For GPs and other referrers…
Referring to mental health OT?
What you need to know.
Who to Refer
Clients who are likely to benefit from mental health OT
Mental health OT is particularly well suited to clients whose mental health is affecting their day-to-day functioning. Where practical, skills-based support is needed alongside or independent of psychological intervention.
Functional impairment
Clients struggling with daily routines, self-care, work, study, or community participation due to mental health.
Neurodivergence
ADHD, ASD, or suspected neurodivergence where executive functioning, sensory processing, or routine support is needed.
Complex presentations
BPD, trauma, psychosis, or dual diagnosis where a functional, skills-based approach compliments existing treatment.
Burnout & overwhelm
Clients experiencing burnout, chronic stress, or difficulty managing energy and daily demands.
Recovery & rehabilitation
Clients working toward recovery from acute episodes who need support rebuilding structure and independence.
Compensable schemes
Clients funded through NDIS, WorkCover, or DVA requiring occupational therapy as part of their support plan.
What We Offer
How mental health OT complements your work
Mental health OT sits alongside psychology and psychiatry, addressing the functional impact of mental health on everyday life. Where psychological intervention focuses on thoughts, emotions, and insight, OT focuses on what clients can actually do and builds practical capacity from there.
Functional assessment
Identifying how mental health is affecting a client's occupational performance across daily life, work, and community domains.
Routine and structure building
Developing sustainable daily routines that support mental health stability and prevent relapse.
Sensory and environmental strategies
Particularly for neurodivergent clients where sensory processing impacts function and wellbeing.
DBT skills
Credentialed DBT delivery including emotion regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness.
Capacity building
Supporting clients to develop the skills and confidence to participate fully in their lives and communities.
Energy management and burnout prevention
Pacing strategies, activity modification, and sustainable self-care frameworks.