Supporting young autistic children with ESDM—an evidence-based, play-based early intervention approach.
Supporting young autistic children with ESDM—an evidence-based, play-based early intervention approach.
We offer the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM), an evidence-based therapy for young autistic children aged 1–5. Through fun, play-based sessions, we support your child’s development in communication, social engagement, imitation, and everyday skills. ESDM builds strong relationships and confidence—because learning happens best through connection. Therapy can take place at our clinic or in your home.
We support 4–5-year-olds in building the confidence and social skills they need to thrive in both structured and unstructured settings. Our focus includes easing the transition to school, supporting group participation, and helping children learn how to make and keep friends. Our small group program, Sunday Social Explorer, provides a safe, fun space where children can practise turn-taking, shared play, and building meaningful relationships in a supportive environment.
As a registered member of Developmental Educators Australia (Reg. No. 3324981), we provide allied health support that is NDIS-aligned and neuro-affirming. Services include individual assessments, planning, and collaboration across home, early learning, and community settings. We help families navigate the NDIS, set meaningful goals, and coordinate with other professionals. School visits, strategy plans, and reports are available to support transitions and reviews.
We work alongside families to build skills, routines, and strategies you can use every day. Coaching sessions are tailored to your goals—whether it’s helping your child transition more smoothly, encouraging communication, or managing mealtimes. We use ESDM-based coaching and Project ImPACT strategies to empower you to feel confident and supported at home and in the community.
At Rise High Therapy, we’re more than a therapy team—we’re also partners in life and parents to two wonderful children, one of whom is autistic. Our experience as both professionals and parents gives us a genuine understanding of what families need during and after the diagnostic process.
We offer a compassionate, neuro-affirmative, and evidence-based approach—always focused on helping children grow and supporting parents every step of the way.
Developmental Educator | Certified ESDM Therapist | Academic
Vasily is a registered Developmental Educator (DEAI Reg. No. 3324981), certified ESDM therapist, and a casual academic at the University of Wollongong. He holds a Master of Autism and a Graduate Certificate in Neurodiversity and has dedicated his work to supporting autistic children and their families during the early years.
Through Rise High Therapy, Vasily provides early intervention using the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM), along with developmental assessments, school consultations and neuro-affirming parent coaching. He also mentors future professionals, contributes to neurodiversity-focused advocacy and brings practical insight as both a clinician and a parent.
Areas of focus:
– ESDM therapy and early intervention for children aged 1–5
– Parent coaching and family capacity-building
– Developmental assessments and NDIS reports
– Preschool visits and school readiness planning
– Educator mentoring and interdisciplinary collaboration
Certified ESDM Therapist | Early Years Specialist | Multilingual Educator
Rita is a certified ESDM therapist with over a decade of experience in early childhood education, therapy, and autism support. She holds postgraduate qualifications in teaching and early childhood development, blending evidence-based practice with an understanding of children’s social-emotional and learning needs.
In addition to her work at Rise High Therapy, Rita provides ESDM therapy at the University of Wollongong and contributes to early intervention research at the Brain and Mind Centre (University of Sydney). She offers therapy in English, Russian and Mandarin, supporting culturally responsive care for families from diverse backgrounds. Rita has particular expertise in supporting minimally speaking children to build connection, engagement, and early communication through joyful, play-based learning.
Areas of focus:
– ESDM therapy and play-based learning
– Early communication and joint attention
– Emotion regulation and sensory support
– Parent coaching and collaborative practice
– Therapy in English, Russian, and Mandarin
We know what it’s like to sit on the other side of the therapy room—full of questions, hopes, and worries. That’s why we created Rise High Therapy: to offer the kind of personalised, relationship-based support we once needed ourselves.
We bring together years of professional experience, formal training, and personal insight to support your child’s development in a way that is affirming, practical, and truly connected to your family’s journey.
Please contact us directly with any questions, comments, or scheduling inquiries you may have.
Email any documents to RiseHighTherapy@gmail.com
Level 4, 12-14 Ormonde Parade, Hurstville New South Wales 2220, Australia
Open today | 09:00 am – 05:00 pm |
Monday - Friday: 8:00am - 6:00pm
