What Happens Next
Thank you for reaching out to Thrive Feeding Clinic. Here’s what to expect once you’ve submitted your New Client Enquiry Form.
1. We Review Your Enquiry
Our admin team will look over the information you’ve provided and determine the most appropriate next steps. We’ll contact you as soon as possible to discuss:
- appointment options
- clinician availability
- fees and funding
- what to expect at your first session
2. Your First Appointment
Your initial appointment focuses on understanding your feeding or swallowing concerns, your goals, and relevant medical or developmental history. Depending on age and needs, this may include:
- discussion with you or your family
- observation of feeding or mealtime patterns
- oral‑motor or swallowing assessment
- review of reports or medical information
After the assessment, your clinician will outline recommended next steps, which may include therapy, strategies, referrals or a written report.
3. Fees & Funding
Standard Therapy Rate
Our standard fee for therapy sessions is $193.99 per hour.
Assessment Fees
Assessment fees vary depending on the type of assessment and the time required. Your clinician will discuss the expected structure and duration before booking.
Funding Options
We accept:
- Private paying clients
- Medicare EPC/CDMP (rebate of $61.80 per session unless safety net reached)
- NDIS (NDIA-managed, self‑managed and plan‑managed)
- Private health insurance (depending on your cover)
If you’re unsure which option applies to you, our admin team can help.
4. Forms You’ll Need (after your appointment is confirmed)
Once your appointment is scheduled, we’ll send you the forms you need to complete before your first session. These usually include:
- New Client Information Form
- Consent Form
- Any relevant medical or therapy reports (if not already provided in your original enquiry)
5. Who We See
We support:
- infants with breastfeeding or early feeding needs
- children with feeding, sensory or oral‑motor challenges
- adults with swallowing or mealtime difficulties
- older adults with dysphagia or age‑related feeding changes
- families needing multidisciplinary feeding support
If you’re unsure whether we’re the right fit, reach out — we’re happy to guide you.
6. Location & Parking
We are located at:
Level 3, Sky Central West, 28-38 Smart Street, Charlestown NSW 2290
Parking is available nearby, and our clinic is accessible for prams, wheelchairs and mobility aids.
7. Key Policies
A quick overview of our most important policies. Full details are available on our Policies page.
Cancellation Policy
We require notice if you need to cancel or reschedule. Late cancellations or missed appointments may incur a fee.
Communication Policy
We aim to respond to messages within a reasonable timeframe. Clinical questions may be addressed during appointments.
Consent & Privacy
We follow strict privacy and confidentiality standards. Your information is stored securely and used only for clinical purposes.
8. Preparing for Your Appointment
To help your session run smoothly:
- bring any relevant reports or referrals
- bring feeding equipment you normally use (bottles, utensils, cups, etc.)
- bring a small selection of familiar and unfamiliar foods (if appropriate)
- arrive a few minutes early to settle in
If you’re attending with a child, feel free to bring comfort items or anything that helps them feel safe.
Questions?
We’re here to help.
If you’re unsure about booking, funding, forms or what to expect, contact our admin team anytime.
New Clients — Mini FAQ
No. You can book directly. If you have a GP referral (EPC/CDMP), bring it along so we can apply the Medicare rebate.
Initial assessments vary depending on age and needs. Your clinician will let you know the expected structure when booking
Yes. Reports are optional and charged at our standard hourly rate. Your clinician will discuss whether a report is recommended.
Any relevant reports, feeding equipment you normally use, and a small selection of familiar foods (if appropriate).
Yes — we see self‑managed and plan‑managed NDIS participants.
Absolutely. We encourage parents, carers and support people to attend.
