Initial Needs Assessments
Clarifying Capacity. Identifying Barriers. Charting the Path Forward.
At ELEV8 Consulting, our Initial Needs Assessment is more than just a checkpoint—it’s a strategic launchpad for safe, sustainable recovery and return to work. Delivered by experienced rehabilitation consultants, our assessments provide a holistic picture of the individual’s current functional status while identifying psychosocial, medical, and workplace barriers that may be impacting recovery.
We take a values-driven and person-centred approach, ensuring clients feel heard and respected, while providing clear, clinically justified recommendations that are practical, actionable, and aligned with evidence-based practice.
Our Service Includes
Our coaching and rehabilitation services deliver measurable impact. Leaders and workers gain the confidence and practical skills that drive real change. A cornerstone of our approach is the Initial Needs Assessment (INA) — a structured, evidence-based assessment that clarifies capacity, risks, and the most efficient pathway forward.
Initial Needs Assessment (INA) – what to expect
Structured interviews with the worker and relevant stakeholders to understand the role, workload, culture, and any barriers to recovery and performance
Functional and psychosocial screening using recognised tools to identify risks, strengths, and supports (e.g. workload, cognitive demands, fatigue, confidence, team dynamics)
Job demands analysis to align certified capacity with the inherent requirements of the role and any reasonable adjustments
Consultation with treating providers to validate capacity, treatment priorities, and timeframes
Clear recommendations that outline return-to-work (RTW) options, role modifications, pacing, and goal setting — including when vocational options should be explored
What you receive
A concise written report that summarises findings and provides practical, prioritised recommendations
A draft RTW plan (where appropriate) with duties, hours, staging, and review points
Adjustment advice for equipment, workflow, team practices, and communication
Broader rehabilitation and coaching support
Beyond the INA, our team provides end-to-end support to implement and review agreed actions.
Comprehensive, structured interviews with the worker and relevant stakeholders
Detailed analysis of medical, psychosocial, and occupational factors
Liaison with treating professionals to validate capacity and support needs
Practical and creative strategies for workplace accommodations and adjustments
Guidance on recovery-at-work planning, RTW goal setting, and rehabilitation pathways
Collaborative consultation with employers to identify tailored solutions
A detailed written report with recommendations that support informed decision-making
Why organisations choose us
Evidence-based and outcome-focused: We combine clinical insight with operational practicality to reduce risk and downtime.
Clear, actionable guidance: Recommendations are specific, measurable, and easy to implement.
Collaborative by design: We work transparently with employers, case managers, and treating providers to keep everyone aligned.
Legislative Alignment: Our processes align with WHS obligations and scheme requirements across Comcare and state jurisdictions.
See the Impact
“The assessment was thorough and gave everyone on the team a clear roadmap forward.”
Case Manager
“I felt heard, and the plan made me feel supported and hopeful.”
Worker
Supporting recovery?
Let’s make it happen today!
We don’t just lead the business—we live the work. Our leadership team continues to deliver services firsthand, bringing real-world insight, empathy, and connection to every decision we make.