Psychology and the NDIS

The NDIS is about ensuring that all people who have a disability can lead an ordinary life.

The NDIS Act defines ‘an ordinary life’ as that which ‘enable(s) people with a disability to exercise choice and control in the pursuit of their goals and the planning and delivery of their supports’.

There are a number of everyday aspects that contribute to ‘an ordinary life’ for everyone: 

• Positive relationships

• Opportunities for challenge

• Active involvement in decision-making

• Autonomy (doing things independently).

It is this concept of ‘an ordinary life’ that is used to help NDIS participants to shape their goals.

For example:

• I want to be able to continue to live safely at home with my family.

• I want to be as independent as possible with my personal care.

• I want to study at university and work as an accountant.

• I want to join social groups and be a part of my community.

So how can Macquarie Health Collective’s Psychologists help people under the NDIS?

We are committed to helping our clients have access to the opportunities that afford an ‘ordinary life’. Our psychological services fall under the ‘Capacity Building’ umbrella, and more specifically help participants to improve their daily living skills, with a focus on increasing independence and community participation.

What this looks like depends upon the goals of each participant, but some areas in which we’ve worked are:

• Managing anxiety around medical procedures related to the participant’s disability

• Individual social skills development to aid taking part in community and social activities

• Small group social skills programs, with a maximum of 4 participants

• Building self-esteem, confidence and resilience

• Improving coping and stress management skills to deal with life’s ups and downs

• Overcoming social anxiety

Our psychologists also provide Early Childhood supports under the NDIS, for children under the age of 6. These supports cover a range of therapy interventions delivered in a collaborative environment, which are designed to enhance development and maximise the potential of a child who has a developmental delay or is at risk of such a delay.

Currently we are working with a number of children and their families on goals such as:

• Developing social skills

• Identifying and regulating emotions effectively

• Problem solving

• Transitioning between activities and following routines

• Increasing independence

At Macquarie Health Collective we can provide psychology services to NDIS Participants with funding in the areas of Therapeutic Support and Early Childhood Supports. Contact us at enquiries@macquariehealthcollective.com.au or on 6882 7113 to find out more!