Empowering Kids With Goal-Focused Paediatric OT in Marsden Park.
Supporting Children to Thrive Through Individualised Occupational Therapy
Arise Kids OT is a local, mobile paediatric occupational therapy service based in Marsden Park. We work with children and families in everyday environments — whether that’s home, school, daycare, or through teletherapy sessions.
We understand that every child is unique — and so is every family. That’s why our therapy is tailored to your child’s strengths, interests, and real-life goals.
We support families across Marsden Park, Melonba, Colebee, Schofields, Riverstone, Quakers Hill, and Box Hill.
Specialising in neuroaffirming support, we work with neurodivergent children including those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Dyspraxia, Dyslexia, Tourette Syndrome, Global Developmental Delay, Down Syndrome, and Intellectual Disability.
Our approach is strengths-based, goal-driven, and built on a foundation of evidence-based practices — helping your child build the skills they need for everyday life.
From motor skills to emotional regulation, we support your child’s development in the areas that matter most for daily life and independence.
Sensory Regulation
Interoception Awareness
Gross Motor Skills
Fine Motor Skills
Cognition
Visual Perception
Self-Care
Emotional Regulation
Social Skills
Play Skills
Therapy Tailored to Your Child’s Needs
From assessments to ongoing sessions, our services are designed to support your child’s goals in real-life settings
Assessments
Reports
Therapy
Resources
Whether you’re using NDIS, Medicare, private health, or paying out of pocket, we support all options to make accessing therapy easier for your family.
We support families who are self-managed or plan-managed through the National Disability Insurance Scheme. If your child has NDIS funding that includes occupational therapy, we’re able to provide services that align with your goals and funding plan.
We can also help with documentation, progress reports, and session planning to support your child’s NDIS reviews. Just let us know what you need and we’ll guide you through the process.
Your child may be eligible for Medicare rebates through a referral from your GP under a Chronic Disease Management Plan. This plan provides access to a limited number of subsidised allied health sessions, including occupational therapy.
We’ll provide invoices and documentation that meet Medicare requirements. Please check with your GP to confirm if this option is available for your child.
You may be able to claim a rebate for occupational therapy services depending on your private health insurance policy. Each provider is different, so it’s best to check with yours to see what’s covered.
We can issue invoices with the details your insurer may require. If you need help understanding what to ask your provider, we’re happy to assist.
If you don’t have access to NDIS, Medicare, or private health funding, you’re still welcome to access our services by paying out of pocket. We aim to keep our fees transparent and flexible to support families in getting the help they need.
We’ll provide clear invoices and payment options, and you’re welcome to contact us at any time if you’d like to discuss pricing or book sessions that work for your family’s needs.
Thriving Kids is a new Australian Government initiative expected to commence on 1 July 2026. It focuses on identifying developmental concerns earlier and establishing a national system of supports for children aged 0 to 8 years with low to moderate developmental delay and autism, and their families, through community and mainstream services.
Children with significant and permanent disability will continue to be supported through the NDIS.
Arise Kids OT supports families to understand how Occupational Therapy may fit within different funding pathways, including Thriving Kids, NDIS, Medicare, private health insurance, and self-funded options. If you are unsure which pathway is right for your child, we can help you explore the most appropriate options based on your child’s individual needs.
Thriving Kids is designed to support children with low to moderate developmental needs outside the NDIS through early intervention and community-based supports. The NDIS will continue to support children with significant and permanent disability.
Information about government programs is based on publicly available guidance and may change as details are finalised. Eligibility will depend on each child’s individual circumstances. Further details are expected closer to the program commencement date.
Donna brings warmth, experience, and a holistic, neuroaffirming approach to help children build confidence and everyday life skills.
“I believe in empowering children by recognising their strengths and supporting their goals in a way that makes them feel seen, safe, and successful.”
Donna Varghese is a passionate and experienced paediatric occupational therapist who brings both heart and expertise to every session. With over 15 years of experience, Donna specialises in supporting neurodivergent children in their early years.
Her career spans India, Dubai, Canberra, and Sydney — working across both paediatrics and aged care — but her heart has always been with children. Since 2018, she has focused solely on paediatric OT, building a practice that’s holistic, neuroaffirming, and family-focused.
Donna works closely with parents, educators, and other professionals to create holistic, goal-based therapy plans that help children thrive. She is also trained in Keyword Sign, which she uses to support connection and communication both in and outside of therapy.
When she’s not working, Donna enjoys long walks, café-hopping, and spending time in nature with her family. She is a registered member of the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and the Occupational Therapy Australia (OTA).
“I believe in empowering children by recognising their strengths and supporting their goals in a way that makes them feel seen, safe, and successful.”
Have questions or ready to book? Reach out via phone, email, or the form below. We’re happy to help.
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