What Is a Functional Capacity Assessment?
A functional capacity assessment (FCA) is a structured evaluation that looks at how your child completes everyday tasks.
Key Areas Assessed
- Communication
- Social interaction
- Emotional regulation
- Daily living activities (e.g., dressing, eating, hygiene)
- Community participation
At Freedom Therapy Services, our psychologists and behaviour therapists use gold-standard tools and observation to build a clear picture of your child’s abilities.
Why Is a Functional Capacity Assessment Important?
Supports NDIS Applications
The NDIS often requires evidence of a child’s functional ability. An FCA provides detailed reports that support your plan application or review.
Identifies Strengths and Support Needs
An FCA highlights not only where your child struggles, but also their strengths.
Why This Matters for Families
- Builds confidence in your child’s abilities
- Focuses therapy where it is most effective
Guides Tailored Therapy
Assessment results help our team design personalised support. For example:
- Behaviour therapy for managing big emotions
- Psychology for anxiety, stress, or trauma
- Parent coaching for building routines at home
What Does a Functional Capacity Assessment Involve?
Step 1: Background Information
We begin by gathering history from parents, carers, and teachers.
Step 2: Observation and Testing
Your child will complete age-appropriate tasks such as problem-solving, role plays, or daily living activities.
Step 3: Interviews with Parents and Carers
We talk with families to understand goals, challenges, and what supports are most helpful.
Step 4: Report and Recommendations
A psychologist or behaviour therapist will provide a detailed report.
What the Report Includes
- Functional abilities overview
- Areas requiring support
- Recommendations for therapy
- NDIS funding category suggestions
Who Conducts a Functional Capacity Assessment?
At Freedom Therapy Services, our NDIS-registered psychologists and behaviour support practitioners conduct FCAs.
Flexible Assessment Settings
- Clinic (Caringbah, Sydney)
- Telehealth (Australia-wide)
- Home, school, or community settings
How a Functional Capacity Assessment Helps with NDIS
Evidence for “Reasonable and Necessary” Supports
The NDIS uses FCA results to determine funding needs.
Easier Access to the Right Supports
Parents can use FCA reports to secure:
- Therapy funding
- Equipment and resources
- Respite and community supports
For more details, visit the NDIS website.
Functional Capacity Assessments vs Cognitive Assessments
Functional Capacity Assessment
Focuses on daily living skills and how a child functions in the real world.
Cognitive Assessment
Looks at thinking skills such as memory, problem-solving, and processing speed.
At Freedom Therapy Services, we provide both. Learn more about our cognitive assessments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What age is a functional capacity assessment for?
An FCA can be done for children as young as two through to adults.
How long does the assessment take?
Most assessments take 2–4 hours across one or two sessions.
Will my child need to prepare?
No special preparation is required. Bring comfort items or snacks if helpful.
Is the assessment covered by NDIS?
Yes. Funding may come from Improved Daily Living or other relevant categories.
Related Services at Freedom Therapy Services
Get Support Today
If you think your child may benefit from a functional capacity assessment, we are here to help.
📞 Contact Freedom Therapy Services today to book an assessment and get the support your child needs.
