Help and resources

Which support do you need?

Two kinds of workers, one simple difference. A therapy assistant helps you with therapy. A support worker helps you with everyday life. Here is how to tell which one is right for you.

You already work with a therapist And you would love a hand practising the plan between appointments, at home or out in the community. A therapy assistant is your match› You need a hand day to day Morning and evening routines, getting to appointments, shopping, social activities and getting out and about. A support worker is your match›

Side by side

Therapy assistant Support worker
Helps with Your therapy program Everyday living
Therapist needed Yes, and we can help you find one No
Works under A therapy plan set by your allied health professional Your service plan
Typical session Shorter and focused Longer and flexible
Usually funded by Capacity building Core support
Background Allied health students and graduates, or a Certificate III or IV in Allied Health Assistance A wider range of backgrounds, screened and trained by Fora

What they can help with

Therapy assistants Can help with
  • Practising the exercises and strategies your therapist has set
  • Building therapy into your everyday routine at home
  • Seeing you between your therapist appointments
  • Everyday activities that are part of your therapy goals, like a morning routine that builds independence
  • Feeding progress back to your therapist
Cannot do
  • Replace your therapist
  • Recommend future therapy or funding
  • Work with you without a therapist involved
Support workers Can help with
  • Morning and evening routines
  • Getting to appointments and out into the community
  • Play, social activities and building connections
  • Longer respite sessions
  • Going along to therapy or after-school activities
Cannot do
  • Complex personal care, such as showering or toileting
  • Looking after siblings
  • School drop off and pick up
  • Cleaning or household maintenance

Not sure whether something is on the list? Just ask us. We would rather sort it out with you upfront than have you wondering.

Can one person do both?

Often, yes. Plenty of our therapy assistants also work with their clients as support workers for longer shifts, so you can keep the same familiar face across both kinds of support. Tell us what you are after and one of our friendly team will help you find someone who fits.