Mental Health, Autism & Sensory Processing
At Living to the Max Occupational Therapy, we understand the challenges faced by those with a mental illness. Equally, those with autism, or who struggle with sensory processing, can experience daily obstacles to their independence, quality of life and overall wellbeing. This is where we can help.
Experience. That’s our difference.
How can OT assist with mental health, autism or those experiencing sensory issues?
Our occupational therapists who specialise in these fields help people to achieve everyday activities that are meaningful and essential for daily living. Whether it’s supporting someone through mental health OT in Adelaide, providing targeted strategies for autism OT, or addressing challenges through sensory occupational therapy, we tailor interventions to each person’s unique needs. We draw on a range of psychological and occupational therapy strategies to help individuals understand and cope with their daily function, productivity, and capacity through the prescription of tasks and activities.
Our occupational therapists use individual programs and activities to enhance independence in everyday routines. Our OT services may include developing coping strategies for people overcoming mental health issues, those who have difficulty regulating their behaviour, or those who struggle with sensory processing and sensory integration challenges. For individuals requiring a more structured approach, our OTs can also conduct a comprehensive OT sensory assessment to gain insights into sensory sensitivities and processing patterns. Ultimately, our OTs can have a significant impact on improving confidence and self-esteem, particularly in social situations.
What’s the process?
Firstly, our OT will assess the individual’s mental health status and/or their functional status as it relates to their diagnoses, such as autism, sensory issues, or other mental health conditions. This includes a comprehensive sensory processing OT assessment when required, as well as considering all details of the diagnosis, history, and treatment to date. Our OT may also use recognised and standardised tools to ensure we gain the best understanding of the individual’s current health and sensory status.
Secondly, our OT will assess overall function. This functional assessment explores habits, routines, roles, values, interests, environment, attitudes, motivation, activities of daily living (ADL), family dynamics, and relationships. For clients with sensory challenges, targeted sensory occupational therapy strategies may also be incorporated into the assessment phase.
The initial assessment uses a range of evidence-based tools to determine an appropriate intervention plan. Components of the initial assessment may include:
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The individual’s level of function in their work, school, and home roles.
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Identification of occupational performance components, including how mental health conditions, autism, or sensory processing difficulties impact day-to-day functioning.
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Evaluation of whether daily routines can be modified or simplified to improve function.
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Determining if re-organisation or modification of the physical environment, use of sensory cues, or structured daily plans will assist.
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Exploration of motivational factors influencing the individual’s engagement in activities and occupations.
Lastly, our OT will consolidate an assessment summary, complete with tailored recommendations, whether it’s for mental health OT, autism OT, or sensory processing OT interventions – and present these back to you for consideration. Based in Adelaide, our team provides ongoing support and can progress with the treatment phase according to your preferences and goals.
Our commitment to you
Here to support you
Living to the Max is a boutique Occupational Therapy practice serving Adelaide, South Australia. We've spent over 20 years (since 2004) earning a reputation for knowledgeable, ethical, client-focused care, supporting a broad cross-section of our community - from older adults and war veterans to people living with disability.
Our clients come to us with a range of needs, from physical and psychosocial conditions to mental health concerns, neurological conditions, Autism, sensory (vision and hearing) impairments, and age-related cognitive changes.
Experience and expertise
Our skilled Occupational Therapy team carries out thorough in-home assessments - including NDIS Functional Capacity Assessments, and designs individualised interventions aimed at boosting independence and everyday participation. Drawing on deep experience as an NDIS OT provider, we assist clients across the board: from suggesting suitable aids and assistive technology, through to manual handling assessments and responding to each person's specific physical, social, and emotional circumstances. Our focus is on practical, evidence-informed solutions that help clients reach their full potential.
Experience. That’s our difference.
Flexible service delivery
The choice of how you receive your care is yours. We offer three delivery options - at your home, at our modern clinic, or online through a straightforward virtual platform, giving us the flexibility to serve not just metropolitan Adelaide and the Adelaide Hills, but also clients in rural and remote areas.
Enquire Today
You choose. In-home, In-clinic or Virtual Appointments Available.
Or call (08) 8331 0566