Introduction
Choosing a therapy provider for a family member with a disability is one of the most consequential decisions a caregiver can make. This guide offers a set of practical questions and considerations to help you navigate that process with more confidence and clarity.
Before You Make Contact
Start by clarifying what type of support you are looking for. Speech therapy, occupational therapy, applied behaviour analysis, physiotherapy, and special education each require different qualifications. Knowing what you need helps you ask the right questions from the start.
Questions to Ask a Provider
When you speak with a potential provider, consider asking: What are your qualifications and where did you train? Are you affiliated with any professional body? How many clients do you currently work with who have a similar diagnosis? How will you measure and communicate progress? What does your cancellation and refund policy look like?
Red Flags to Watch For
Be cautious of providers who cannot clearly articulate their qualifications, who promise rapid or guaranteed results, who resist parental involvement in sessions, who charge significantly more or less than comparable services without explanation, or who discourage you from seeking a second opinion.
Your Rights as a Caregiver
You have the right to ask for credentials. You have the right to observe sessions or receive regular written progress updates. You have the right to end a professional relationship that is not working. You have the right to a clear breakdown of costs before committing. Asserting these rights is not confrontational — it is how good care is maintained.
Building a Support Network
No single provider will meet all of a person's needs. Try to build a small network of professionals, family advocates, and peer caregivers who can offer different perspectives. DICAF's events and community engagements are one way to start building those connections.