Should We Worry About Play Therapy Being Removed from the NDIS?

There’s been a lot of talk recently about whether play therapy will continue to be covered under the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme).

If you’re a parent, caregiver, or someone who relies on the NDIS for support, you might be wondering whether this change will affect you and your family.

Let’s break it down so you can better understand what’s going on—and whether it’s something to be concerned about.

What Is Play Therapy?

Before diving into the NDIS changes, it’s important to understand what play therapy is. Play therapy is a form of therapy where children express their feelings, thoughts, and experiences through play, toys, art, and other creative activities. It’s especially helpful for children who find it difficult to communicate using words.

Why Is Play Therapy Important?

For children—particularly those with autism, ADHD, anxiety, or trauma—play therapy can be a game-changer. It provides a safe and natural way for children to process emotions and build essential life skills, including:

• Emotional regulation (managing big feelings)
• Social skills (interacting with others)
• Communication (expressing needs and emotions)

For many families, play therapy is an essential part of their child’s development and mental well-being. So, what happens if it’s no longer funded by the NDIS?

What’s Happening with Play Therapy and the NDIS?

The NDIS currently provides funding for a wide range of therapies and supports for people with disabilities. However, recent discussions have raised concerns about whether play therapy will continue to be covered. These concerns stem from changes in how the NDIS defines “therapeutic services.”

These adjustments are part of broader efforts to ensure that NDIS funding is used effectively. The worry is that some therapies—such as play therapy—might not be considered “essential” or “evidence-based” enough to meet the revised criteria. As a result, families could lose access to this valuable service.

Should You Be Worried?

It’s completely understandable to feel anxious, especially if play therapy has played a significant role in your child’s progress. However, it’s important to keep a few things in mind:

1. Play Therapy Is Well-Researched and Effective
   Decades of research support the effectiveness of play therapy, particularly for children with developmental and emotional challenges. It is widely recognised by professionals in mental health and disability support as a meaningful and effective intervention.
2. Advocacy Is Strong
   Many organisations, therapists, and families are actively advocating for play therapy to remain a funded service under the NDIS. Their goal is to ensure essential therapies remain accessible to children who benefit most from them.
3. There Are Other Options
   If play therapy is removed or becomes more limited under the NDIS, other options may still be available. Some therapists may offer it under different funding categories or privately. There are also alternative therapies that focus on emotional and social development.
4. Stay Informed
   Keep in contact with your NDIS plan manager or support coordinator. They can help you stay up to date on changes and explore other available supports.
5. Talk to Your Child’s Therapist
   If your child is currently receiving play therapy, speak with their therapist. They can explain how any potential changes might affect your child’s care and suggest alternative therapies or funding pathways if needed.

What Can You Do?

If you’re concerned about the future of play therapy under the NDIS, here are a few steps you can take:

• Stay in the loop: Follow NDIS news and updates. If changes are announced, take the time to understand what they mean for your child and your family.
• Advocate: If play therapy is essential to your child’s well-being, speak up. Contact your local NDIS office, join advocacy groups, and share your experiences. The more voices are heard, the stronger the case for keeping play therapy funded.
• Explore other options: If restrictions are introduced, explore alternative therapies or funding streams. Many therapists provide a range of services that support similar outcomes.

Conclusion: No Need to Panic—But Stay Informed

While it’s natural to be concerned about the potential removal of play therapy from the NDIS, there’s no need to panic. The conversation is ongoing, and no final decisions have been made. Play therapy is a vital service for many children, and there is strong advocacy to keep it accessible.

If your child relies on the NDIS, now is a good time to talk with your plan manager, connect with your child’s therapist, and stay informed. By being proactive and continuing to advocate for the therapies that matter, we can help ensure that all children receive the support they need to thrive.

References

• National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). (2022). NDIS Price Guide and Support Catalogue 2022–2023.
• Landreth, G. L. (2012). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship (3rd ed.).
• Bratton, S. C., Ray, D. C., & Rhine, T. A. (2005). The Efficacy of Play Therapy with Children: A Meta-Analytic Review. International Journal of Play Therapy, 14(2), 73–87.
• Australian Psychological Society (APS). (2021). Supporting Children’s Mental Health in the NDIS: A Guide for Families.
• Association for Play Therapy (APT). (2022). The Importance of Play Therapy: Advocacy and Resources.
• NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission. (2020). Understanding NDIS Therapy Services and Supports.