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Frequently Asked Questions
Absolute Care Therapy answers your frequently asked questions about Cognitive Stimulation Therapy.
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How do your assessments work and how much do they cost?We offer three convenient ways to complete your personalised CST assessment, so you can choose what works best for you. The fee includes pre-assessment review, clinical documentation, and liaison with relevant health professionals to ensure your therapy is tailored and well coordinated: 1. Clinic Assessment for Connect™ Program ️(50 minutes) $299 Visit our welcoming boutique therapy clinic in Melville for a one-on-one session. This is a great opportunity to see the space where the group sessions run, ask questions, and help us get to know your strengths, interests, and goals. This helps us tailor the program specifically for you. 2. Telehealth Assessment (50 minutes) $299 If visiting the clinic isn’t easy, you can complete your assessment via a secure video call from the comfort of your own home. The session covers the same personalised planning, so you’ll get tailored strategies and support no matter where you are. 3. Home Assessment (Subject to approval) $299 + travel For those who prefer a home visit, we offer an in-person assessment at your residence. Please note this option must be approved before booking, and a travel fee applies based on your location. If you decide to proceed with our home-based HomeConnect™ CST program, this assessment fee will be deducted from the overall program cost. Please note: As of 30 June 2025, Home Assessments will increase to $399 to reflect the significant time and preparation involved in delivering this personalised service. This assessment provides an opportunity to discuss your unique situation and explore how CST can support your loved one. You will receive clear recommendations and practical tips to promote cognitive wellbeing. Whilst many clients choose to access CST privately, we are able to offer this as a fully-funded service for eligible Home Care Package (HCP) and NDIS participants.
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Do people pay privately for the program?Yes, many families choose to pay privately. This is often due to current wait times to access Home Care Packages or NDIS funding and the limited funding available in our overstretched system. To support families opting for private payment, we offer a discounted rate when the full program cost is paid upfront. Cognitive Stimulation Therapy is most effective when started early in the dementia journey, so beginning the program - or even just introducing its principles - as soon as possible is ideal. You may also be eligible to claim a partial rebate for the physiotherapy component through your private health insurance. You can view our business details in the Insurance FAQ and are encouraged to contact your insurer directly to discuss.
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Can this program be funded by My Aged Care or NDIS?Yes, our programs can be fully funded through NDIS or Home Care Packages. NDIS: The program is funded under Capacity Building – Improved Daily Living. Home Care Packages: The program is funded under allied health services and generally incurs no out-of-pocket costs. Our pricing aligns with the current NDIS Price Guide, and invoices are issued fortnightly to support effective budget management. We’re also happy to discuss flexible payment plans if needed. Feel free to pass our details on to your coordinator - we’re more than happy to speak with them directly to explore how funding can be used to support your goals.
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CST Commitment & Alternative Options if Group Therapy Isn’t the Right FitWe understand that committing to a 7-week therapy program can feel like a big decision, especially if you're unsure whether it's the right fit. That’s why we want to offer you peace of mind. If, after attending the first two weeks, you feel the program isn’t the right fit, we’ll provide you with a Home CST program. This can be completed at home with family or staff, ensuring you continue to receive valuable support. Please note that the full program fee for the Connect program is required and any unused funds from your program fee will be applied to cover the Home CST program. We are committed to providing the right support for you, and we’re here to assist you every step of the way.
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Can I participate in the group sessions with my loved one?We find that our in-practice sessions work best when family members aren’t in the room. It gives people a chance to interact with new faces in a fresh setting, helping to build confidence. However, for the final session, we invite one family member to join. This allows your loved one to showcase what they’ve learned and gives you the opportunity to see the techniques in action, helping you to continue the practice at home
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How long will it take to see results?While everyone’s experience is different, many participants report significant improvement in mood after the first session, and families regularly report improvements in engagement, confidence and overall mood during the entire program course.
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What if my loved one can’t attend a session?If you need to miss a CST therapy session, we’ll provide you with a personalised Home CST session along with carefully prepared resources. These can be completed with family, friends, or staff, offering flexible and meaningful ways to continue engaging your thinking and communication. The beauty of the Home CST sessions is that they can be revisited again and again, allowing you to practice at your own pace and reinforce the progress you’ve made. The included resources are designed to be easy to use and supportive, helping you maintain connection and cognitive stimulation even when you can’t attend the group session in person.
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What if my loved one gets frustrated or becomes unsettled during the program?Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) is designed to be gentle, patient, and empowering. Our sessions are carefully tailored to match each participant’s pace and mood, ensuring they feel supported—not overwhelmed. We always have two staff members present during group programs. This allows us to provide individualised attention if any challenges arise. We do ask that a nominated person is available by phone during the session. If we feel a participant is unsettled or not enjoying themselves, we will contact you straight away so we can work together to provide the right support.
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Where do you provide services?Group Cognitive Stimulation Therapy is provided at our Melville clinic at: 527 Canning Hwy (corner Rome Road) Melville Individual Cognitive Stimulation Therapy is provided at home by your support team. We will home visit to complete an assessment, and again to deliver resources and provide training. We also also available for telehealth consultations for people who live outside of the Perth Metro region.
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