direct supervision of our experienced Occupational Therapists to deliver personalised programs that make a real difference.

They provide consistent, hands-on help to build skills, improve independence, and increase confidence. Their work complements therapy sessions, allowing participants to practise and develop the abilities they need for daily life.

Therapy Assistants Provide Goal-Focused Support

A Therapy Assistant supports a qualified therapist by delivering parts of a therapy program. At AYS, this means working 1:1 with participants to practise skills and activities designed by an Occupational Therapist.

Therapy Assistants help extend face-to-face support hours, so participants have more time to work on key goals. This approach is valuable for building capacity in areas that require repetition and regular practice.

At AYS, our Therapy Assistants are all studying at university to become Occupational Therapists themselves. This gives them a strong understanding of therapy principles and a genuine commitment to helping participants succeed.

Support Across Activities

Therapy Assistants support participants across a wide range of activities under the supervision of the relevant therapist. This includes:

  • Travel training – learning to use public transport or navigate community spaces safely.
  • Meal preparation – practising cooking skills and planning healthy meals.
  • Routine development – building daily structures to support independence.
  • Domestic skills – learning cleaning, laundry, and other household tasks.
  • Emotional regulation – applying strategies to manage feelings and responses.
  • Social skills – improving communication and interaction with others.
  • Community confidence – participating in local events, activities, and services.

By focusing on practical, real-world skills, Therapy Assistants help participants achieve greater independence and take part more fully in their community.

Types of Therapy Assistant Roles

Therapy Assistants at AYS may support participants in several specialist areas:

1. Community Health Nursing Aide or Assistant

Provides care for people who are sick, aged, or living with a disability, including those on extended bed rest. Tasks may include personal hygiene support such as showering, bathing, and dressing, as well as ensuring a healthy diet.

2. Occupational Therapy Aide or Assistant

Helps deliver therapy in homes, clinics, hospitals, or day centres. This may involve constructing and adjusting aids or equipment, supporting self-care routines, and assisting with rehabilitation activities.

3. Physiotherapy Aide or Assistant

Assists participants with exercise or rehabilitation programs, delivers and adjusts self-care equipment, and demonstrates correct use. They may also help with safe transfers and mobility within the home or to other facilities.

4. Speech Pathology Aide or Assistant

Supports therapy programs set by a Speech Pathologist, including helping participants use communication devices and preparing therapy materials.

The AYS Difference

At AYS, we are committed to providing therapy services that are practical, personalised, and empowering. Our Therapy Assistants:

  • Work closely with qualified therapists.
  • Receive ongoing training and supervision.
  • Focus on participant goals outlined in NDIS plans.
  • Bring enthusiasm, empathy, and professionalism to every session.

Because our Therapy Assistants are training to become Occupational Therapists, they combine hands-on support with strong theoretical knowledge.

Meet Our Team of Therapy Assistants

We are proud of our talented and dedicated Therapy Assistants who bring energy, skill, and care to every session. You can get to know them by visiting our Team of Therapy Assistants page. Here, you’ll find information about their backgrounds, interests, and the unique strengths they bring to their work.

Value in Support Services

Therapy Assistants allow participants to have more frequent contact with support staff without the cost of a full therapy session every time. This means more opportunities to practise skills and work towards goals, which can lead to faster progress.

They also provide flexibility. Sessions can take place at home, in the community, or online, making it easier for participants to fit therapy into their lives.

Accessing Therapy Assistant Services Through AYS

AYS offers Therapy Assistant services to NDIS participants across Victoria. Whether you need help building daily living skills, improving mobility, or increasing social participation, our team can provide the right support under professional guidance.

If you are looking for a Therapy Assistant who is dedicated, skilled, and committed to helping you reach your goals, we are ready to help.

Contact us today to learn more or to arrange your first session.

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