what is a DE?

Developmental Educators (DE’s) are holistic allied health professionals operating within a person-centred, human-rights, strengths-based approach.

DE’s are skilled in working alongside people with disability (and their support systems), assisting them to break down barriers, achieve their goals and live a life that is most meaningful to them.

  • Supporting positive behaviour change within a relational, human rights-focused, trauma-sensitive and neurodivergent affirming approach that considers the person as a whole.

  • EQUINE ASSISTED DE

    We offer unique Developmental Education services with support from our team of horses (based in the Barossa Valley). This combines developmental education with the therapeutic benefits of being within nature and with animals.

  • Mobile DE services

    Mobile DE services may be available within various home, school and community environments, or via Telehealth (if deemed suitable). Please reach out regarding specific service areas (please note: travel fees apply).

  • assessments

    We can complete a range of developmental and functional assessments, providing associated recommendations (including for NDIS) and/or support strategies. Please use the contact form below to request further information.

  • Parenting support

    We’re here to listen, understand and support you through the challenges of raising another human (of any age and stage) with practical guidance. We provide holistic parenting support through a neuro-affirming, trauma-sensitive, nervous system approach.

How can developmental education serve me?

While DE’s use a unique approach to support individuals to identify and work toward (almost) any goals that are meaningful to them, here are some of the areas that we are most passionate about supporting at SEEN:

  • Emotional and behavioural awareness

  • Regulation skills (emotional, behavioural, sensory)

  • Awareness of patterns (emotions, sensations, thoughts)

  • Social understanding and communication skills

  • Sensory processing differences

  • Setting boundaries and practising assertiveness

  • Overcoming barriers to full inclusion

  • Mindfulness practices and grounding techniques, aiding regulation

  • Support for parents/caregivers navigating ‘big feelings’ and behaviours through an attachment lens

  • Fostering attunement in relationships

  • Understanding human rights and supported decision making principles

DE’s are multi-disciplinary disability specialists who can support people of all ages with developmental and/or acquired disabilities.

For further information regarding DE’s and scope of practice, please refer to the Developmental Educators Australia (DEA) website

https://www.deai.com.au/about/what-is-a-developmental-educator

Developmental Education services can be funded through NDIS (Plan or Self Managed participants) – Improved Daily Living (Therapy Supports – Assessment Recommendation Therapy or Training – Developmental Educator OR Early Childhood Supports). We also welcome privately funded clients.

The current hourly rate is in line with the NDIS Price Guide, at $193.99 per hour (this is subject to change).

If you’re not sure whether we’re the right fit for you or the person you support, we can talk it through with you. If we’re not a match, we may be able to suggest an alternative.