My approach

Karenza primarily works with autistic adults and teenagers, offering her services exclusively through telehealth.

Karenza’s approach is influenced by Ross Greene, Russ Harris, Kristen Neff, Stuart Shanker, Naomi Fisher, Mona Delahooke, the Social Model of Disability and the Neurodiversity-Affirming Movement.

Functional Capacity Assessments

Telehealth Functional Capacity Assessments through a neurodiversity affirming lens

Karenza will assess all aspects of daily life, including what’s going well and what’s difficult. She is able to offer a comprehensive overview through interview, standardised assessment and review of relevant reports and letters. You will be provided with a comprehensive and detailed report including recommendations for ongoing support.

The reports have a neurodiversity and gender affirming lens as they primarily use: identity first language (or language you prefer), chosen names/pronouns and offer a comprehensive list of neurodiversity-affirming therapy recommendations. Choice of standardised assessment is a collaborative process with informed consent.

Telehealth is available nationally.

Karenza has provided training to therapy teams on conducting best-practice functional capacity assessments.

Note: Karenza is a mental health occupational therapist and as such doesn’t offer assessment for mobility devices/aids or more complex environmental/home modifications.

Mini NDIS Access Assessments

Karenza offers mini NDIS Access Assessments to support autistic people in applying for the NDIS. These assessments provide clear, targeted evidence around functional impact, which is a key part of meeting NDIS eligibility criteria. A diagnosis on its own is often not sufficient for NDIS access. By pairing your diagnosis report with a NDIS Access Assessment, your application is more likely to meet the necessary requirements.

A basic assessment is $484.98.

Please note that Medicare rebates do not apply to this service.

Work Assessments

Workplace Functioning and Support Assessments

Telehealth assessment

Karenza offers workplace assessments for autistic people seeking support to sustain meaningful participation in work. These assessments explore strengths, difficulties, and support needs within the current work role and environment. The approach is holistic and affirming, with a deep understanding of the autistic neurotype. It recognises the impact of sensory needs, executive functioning, emotional regulation, and systemic/environmental barriers.

Each assessment includes a collaborative interview, with optional standardised assessments if required. You will receive a detailed report with practical, personalised recommendations for workplace accommodations and supports.

Telehealth is available nationally.

Therapy

Telehealth mental health occupational therapy (adults/teens)

Clinical areas of interest include:

  • Autistic/ADHD identity

  • Autistic burnout

  • Emotional regulation and mental health support – including generalised anxiety, social anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, depression, psychosis

  • Deep understanding and experience with PDA (demand avoidance)

  • Support for neurodivergent families

  • School accommodations and advocacy – including support with school can’t, bullying, and homeschooling

  • Chronic illness

  • Sleep – Karenza offers specialised holistic assessment and support

  • Energy and fatigue management

  • Sensory needs and accommodations

  • Self-care and leisure

  • Work and study support

Note: While telehealth can offer flexibility and convenience, it may not be suitable for everyone. It's important to ensure that telehealth aligns with your preferences and needs for the best possible outcomes.

Sleep Support

Specialised holistic assessment and support

Karenza offers sleep support for autistic teens and adults. This support is holistic, highly individualised, and recognises sleep as a complex interaction between body, mind, and environment.

Good sleep depends on many factors - including our health, daily routines and activities, thermal comfort, the bedroom environment, sensory supports, mental health, sleep position and movement. We can review these areas to understand what’s helping sleep and where there may be barriers or unmet needs.

Fees

Karenza works with privately funded and NDIS clients. Clients who have NDIS packages may use their funding to cover the fees for services only if their package is self-managed or plan-managed.

Session Fees: $193.99 per hour.

Functional Capacity Assessment/ Work Assessment Fees: Please contact info@karenzaharding.com.au for additional information.