Start your care
journey with someone
who understands.

Table of Contents

JOIN OUR NEWSLETTER & GET FREE UPDATES

Core Essentials

Affective Care Instrument
Affective Care New Branded Post
Affective Care AED
Affective Care Image

In the tapestry of healthcare and support, mental health services weave a critical thread, especially for individuals navigating life with disabilities. Under the canopy of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), accessing tailored mental health support isn’t just a necessity; it’s a right. However, understanding how to traverse these pathways can sometimes feel like deciphering a cryptic puzzle. Enter Affective Care, your guiding light in this complex landscape. 

Summary

This article delves into the vital role of mental health support within the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), particularly highlighting the access pathways to psychological services for participants. It explores the instrumental role of Affective Care in enhancing this journey for individuals living with disabilities who are experiencing behavioural challenges. By the end, you’ll understand how Affective Care’s bespoke psychology and care services can significantly uplift your wellbeing or that of your loved ones. 

Affective Care’s bespoke psychology and care services can significantly uplift your wellbeing or that of your loved ones. 

The Importance of Mental Health Support in the NDIS 

Mental health is a pivotal aspect of overall wellbeing, and for those living with disabilities, the stakes are even higher. The NDIS recognises this by incorporating psychological services into its funded supports, ensuring participants can access the mental health care they need without the financial strain. Whether it’s dealing with anxiety, depression, or other psychological conditions, the NDIS framework is designed to support a diverse range of mental health needs. 

 

How to Access Psychological Services through the NDIS 

Accessing mental health services through the NDIS involves several steps, but fear not—it’s less complicated than assembling furniture from a certain Swedish store (and with fewer leftover screws!). Here’s a simplified guide: 

 

    • Plan Assessment: Your journey begins with creating an NDIS plan that includes funding for psychological services. This is where stating your needs clearly and comprehensively can make all the difference. 
    • Finding a Provider: Once your plan is approved, you can choose a provider that suits your needs. Affective Care, with their specialised focus on mental health for those with disabilities, can be a match made in heaven—or at least a very empathetic consultancy room. 
    • Setting Goals: Work with your provider to set realistic and meaningful mental health goals. Whether it’s improving daily functioning or managing specific symptoms, your goals should guide the therapy process. 
    • Ongoing Support: Regular reviews and open communication with your provider will help tweak your plan and ensure it’s always aligned with your evolving needs. 

 

Affective Care: Your Partner in Mental Health 

At Affective Care, we understand that each individual’s experience with disability is unique, and so are their mental health needs. Our team of skilled psychologists and therapists are not just professionals; they’re passionate advocates for your wellbeing. We provide tailored psychological assessments and therapies designed to empower you, enhance your resilience, and improve your quality of life. 

Beyond Therapy: Comprehensive Care Supports 

But our commitment doesn’t end with therapy. Affective Care also offers extensive care supports for individuals experiencing behavioural issues. Our services are designed to integrate seamlessly with your daily life, ensuring that you receive holistic support that transcends traditional therapy sessions. 

 

Why Choose Affective Care? 

    • Specialised Expertise: Our focus on disabilities and mental health means we’re equipped to handle complex needs with empathy and precision. 
    • Personalised Service: At Affective Care, you’re not just a number. We pride ourselves on building personal connections and understanding your unique story. 
    • Holistic Approach: From psychological services to behavioural support, our comprehensive approach ensures all aspects of your wellbeing are addressed. 

 

Promoting Mental Health with Affective Care 

Ready to take the next step towards mental wellness? Visit us at Affective Care to learn more about our services and how we can help you or your loved one live a fuller, more vibrant life with the support of the NDIS. r

Start your care
journey with someone
who understands.

FAQ

Eligibility for NDIS support typically depends on how your disability affects your daily life. For mental health services, it’s essential to demonstrate how your psychological condition impacts your functionality. 

Absolutely! Changing providers is your right under the NDIS. If you feel that Affective Care could better meet your needs, you can make the switch at any time. 

We offer a range of therapies tailored to meet individual needs, including cognitive behavioural therapy, mindfulness practices, and more, all designed to support mental health in a disability context. ow an

JOIN OUR NEWSLETTER & GET FREE UPDATES

Core Essentials

Affective Care Instrument
Affective Care New Branded Post
Affective Care AED

Why Affective Care?

Trusted Partner in Your Life Journey

Affective Care Why To Choose Us Image

Care with
Heart

Affective Care offers more than services. We bring genuine compassion and empathy to your NDIS and aged care journey, supporting your goals with kindness, respect and personalised care everyday.

Why Choose Us Affective Care BG

Empowering Your Journey

Your goals matter. Affective Care partners with you to build confidence, independence, and joy in your daily life through tailored NDIS and aged care support, always delivered with heart.

Affective Care Why To Choose Us

Support with
Trust

Trust matters in care. That's why our experienced, compassionate team puts your wellbeing first. Delivering reliable, personalised NDIS and aged care support that makes a real difference every day.

Affective Care Why To Choose Us

Together We
Thrive

At Affective Care, we walk beside ypour goals anmd live life ypour way. Our care empowers people living with disability and older Australians to thrive with confidence.

You May Like

NDIS support coordination vs support connection vs lac

Navigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can feel confusing, especially when different roles appear to overlap. Many participants and families ask the same question: What is the difference between Support Coordination, Support Connection, and a Local Area Coordinator (LAC)? Understanding NDIS Support Coordination vs Support Connection vs LAC is important because each role supports […]

......
Autism in Women, common signs, diagnosis and why is it missed

 Autism in women is often misunderstood, under-recognised, and diagnosed later than autism in men. For many years, research and diagnostic criteria were based largely on how autism presents in boys. As a result, many girls and women whose experiences look different may go undiagnosed for years or even decades.  Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects communication, […]

......
Good jobs for people with autism in australia

Good jobs for people living with autism Australia are not about finding one “perfect” career; they’re about matching strengths, work environment, and the right supports.   Many autistic adults prefer roles with clear expectations, predictable routines, manageable sensory input, or flexible work options.   In Australia, employment help may be available through different pathways, including Disability Employment Services (DES), JobAccess for […]

......
Autism and sign language in Australia

When families search for autism and sign language in Australia, they are usually looking for practical, evidence-informed ways to support communication in everyday life.   Questions about Key Word Sign, Auslan, AAC devices, and NDIS communication supports are common, especially for parents wanting clear guidance tailored to Australian settings.  In Australia, “sign language for autism” often refers to Key Word Sign, […]

......
Local Business

We would truly appreciate your vote

We’ve been nominated for
the Local Business Awards!

Your support means everything

Jessica Boumelhem

Jessica Boumelhem

Advanced Behaviour Support Practitioner | PBS Manager

NDIS-aligned | Systems-aware | Values-led

Jessica supports individuals and teams through:

Jessica brings over two decades of experience as an educator and a strong foundation in psychology to her role as an Advanced Behaviour Support Practitioner. As PBS Team Manager, she leads with clarity and accountability, ensuring practice aligns with both NDIS standards and ethical, person-centred care.

Her approach is holistic and collaborative, taking into account sensory, environmental, emotional, and relational factors that influence behaviour. Jessica works closely with individuals, families, and support teams to ensure behaviour support plans reflect personal values, lived experience, and real-world contexts.

Jessica’s leadership supports consistency, quality, and confidence across multidisciplinary teams. Her work ensures behaviour support is not just compliant, but compassionate, practical, and genuinely empowering.

Chady Aoun

Chady Aoun

Senior Psychologist and Behaviour Support Practitioner

Multidisciplinary | Assessment-driven | Governance-focused

Chady supports individuals through:

Chady is a highly experienced psychologist whose work spans both public and private sectors. At Affective Care, he delivers integrated behavioural and psychological services, supporting clients of all ages through assessment, therapy, and tailored intervention.

Known for his leadership within multidisciplinary teams, Chady brings structure, insight, and consistency to complex presentations. His expertise includes early intervention, rehabilitation, and complex case management, with a strong commitment to clinical governance and quality care.

Chady’s work is grounded in evidence-based practice and collaborative problem-solving. He supports individuals, families, and teams to navigate complexity with clarity, ensuring care remains ethical, coordinated, and effective.

Miray El-Hachem

Miray El-Hachem

Positive Behaviour Therapist & Registered Counsellor (ACA Level 2)

Holistic | Education-informed | Adolescent-focused

Miray supports individuals through:

Miray brings over 20 years of experience in education into her clinical work as a Positive Behaviour Therapist and Registered Counsellor. Her practice integrates behavioural science with a deep understanding of human development, particularly during adolescence.

She takes a holistic approach, blending structure with empathy to support individuals through behavioural challenges. Miray’s work is grounded in understanding the whole person—their environment, relationships, and emotional world.

Through compassion and insight, Miray supports individuals to develop self-awareness, regulation, and confidence. Her practice reflects a balance of science and humanity, creating space for growth that feels both supported and respectful.

Anabell Beattie-Bowers

Anabell Beattie-Bowers

Registered Psychologist

Relational | Empowerment-focused | Trauma-aware

Anabelle supports children and adults through:

Anabelle works alongside individuals with warmth, curiosity, and a deep respect for each person’s inner world. As a psychologist, she supports both children and adults to strengthen emotional awareness, build resilience, and develop healthier relationships with themselves and others.

Her therapeutic style is tailored and responsive, integrating approaches such as CBT, DBT, and Circle of Security to meet the unique needs of each client. Anabelle places strong emphasis on empowerment—helping people understand their patterns, reconnect with their values, and develop tools that support lasting change.

Anabelle’s work is grounded in safety, collaboration, and trust. She believes therapy is not about fixing people, but about creating space for insight, growth, and meaningful connection—supporting individuals to move forward with greater confidence and emotional clarity.

Brandon Boumelhem

Brandon Boumelhem

Occupational Therapist

Functional independence | Strengths-based | NDIS-focused

Brandon supports individuals through:

Brandon’s work centres on helping people build skills that translate into real, everyday independence. As an Occupational Therapist, he partners with individuals, families, and carers to identify what matters most in daily life and then builds practical pathways toward those goals.

His approach is client-centred and evidence-based, grounded in collaboration and respect for each person’s strengths, environment, and pace. Brandon understands that meaningful outcomes are rarely achieved in isolation, so he works closely with support networks to ensure strategies are realistic, sustainable, and supportive of long-term participation.

Through the NDIS, Brandon supports people to increase autonomy, confidence, and engagement in daily routines. His work is guided by a belief that independence is not about doing everything alone—it’s about having the right supports, skills, and systems in place to live with choice and dignity.

Natalie Soto

Natalie Soto

Registered Psychologist | PBS

Bilingual | Assessment-focused | Person-centred

Natalie supports children and adults through:

Natalie is a bilingual psychologist (English/Spanish) with extensive experience supporting individuals across the lifespan. Her work spans assessment and therapy, with a particular interest in forensic psychology and complex presentations.

She combines evidence-based practice with creativity and flexibility, tailoring interventions to each person’s needs, culture, and goals. Natalie’s approach is grounded in collaboration, ensuring clients feel understood, supported, and actively involved in their care.

Through thoughtful assessment and therapeutic intervention, Natalie supports individuals to build insight, resilience, and meaningful change.

Edric Limbo

Edric Limbo

Speech-Language Pathologist

Rehabilitation-focused | Goal-driven | Community-oriented

Edric supports individuals through:

Edric’s practice is centred on helping people reconnect—both with their communication and with their communities. Working with adults and children, he has a strong interest in stroke rehabilitation and supporting individuals through the process of rebuilding communication skills.

His approach is practical and goal-focused, ensuring therapy remains relevant to everyday life. Edric collaborates closely with clients and families to identify meaningful outcomes and develop strategies that support confidence, participation, and independence.

Edric finds deep fulfilment in witnessing people regain their voice and reconnect with others. His work is guided by respect, patience, and a belief in each person’s capacity for recovery and growth.

Heather Pinel

Heather Pinel

Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner & Registered Counsellor

Trauma-informed | Neuroscience-integrated | Relational

Heather supports individuals through:

Heather is an accomplished Behaviour Support Practitioner with over 20 years of experience supporting children and families. Her work integrates neuroscience, psychological theory, and trauma-informed practice to address complex presentations including attachment trauma, neurodevelopmental differences, and psychosocial disability.

Heather’s approach is collaborative and whole-person focused, ensuring behaviour support plans reflect both evidence and lived experience. She works closely with families and support networks to build strategies that enhance emotional wellbeing, safety, and functional independence.

Her commitment to holistic care ensures individuals receive support that honours identity, relationships, and long-term quality of life.

Charbel Azzi

Charbel Azzi

Speech-Language Pathologist

Communication | Connection | Technology-enhanced

Charbel supports children and adults through:

Charbel’s work is driven by a passion for helping people connect more fully with the world around them. As a Speech-Language Pathologist, he supports both paediatric and adult clients to strengthen communication, social interaction, and participation in daily life.

Since 2022, Charbel has worked across diverse settings, tailoring therapy to each person’s goals, strengths, and communication style. He has a particular interest in integrating technology into therapy, using innovative tools to enhance engagement and outcomes.

Charbel brings curiosity and creativity into his practice, believing communication is not just about words, but about connection, confidence, and belonging. His approach supports individuals to express themselves more clearly and engage meaningfully with others across home, school, work, and community environments.

Nisreen El-Saidi

Nisreen El-Saidi

Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner

Grace Boutros

Grace Boutros

Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner

Shayma Sadek

Shayma Sadek

Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner

Ali Bazzi

Ali Bazzi

Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner

Areeba Chaudhry

Areeba Chaudhry

Casual Allied Health Assistant

Joana Suh

Joana Suh

Paediatric Occupational Therapist

Neurodiversity-affirming | Strengths-based | Mental health-focused

Joana supports children, adolescents, and adults through:

Joana is a Senior Occupational Therapist with a strong commitment to neurodiversity-affirming practice. She works with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing complex emotional and behavioural needs, including bipolar affective disorder and other mental health conditions.

Her experience spans a range of developmental and neurodevelopmental presentations, including autism, ADHD, and Down syndrome. Joana’s clinical focus includes building fine motor, cognitive, sensory, and emotional regulation skills to support participation in everyday life.

Joana is particularly passionate about peer-mediated, client-centred, and strengths-based approaches. Her work supports individuals of all ages to increase social inclusion, functional independence, and overall quality of life.

Rita Dagher

Rita Dagher

Psychologist | Managing Director – Affective Care & Affective Health Services

Humanistic | Systems-led | Clinically grounded

Rita supports individuals, families, and communities through:

Rita works at the intersection of psychology, leadership, and purpose-driven care. As a psychologist and Managing Director, she brings both clinical depth and strategic clarity to every layer of service delivery at Affective Care and Affective Health Services. Her work is grounded in the belief that systems should adapt to people—not the other way around.

With a strong clinical foundation and a humanistic leadership style, Rita ensures that psychological therapy, allied health, and in-home supports remain emotionally intelligent, ethical, and genuinely person-centred. She leads teams with integrity, cultivating cultures of safety, reflection, and excellence so that practitioners can deliver their best work and clients can experience care that feels respectful and empowering.

Rita’s approach bridges therapeutic insight with organisational vision. She understands that sustainable outcomes require both skilled clinicians and well-designed systems. Through thoughtful leadership and clinical oversight, she supports services that respond to complexity with compassion, accountability, and innovation—creating meaningful, long-term impact for individuals, families, and the broader community.