Frequently Asked Questions

When should Mental Health Occupational Therapy be engaged?

Early intervention is a good indicator for successful management.  Mental Health Occupational Therapy can be used at different points of rehabilitation management with improvement levels correlating with time to referral.

 

Will MHOT assist an individual to return to work?

The individual’s motivation to be engaged in services to assist them to return to work is always a factor of a successful return to work.  Mental Health Occupational Therapy empowers the individual to be engaged in a program where skills are developed to increase confidence in relating effectively to others in a range of settings.  This increased confidence and ability to relate to others, assists in the transition back to work.

 

How much will it cost?

The Occupational Therapist in Mental Health provides a structured rehabilitation plan with a specified number of sessions. The gazetted rate is charged as per the ReturnToWorkSA Occupational Therapy Fee Schedule, with costs agreed prior to commencement.

 

Can the service be ceased at any time?

Yes. The service can be ceased by the treating medical expert, case manager or occupational therapist if the individual is non-compliant and not participating and/or the program is not assisting the individual to make gains and progress.

 

How do I know Mental Health Occupational Therapy works?

Mental Health Occupational Therapy is an evidenced-based intervention which has been used effectively for many years in both community settings and hospitals for people with mental illness.

Medicare recognises occupational therapists who meet the Australian Competency Standards for Occupational Therapists in Mental Health as developed by the Australian Association of Occupational Therapists, with provider status allowing them to provide mental health programs for private individuals in the community. 

 

Do occupational therapists work with other health providers or do they work alone?

Both. Occupational Therapists in Mental Health are able to work alone or alongside other health professionals. They are able to collaborate with the treating medical expert or psychologist to reinforce the strategies to empower the individual.

Occupational therapists in the community work with a general practitioner or a psychiatrist to provide the services outlined on this website.

 

Can I use any rehabilitation provider?

Yes. Back on Track Mental Health Occupational Therapy is an independent program and sits outside vocational rehabilitation. Any rehabilitaiton provider can be engaged to deliver rehabilitation management services.