What to Bring to Your Initial Assessment: A Quick Guide
- claire2876
- Jun 6
- 2 min read
Starting with a new therapy service can feel like a big step — and we want to make that process as smooth and stress-free as possible for you. Whether you’re coming in for occupational therapy, speech pathology, or another allied health service, bringing the right documents to your initial assessment can help your therapist get a clear picture of your background and needs from the very first session.
Here’s what you should bring with you — and why it matters.
Any Previous Reports or Medical Summaries
If you’ve worked with other therapists, doctors, or health professionals in the past, it’s incredibly helpful to bring:
Occupational therapy or speech pathology reports
Medical summaries from GPs or specialists
Hospital discharge summaries
Psychological or educational assessments
These documents give your new therapist a strong foundation — helping us understand your health history, previous supports, and what has or hasn’t worked for you in the past. It allows us to tailor our services to your needs right from the start.
Funding-Related Documents
If you’re accessing services under a funding scheme, please bring along the relevant documents so we can align your therapy plan with the requirements and goals outlined by your funding provider. These may include:
NDIS participants: Bring a copy of your current NDIS Plan (especially the goals section and relevant funding categories)
DVA clients: Bring your DVA referral or approval letter
Aged Care clients: Bring a copy of your Aged Care Assessment or Home Care Package documentation
Medicare clients: Bring your GP Management Plan, Team Care Arrangement, or Mental Health Care Plan
If you’re unsure, feel free to ask your referrer for a copy or contact our clinic in advance.
How to Provide Your Documents
You can bring a hard copy of your documents to your appointment — we’re happy to photocopy them at the clinic. Alternatively, you can email them ahead of time to:
📞 Prefer to speak with someone? Call us on (02) 4421 6013
Other Helpful Items
While the above are the most important, you might also like to bring:
A support person or family member (especially if they help you make decisions or know your history well)
A list of questions you’d like to ask your therapist
Any assistive technology, communication devices, or tools you currently use
Final Thoughts
Your initial assessment is the first step in building a therapy plan that’s just right for you. Coming prepared with reports and funding documents allows us to understand your journey, meet reporting obligations, and start working toward your goals from day one.
We look forward to welcoming you at South Coast Therapy & Support Group. If you have any questions before your appointment, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
📞 (02) 4421 6013
