Your first physiotherapy session is mostly a conversation. Your physiotherapist will want to understand what matters to you, how you move day to day, and what you would like to be able to do more easily. From there, the two of you agree on goals and a plan. Nothing is decided without you, and you can ask questions, take a break or bring someone with you at any point.
This guide walks through what usually happens, what to bring, and the questions worth asking, so you can walk in knowing what to expect.
Before your first session
Most of the preparation happens before you arrive. When you book, you will usually be asked for some basic details: your contact information, how your NDIS plan is managed, and a little about why you are looking for physiotherapy.
You may also be offered a service agreement. This is a written agreement between you and your provider that sets out what supports will be delivered, how and when. The NDIS explains what a service agreement should cover on its page about making a service agreement. It is worth reading before you sign, and you can ask for anything you do not understand to be explained.
Whether physiotherapy is part of your NDIS plan, and how it can be used, depends on your individual plan. If you are unsure, the NDIS has information on using your plan, and your planner or support coordinator can help you check.
It can also help to decide where you would like the session to happen. Some people prefer a clinic. Others find it easier, or more useful, to be seen at home, where a physiotherapist can see the spaces and routines that matter in daily life.
What happens during the session
Every physiotherapist works a little differently, and a first session is shaped around the person in front of them. Most first sessions include the same few parts.
Talking about you and your goals
The session usually starts with a conversation. Your physiotherapist will ask about your health history, any conditions or injuries, the supports you already have, and how you get around at home and in the community.
Most importantly, they will ask what you want to achieve. Goals are yours to set. They might be about walking a certain distance, getting in and out of a car more easily, feeling steadier on your feet, joining in a sport or activity, or keeping up with your children. There are no wrong answers, and it is fine if you are not sure yet. Working that out together is part of the first session.
Looking at how you move
Next, your physiotherapist may ask you to do some simple movements so they can understand your strength, balance, flexibility and how you move through everyday tasks. What they ask will depend on your goals and what is comfortable for you.
You are always in control of this part. If something is painful, tiring or uncomfortable, say so. You can pause, skip a movement or stop altogether. A good physiotherapist will check in with you as you go and explain why they are asking you to do each thing.
Agreeing on a plan
Once your physiotherapist has a clearer picture, they will talk you through what they noticed and what they suggest. Together you can agree on:
- the goals you want to work towards
- the kinds of activities or exercises that might help
- how often you would like to have sessions, and where
- what you might practise between sessions, if you want to
Physiotherapy approaches are based on evidence about what tends to help people build strength, movement and confidence, but everyone responds differently. Progress is something you and your physiotherapist review together over time, rather than a fixed promise at the start.
Your first steps
Some people leave the first session with a few simple exercises to try at home. Others spend most of the first session on the conversation and assessment, and start the hands-on work next time. Either is normal.
What to bring
You do not need to prepare much, but a few things can make the session more useful:
- Your NDIS plan, or at least a note of the goals in it, so your physiotherapist can understand how physiotherapy fits with the rest of your supports
- Any relevant reports or letters from doctors, specialists or other therapists
- A list of any medications you take
- Comfortable clothing and footwear that you can move in easily
- Any mobility aids or equipment you usually use, such as a walking frame, splints or orthotics
- A support person, if you would like one. Family members, carers or support workers are welcome
Questions you might want to ask
A first session is also your chance to find out whether a physiotherapist is the right fit for you. You might want to ask:
- What experience do you have working with people with similar goals to mine?
- Where can sessions happen: at home, in a clinic, or somewhere else?
- How will we know if what we are doing is helping?
- What can I do between sessions?
- How will you communicate with me, my family or my other supports?
- How do I change or cancel an appointment?
It is always your choice who supports you. If a provider does not feel like the right fit, you can choose someone else.
After your first session
After the first session, your physiotherapist may write up your goals and plan so everyone is clear on what you agreed. Future sessions build on that starting point. As you go, you can review your goals together, change them as your needs change, and decide how often you want to keep coming.
If you would like to know how Care For Welfare delivers physiotherapy, including where sessions can take place, you can read more about our NDIS physiotherapy services. If you have questions before booking, you are welcome to get in touch with our team.
General information only. Not personal advice. Speak with your NDIS planner, support coordinator, or allied health provider for advice specific to your situation.
