Telehealth Therapy Across Australia: How We Support Families and Individuals Anywhere

Welcome!

We are so excited to share these insights with you, because we know how hard it can be to find good help.

Growing need for accessible therapy across regional and urban Australia

Over the past number of years disability support needs as well as mental health have been on the rise. Accessibility is a big issue. Not only are needs increasing, but resources in the helping sectors is not growing at the same pace.

While NDIS services have expanded, it can be harder to find good help. Even doing a Google search now can be daunting!

We used to scroll endlessly to find a therapy provider - then take time to call up half a dozen or a dozen providers. Even more challenging is getting on board. Starting up therapy can be difficult at the best of times.

We know how hard this can be and so we have made things as simple as possible.

Creative processes during counselling and behaviour support are really helpful

How ATS supports clients in multiple states via telehealth

We started in telehealth in education - we both studied at a specialist distance education university in regional Australia. Dr Bowers taught in distance education for about 20 years, and then returned to community practice.

Before NDIS, Dr Jo worked as a Behaviour Specialist in regional NSW. That work demanded extensive travel and we did not have the distance tools that exist today - like zoom, whatsapp and facetime.

The year before Covid, we wrote a book on Telehealth Behaviour Support - because we saw this huge need in regional Australia for expanded services.

During the Covid pandemic, we went 100% into telehealth - and our clients loved this. We found it works great because clients feel more in control and can choose when to work with us in their daily lives. They hold the phone or tablet right in their hands. This makes a big difference.

As therapists we get to connect in real life, in real ways. It is powerful and life changing work.

Flexibility, accessibility, reduced travel, privacy

Working via technology is normal now.

It is actually more normal than packing the car, driving two hours to a surgery, parking, walking up three streets, and sitting in a waiting room. Then you child is having a behavioural episode. You have to get up and walk outside.

Your therapist is late. You panic because things are just too hard. You almost cancel the session.

Then you get into the therapist’s clinical office and you slump in the chair - they expect you to be perky.

You feel spent and even more distressed. Your child is off the wall. They do not engage.

Why did you make all this effort to see your child escalate just because they had to visit an office?

Telehealth behaviour support and counselling therapy is none of the above. While this approach is not for everyone, the research shows that video-based and related forms of therapy via technology is as effective as face-to-face therapy. We offer this form of therapy to give the choice and control to NDIS participants and clients.

Working from home is awesome - see you next week online!

Many forms of therapy for each person - the point is your choice and control

Everyone is different. But often people with neurodevelopmental disabilities are extremely unique and gifted in their needs and vulnerabilities. A person with Autism is gifted and talented in their own ways - just as all human beings are unique.

Going to appointments is traditionally really hard for people with disabilities and mental health needs.

Having online sessions, chats, and talks with a trusted therapist is easier. Much more approachable. And more helpful.

From our clinical view, telehealth is also more informative and useful. As therapists we receive more insight on a person by seeing and communicating with them in real life. This is much better than our years of seeing clients in our office and clinic.

For more information visit our Frequently Asked Question Page - or take a peek again at the Home page for the Contact Form.

Top 10 Reasons to Choose Ability Therapy Specialists (ATS)

Working with your therapist from your home is a valued experience for many families.

Choosing the right therapy service is one of the most important steps you can take toward health, wellbeing, and a brighter future. At Ability Therapy Specialists (ATS), we know how much it matters to feel understood, supported, and empowered along the way.

Here are the top 10 reasons why individuals, families, and communities choose ATS for their therapy journey:

1. You’re at the Heart of Everything We Do

At ATS, therapy isn’t about labels—it’s about people. We listen deeply, respect your goals, and tailor every session to meet your unique needs and circumstances.

2. Highly Skilled and Experienced Team

Our therapists bring extensive qualifications, clinical expertise, and decades of combined experience. More importantly, they bring compassion, respect, and a commitment to walking beside you every step of the way.

3. Comprehensive Services Under One Roof

Whether it’s individual therapy, family support, functional behavioural assessments, or trauma-informed care, ATS provides a wide range of services to meet complex and changing needs.

4. Evidence-Based, Effective Practices

We use therapeutic approaches supported by research—so you can trust that the care you receive is professional, effective, and focused on real outcomes.

5. Support for Complex and Diverse Needs

From mental health challenges to neurodiversity, disability support, complex behavioural problems, and family wellbeing, ATS specialises in helping people with multiple and overlapping needs.

6. Safe, Welcoming, and Confidential

We create a secure, judgement-free environment where you can talk openly and feel respected, valued, and safe at all times.

7. Family and Community Partnerships

Healing and growth often happen in connection with others. We work closely with families, carers, disability staff, mental health workers, hospital staff, and community networks to support the bigger picture of your wellbeing.

8. Flexible Ways to Access Support

With telehealth options we are literally in-your-hands and in your locus of choice and control. Our outreach services span Australia via your phone, mobile tablet, IPad, and laptop. Wherever you are, we are with you. Dr Jorandi and Dr Dwayne makes it easier for you to access therapy in the way that best fits your life.

9. Cultural Respect and Inclusion

We value diversity and honour each person’s cultural background, ensuring our services are inclusive, respectful, and culturally safe.

10. A Focus on Real Change and Growth

Our goal isn’t just to help you manage challenges—it’s to help you thrive. We want every client to build skills, experience growth, and move toward the life they want.

At Ability Therapy Specialists, we believe therapy should be accessible, evidence-based, and empowering. Whether you’re seeking personal healing, developmental support, or strategies for family wellbeing, we’re here to help.

We offer NDIS funded specialist behaviour support, counselling therapies, and therapy assessment. These are our line items - they apply to the behaviour support cluster, the therapy cluster, and therapies can often access your core support funding allocation. Contact us today to find out more about how to use your NDIS Plan funding for making a real difference.

Contact us to book your first session or learn more about how we can support you.