Skip to content

Heads up: TK Victorian Providers/Thrivingkidsvic.au is an independent, privately operated directory. Not affiliated with or endorsed by the Australian or state governments.

About

Support category

Parent & Family Support

Coaching, education and practical strategies for parents, carers and siblings.

Information

What parent & family support involves

For carers who want strategies and confidence rather than only child-focused therapy.

Supports are usually delivered as short blocks of sessions with clear goals, and often include coaching so parents and carers can practise strategies in everyday routines. Delivery may be in a clinic, at home, at kinder or school, in the community, or by telehealth.

When families commonly seek this support

  • Concerns raised at a maternal and child health check, kinder or school
  • Progress that seems different to other children of a similar age
  • Daily routines that are consistently difficult for the child or family
  • A referral from a GP, paediatrician or support coordinator

Questions worth asking a provider

  • What experience do you have with children of my child's age and needs?
  • How do you involve parents and carers between sessions?
  • What is your current wait time, and how is availability updated?
  • What payment or funding options do you accept?

Official sources

Disclaimer

TK Victorian Providers/Thrivingkidsvic.au is an independent platform associated with Qaswa.au. We are not a Victorian Government, Australian Government, NDIA or NDIS website, and we do not administer the Thriving Kids program.

About
Welcoming platypus mascot in a purple vest and green scarf
Published 4 October 2026Last reviewed 4 October 2026

Parent Support for Child Development

Parents and carers are often the people who know a child best. When developmental concerns arise, families may need more than a therapy appointment. They may need information, practical strategies, reassurance, peer connection and help navigating available services.

Parent support can provide that wider layer of assistance.

It may include structured parenting programs, individual guidance, peer groups, information sessions, family programs or connections to community services.

What Can Parent Support Include?

Depending on the organisation, parent support may involve:

Parent support is not necessarily a substitute for allied health or medical care. It can work alongside those services.

  • information about child development
  • practical parenting strategies
  • support for everyday routines
  • peer support groups
  • parenting education
  • family programs
  • supported playgroups
  • service navigation
  • transition support
  • connections to community resources

Who Can Benefit From Parent Support?

Parent support can be useful when families:

  • have questions about development
  • want practical strategies for home
  • are navigating multiple services
  • feel unsure about what support to seek
  • want to connect with other parents
  • are preparing for kindergarten or school
  • need help understanding available community services

Parent Support and Thriving Kids

The Australian Government says Thriving Kids will include information and resources about child development, practical connections, peer support, facilitated playgroups, parenting groups and family programs. Australian Government Thriving Kids

Victoria's current Thriving Kids information also describes parenting support and peer support as part of the program's family-centred approach. Victorian Government

The exact programs available depend on location and rollout stage.

What Makes Useful Parent Support?

Useful support should be:

Families should feel supported rather than judged.

  • practical
  • respectful
  • understandable
  • strengths-based
  • appropriate to the family's circumstances
  • culturally responsive
  • connected to real-life routines
  • clear about when specialist help is needed

For Referrers

Professionals can consider parent support when families need:

  • information
  • practical strategies
  • peer connection
  • help navigating services
  • support with everyday routines
  • connections to community programs

For Parent Support Providers

Explain:

  • who the program is for
  • age range
  • individual or group format
  • topics covered
  • location
  • online options
  • referral requirements
  • whether the program is free or paid
  • accessibility and language options

Finding Parent Support

Families can speak with their GP, maternal and child health nurse, kindergarten, school, allied health provider or community organisation about available parent support.

ThrivingKidsVIC.au can help families discover relevant organisations and providers. It does not determine government eligibility.

Parent Support in the Victorian Thriving Kids Context

Parent and family support is a central part of the Victorian Thriving Kids model. The Victorian Government says Thriving Kids will help parents and carers build knowledge, skills and confidence and may include parenting support, peer support and local community programs.

From 1 October 2026, Victoria also lists the Strengthening Parent Support Program among supports available through Thriving Kids. It includes facilitator-led and peer-led groups, parenting education, information sessions and individual support for eligible parents and carers.

Parent support is broader than therapy

A parent may be looking for:

  • practical strategies for everyday routines
  • information about development
  • peer connection
  • parenting education
  • support navigating services
  • family programs
  • help understanding what to do next

For providers

Parent-support organisations, allied health practices, community organisations and family services can make their listings more useful by clearly describing who they support, program format, age range, location, accessibility and referral pathway.

Related support

Explore related services

Common questions

Frequently asked questions

Official sources

Disclaimer

TK Victorian Providers/Thrivingkidsvic.au is an independent platform associated with Qaswa.au. We are not a Victorian Government, Australian Government, NDIA or NDIS website, and we do not administer the Thriving Kids program.

About

Discovery

Providers relevant to parent & family support

Independent Victorian providers offering services in this category. Availability and response data is shown where measured.

Family Relationships Institute Inc.

Verified information

Psychology

Early Childhood Development Support • Parent & Family Support • Social Work • Family Support Services

Family Relationships Institute Inc., trading as RelateWell, was founded in 1978 and is a not‑for‑profit community organisation delivering essential prevention and early intervention services across key transition points in the family lifecycle. Family and relationship services deliver the strongest outcomes for children by providing early, structured support that strengthens parental wellbeing, reduces conflict, and promotes secure, healthy family relationships. RelateWell’s services target the major stages of relationship formation, extension and separation, with a focus on strengthening relationships, preventing breakdown, and promoting wellbeing through counselling and psychoeducation. Our specialist mental health services provide structured, evidence‑based interventions tailored to the needs and complexities of adults, adolescents and children requiring targeted psychological support. RelateWell is a recognised leader in primary prevention, early intervention, treatment and recovery, working closely with key stakeholders to support community wellbeing during significant life events. We are committed to providing accessible, safe and inclusive services to all members of the community. RelateWell is a registered NDIS provider of Therapeutic Supports, delivering specialised mental health, counselling and therapeutic services to eligible NDIS participants. Our Family and Relationship Services (FaRS) are funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services (DSS) and have been Commonwealth‑funded since our inception in 1978. RelateWell is also a Commonwealth service provider of contracted mental health services. As a registered NDIS provider of Therapeutic Supports, RelateWell is committed to delivering high-quality, evidence-based services that support participants to improve wellbeing, build capacity and achieve their individual goals.

Coburg
Telehealth available
Ages 6-8 years, 9-12 years, 13+ years, 3-5 years
Response time not yet measured
Accepting enquiriesNDIS services offeredNDIS registeredPrivate payment acceptedMedicare rebate may apply

New listing · Availability updated recently · Profile 70% complete

Canopy Children's Therapy

Verified information

Capacity Building & Everyday Skills

Early Childhood Development Support • Parent & Family Support

Registered Play Therapist offering play therapy, counselling and family supports to children and families in Geelong and surrounds. Through my practice, Canopy Children's Therapy in Newtown, I work with children in a warm, welcoming space where they can be themselves and feel understood. My approach is child-centred, neuro-affirming, trauma-informed and strengths-based, and I work closely with parents and carers so the progress carries into home and school life. I support children with big feelings, separation anxiety, school refusal, social challenges, transitions and masking. I have a special interest in supporting highly sensitive girls and children who have experienced medical trauma or fear of medical procedures. Under our canopy, every child can thrive.

Clinic in Newtown
Telehealth available
Ages 3-5 years, 6-8 years, 9-12 years, 13+ years
Response time not yet measured
Short waitlistNDIS services offeredPrivate payment accepted

New listing · Availability updated recently · Profile 70% complete

Care For Your Mind

Verified information

Psychology

Developmental Assessments • Early Childhood Development Support • Parent & Family Support • Social Work • Family Support Services • Supported Playgroups & Group Programs • Capacity Building & Everyday Skills

Care For Your Mind is a private psychology and counselling clinic located in Central Victoria, with two convenient locations in Bendigo and Castlemaine. We provide specialised therapeutic support for a range of mental health challenges, including: Abuse (sexual, emotional, psychological, physical & neglect) Trauma Relationship breakdowns Family dysfunction Stress Anxiety Depression Grief and loss Sexuality and gender identity affirmation Problematic Sexualised Behaviours Sensory processing difficulties Whether you are seeking therapy in Bendigo or Castlemaine, we are here to support you to Care For Your Mind. Care For Your Mind is grounded in the belief that individuals truly engage and begin to experience significant change when they are seen, heard, validated, and understood. We utilise a whole-brain approach that emphasises relational, sensory, and emotional safety to ensure our clients feel supported. Our treatment focus is person-centered and evidence-based, recognising that the strength of the therapeutic relationship is crucial for lasting change. Our practice offers a variety of mental health services tailored to your unique needs, including: Individual counselling Couples and Family Therapy Art and Expressive Therapy Psychological Assessments Neuroaffirming Therapy EMDR therapy As trusted therapists in Bendigo and Castlemaine, we are committed to guiding you on your journey to well-being.

Bendigo
Telehealth available
Ages 3-5 years, 6-8 years, 9-12 years, 13+ years
Response time not yet measured
Short waitlistNDIS services offeredPrivate payment acceptedMedicare rebate may apply

New listing · Availability updated recently · Profile 70% complete

Illustrative psychology therapy session with a child, featured by Dr Grace Hancock - Clinical Psychology & Autism Support

Dr Grace Hancock - Clinical Psychology & Autism Support

Verified information

Psychology

Developmental Assessments • Early Childhood Development Support • Parent & Family Support • Family Support Services • Supported Playgroups & Group Programs • Capacity Building & Everyday Skills

Dr Grace Hancock is a clinical psychologist with over 10 years experience supporting children, teens, and their families. Dr Hancock provides a range of clinical psychology services, with particular experience in autism, ADHD and other neurodevelopmental differences. Services are neuro-affirming, evidence-based and focused on helping young people and their families better understand their individual strengths, needs and ways of functioning. She also focuses on balancing acceptance of differences while still working towards progress and growth. Services include comprehensive developmental and psychological assessments (including autism, ADHD, cognitive (IQ) and adaptive functioning), individual and parent-focused psychology support, and small peer group programs. Support may focus on emotional regulation and wellbeing, anxiety, executive functioning, social understanding and connection, everyday independence, and building a young person’s understanding of their own neurotype. The practice also works collaboratively with parents, schools and other professionals to help translate this understanding into practical strategies and supports across home, school and community settings.

Williamstown North
Telehealth available
Ages 0-2 years, 3-5 years, 6-8 years, 9-12 years, 13+ years
Response time not yet measured
Accepting enquiriesNDIS services offeredPrivate payment acceptedMedicare rebate may apply

New listing · Availability updated recently · Profile 70% complete

Alloy Health

Verified information

Early Childhood Development Support

Speech Pathology • Psychology • Developmental Assessments • Parent & Family Support • Behaviour Support • Capacity Building & Everyday Skills

Alloy Health is a multidisciplinary allied health practice providing comprehensive assessment, evidence based therapy and consultation for children, adolescents and young adults. Our team works collaboratively with individuals, families, schools and other professionals to develop a clear understanding of each person’s strengths and support needs, and to translate clinical knowledge into practical recommendations that promote meaningful participation at home, in education and within the community.

Niddrie
Telehealth available
Ages 0-2 years, 3-5 years, 6-8 years, 9-12 years, 13+ years
Response time not yet measured
Accepting enquiriesNDIS services offeredNDIS registeredPrivate payment acceptedMedicare rebate may apply

New listing · Availability updated recently · Profile 70% complete

CREATIVE INSIGHTS PSYCHOLOGY

Psychology

Behaviour Support • Parent & Family Support

I am a Registered Psychologist with over 27 years of experience, including 19 years in private practice. I provide a warm, supportive and non-judgemental space for children aged 9 years and over, supporting children with developmental delays, autism, AHDH, anxiety, and emotional or behavioural difficulties. My approach is collaborative and tailored to each child’s needs, incorporating evidence-based behavioural interventions, play-based and age-appropriate CBT strategies, emotional regulation skills, mindfulness and supportive therapy, with parents and carers involved where appropriate. I offer telehealth Australia-wide in English and Vietnamese, with fully bulk-billed appointments for eligible clients with a valid mental health care plan.

INNER WESTERN & AUSTRALIA WIDE · Melbourne
Telehealth available
Ages 9-12 years, 13+ years
Response time not yet measured
Accepting enquiriesPrivate payment acceptedMedicare rebate may applyNDIS services offered

New listing · Availability updated recently · Profile 70% complete

Illustrative occupational therapy exercise with a child using a resistance band, featured by Occupational Therapy Group

Occupational Therapy Group

Verified information

Occupational Therapy

Speech Pathology • Developmental Assessments • Early Childhood Development Support • Parent & Family Support • Family Support Services • Supported Playgroups & Group Programs • Assistive Technology • Capacity Building & Everyday Skills • Help Navigating Support Pathways

At The OT Group, our paediatric allied health team delivers integrated Occupational Therapy (OT) and Speech Pathology services across Greater Melbourne, Bendigo, and regional Victoria. We provide goal-directed, evidence-based, and neuroaffirming supports across home, clinic, early learning centre, and school environments to build capacity and empower children to achieve independence and active participation. We focus on helping children develop the skills they need to grow into functional, independent adults. We support children to address challenges associated with sensory, motor, social and emotional development which can impact a child's ability to perform everyday tasks, engage in meaningful activities and perform at school. Our Occupational Therapists support children to develop the functional skills required for everyday activities, play, and learning: Fine & Gross Motor Skills: Strengthening hand function, dexterity, posture, coordination, handwriting, and physical play skills. Sensory Processing & Self-Regulation: Supporting sensory modulation and emotional regulation so children can comfortably engage and focus in various environments. Independence & Daily Living Skills: Developing self-care routines, personal independence, and practical life skills. Executive Functioning & School Readiness: Building organisation, planning, attention, task completion, and social participation skills Our Speech Pathologists evaluate and support all facets of communication, literacy, and mealtime safety: Early Intervention & Language Development: Assessing and treating expressive, receptive, and pragmatic language skills in early childhood and school-aged children. Speech Sound & Articulation: Improving speech clarity, articulation, phonological sound production, and fluency. Augmentative & Alternative Communication (AAC): Assessing, prescribing, and trialling low-tech and high-tech AAC devices using a total communication and neuroaffirming approach. Literacy & Phonics Support: Conducting phonological awareness and literacy assessments to deliver evidence-based reading, writing, and spelling instruction. Paediatric Feeding & Swallowing: Evaluating oral motor mechanics, drinking, and mealtime safety to provide interventions for eating and swallowing challenges.

Clinics in Bendigo
Telehealth available
Ages 0-2 years, 3-5 years, 6-8 years, 9-12 years, 13+ years
Response time not yet measured
Accepting enquiriesNDIS services offeredNDIS registeredPrivate payment acceptedMedicare rebate may apply

New listing · Availability updated recently · Profile 70% complete

Illustrative music therapy image of an acoustic guitar being played, featured by Music Therapy Service

Music Therapy Service

Verified information

Music Therapy

Early Childhood Development Support • Parent & Family Support • Supported Playgroups & Group Programs • Capacity Building & Everyday Skills

Music Therapy Service (MTS) was founded in 2016 by Laurel Parkinson to provide high-quality care through music therapy to communities across Melbourne’s western suburbs.

Point Cook
Telehealth available
Ages 0-2 years, 3-5 years, 6-8 years, 9-12 years, 13+ years
Response time not yet measured
Accepting enquiriesNDIS services offeredPrivate payment accepted

New listing · Availability updated recently · Profile 70% complete

SdW Therapy Service

Verified information

Occupational Therapy

Capacity Building & Everyday Skills • Early Childhood Development Support • Assistive Technology • Family Support Services • Parent & Family Support • Developmental Assessments

At SdW Therapy Services, therapy is never a battle. We believe real progress starts with connection—not forcing a child to sit still, behave, or perform. When your child feels safe, understood, and regulated, that's when the magic happens! Through play and positive relationships, we help kids build essential skills like emotional regulation, confidence, and active engagement. Most importantly, we work right alongside you. You're an essential part of the journey, and we're here to make sure you feel supported, confident, and empowered every step of the way.

Melton
In person only
Ages 0-2 years, 3-5 years, 6-8 years, 9-12 years
Response time not yet measured
Accepting enquiriesNDIS services offeredPrivate payment acceptedMedicare rebate may apply

New listing · Availability updated recently · Profile 70% complete

The Psych Approach Clinic

Verified information

Psychology

Developmental Assessments • Early Childhood Development Support • Parent & Family Support • Family Support Services • Supported Playgroups & Group Programs • Capacity Building & Everyday Skills

The Psych Approach Clinic | Broadmeadows The Psych Approach Clinic provides warm, neuroaffirming and culturally responsive psychological support for children and families. We support young children experiencing developmental differences, autism, emotional regulation difficulties, ADHD, anxiety, behavioural challenges and other social-emotional needs. Our approach is family-centred and evidence-based, incorporating play and art-based approaches, CBT, ACT, parent support and skills-based interventions. We work collaboratively with families and other professionals to help children build confidence, emotional skills and meaningful participation at home, school and in the community. We are committed to making psychological support accessible and culturally safe for diverse families across Melbourne’s northern suburbs.

Broadmeadows
In person only
Ages 0-2 years, 3-5 years, 6-8 years, 9-12 years, 13+ years
Response time not yet measured
Accepting enquiriesNDIS services offeredPrivate payment acceptedMedicare rebate may apply

New listing · Availability updated recently · Profile 70% complete

Are you a Victorian allied health or child-development provider?

Help families and referrers discover your service on Thriving Kids VIC. Add your business profile to increase visibility across relevant support searches and local discovery pages.

Add Your Business