PO Box 224, Haberfield 2045 

0415 722 020

Our Services


We help children to achieve their developmental goals, enabling them to become more independent. We work with a broad range of ages, to support children and their families with the challenges that impact their participation and function.


We have experience with neurodevelopment disorders such as ADHD and ASD, as well as other chromosomal disorders, motor coordination issues and developmental delays. Providing children with strategies to increase their fine motor, play and social skill development including handwriting, sensory regulation and perceptual skills. Each child is offered a individualised program that supports their specific needs and goals.

Fine Motor

Fine motor assessment and intervention including upper limb strengthening and skills in  drawing, cutting, tracing activities.

Development

Developmental assessment and intervention, including cognitive, fine motor and gross motor skills. As well as coordination and balance skills.

Handwriting

Hand-writing assessment and intervention including increasing pencil grip, visual perception skills, pencil control, speed and letter formation/legibility.

School readiness

Preschool and school-readiness programs, including developing a dominant hand and social skills.

Self-care

Self-care skill assessment and intervention including dressing and organisation skills.

Sensory

Sensory and emotional regulation. This can be offered across the home and school environments.

Equipment Prescription

Assessment and prescription of equipment that may help adapt an activity that is difficult or where a person may experience reduced function. Such items include mobility aids, seating, pressure care and other assistive technology.

Make An Appointment

Contact us to discuss or schedule an appointment today

MONDAY

09:00 - 18:30

Tuesday

09:00 - 18:30

Wednesday

09:00 - 18:30

Thursday

09:00 - 18:30

Friday

09:00 - 18:30

Saturday

09:00 - 18:30

Sunday

09:00 - 18:30

About Us


At UP Occupational Therapy, we believe every child has the potential to thrive when they feel supported, understood, and empowered. Our approach is centred on both the child and their family, recognising that growth and development happen best when everyone works together.


We work with children who may be finding it challenging to take part in everyday activities - whether that’s keeping up with schoolwork, joining in play at preschool, managing daily routines at home, or engaging in the community. By meeting children in their own environments - classrooms, preschools, daycare centres, and even online - we help them develop the skills they need to flourish.


Some of the areas we support include:


  • Building confidence with classroom skills such as handwriting, pencil grip, writing speed, and organisation
  • Enhancing learning participation through attention, concentration, following instructions, self-regulation, and sensory processing strategies
  • Supporting social and play skills, gross motor development, and communication for success at school and preschool
  • Developing independence with everyday tasks like dressing, feeding, and other self-care routines


As a mobile service based in Sydney’s Inner West, we come to where your child learns and plays. We also offer fun and interactive online sessions, so families can access therapy from the comfort of home. Each session - whether in person or online - includes clear feedback and practical strategies to help you support your child’s progress.


If you’re curious about how therapy with UP OT could work for your child, get in touch to arrange a friendly chat to chat about your families needs



Demi Payne

Principal Occupational Therapist 


UP Occupational Therapy is owned and directed by Occupational Therapist - Demi. 


Demi is an enthusiastic occupational therapist who has a passion for working with people to enhance their participation in their daily activities. In 2016, Demi graduated with a Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) from Western Sydney University.

Since graduating Demi has gained experience working in a Sydney-based tertiary paediatric hospital, in the private sector and in the community with both children and adults. Demi has experience providing therapy in schools with whole classes and individual students, and with individuals and groups in a clinical setting.

She enjoys working with children and with those who require support to meet their learning and developmental potential. Aiming at helping children on a more individual level to reach goals that are meaningful to them and their families. Demi believes in a play-based therapy approach to help children and families reach their goals. She enjoys outdoor play, group games and messy play to engage children enhancing their skills, behaviour, confidence and self-esteem.


Outside of work Demi enjoys dancing salsa, kizomba and bachata, going for walks and reading.


Angela Geltch

Occupational Therapist


Angela is a dual-qualified Occupational Therapist and Counsellor with a strong commitment to supporting the holistic development of children. With over 15 years of clinical experience, she has worked extensively with neurodiverse populations and children experiencing mental health challenges across both community-based and independent school settings.


Angela is passionate about helping children build the foundational skills necessary to thrive emotionally, socially, and academically. She adopts a play-based, strengths-oriented approach that fosters engagement, promotes self-confidence, and encourages meaningful participation in everyday activities. Her therapeutic style is grounded in creating a safe and supportive environment where children feel empowered to explore, learn, and grow.


Outside of her professional role, Angela enjoys staying active through basketball, dancing, and kayaking - activities that reflect her belief in the importance of movement, joy, and balance in life.

Funding

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) / Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI): 


The NDIS was established to allow children and teenagers with developmental or participation difficulties access services such as occupational therapy. Children with any developmental difficulty or formal diagnosis are able to apply for NDIS-funded support. We can work with self-managed and plan-managed NDIS clients. To find out if your child is eligible to receive occupational therapy with UP OT, please call 0415 722 020.

Medicare Rebates: Medicare rebates require your General Practitioner to provide you with a specific care plan. There are three types of care plans:


  • The Chronic and Complex Plan (previously Enhanced Primary Care Plan): 5 individual sessions per year.
  • Better Access to Mental Health / Focused Psychological Services: 6 Individual sessions, with an additional 4 individual sessions after a GP review (max 10 sessions per year). Additional 10 group sessions.


Please note that Medicare covered sessions are a rebate, and therefore a portion of the session will be claimable via medicare.  For further information regarding eligibility, please speak with your general practitioner.

Private Health Insurance: 


We are registered for Private Health Funds rebates. Please check with your health fund if you are eligible to received rebates as cover varies.

About UP Occupational Therapy

UP Occupational Therapy is owned and directed by Occupational Therapist - Demi. 


Demi is an enthusiastic occupational therapist who has a passion for working with people to enhance their participation in their daily activities. In 2016, Demi graduated with a Masters of Occupational Therapy (MOT) from Western Sydney University. 


Demi Payne

Managing Director

Occupational Therapist  MOT


Since graduating Demi has gained experience working in a Sydney-based tertiary paediatric hospital, in the private sector and in the community with both children and adults. Demi has experience providing therapy in schools with whole classes and individual students, and with individuals and groups in a clinical setting.


She enjoys working with children and with those who require support to meet their have learning and developmental potential. Aiming at helping children on a more individual level to reach goals that are meaningful to them and their families. Demi believes in a play-based therapy approach to help children and families reach their goals. She enjoys outdoor play, group games and messy play to engage children enhancing their skills, behaviour, confidence and self-esteem.


Outside of work Demi enjoys attending salsa and bachata dance classes, organising and labelling, going for walks (in the sunshine) and reading.

Learning & Fun

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Friendly Place

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Child Safety

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Fresh & Healthy Meals

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COVID-19 Update

UP OT remains open and continues to be considered an essential service.

UP OT cares about ensuring NSW Health Covid guidelines and restrictions are maintained. With the current increasing number of community cases, it is vital that we ensure and do our part to adhere to the public health orders. 

UP OT remains open to continue supporting clients and their families through this challenging time. The following measures have been implemented to ensure the safety of our clients:


  • Checking-in via the NSW Covid safe QR code will be mandatory upon entry
  • Hand sanitiser and hand washing facilities will be available for clients use throughout therapy sessions
  • Where possible, telehealth appointments will be offered
  • Masks will be worn by staff and will be required to be worn by clients and their families when attending the clinic
  • Therapy spaces will be limited to 1 parent and 1 child at any time. Currently,  siblings will not be able to attend the clinic
  • Sanitisation of therapy resources and equipment between each use remains standard practice
  • There will be a 15 minute time-lapse scheduled between appointment times to reduce contact with other clients and their families