Mission

What is Occupational Therapy? Occupational therapy is a health profession, which seeks to help children and adults function better in the physical, emotional and academic areas of their lives by using purposeful activities. The occupations of children are learning, playing and becoming independent; all requiring a variety of developmental skills.

Specific developmental skills are in the sensory processing, fine motor (including handwriting) and self-help areas. In occupational therapy these areas are evaluated according to age expectations. If there is a discrepancy, the therapist looks for the contributing factors such as sensory integration dysfunction, postural instability and movement impairments.

Treatment may include direct therapy in which the child participates in purposeful activities and play. The therapist may adapt the task, materials or environment to facilitate skill development. Consultation with the family and with those involved in the child’s life is a critical piece of therapy.

How do I know if my child needs occupational therapy?

Your child may need occupational therapy if:

• There has been a specific diagnosis that involves neurological or motor development such as cerebral palsy, down syndrome, autism spectrum disorder, sensory processing dysfunction or attention deficit disorder.

• Another professional in your child’s life such as a physician or teacher recognizes a delay.
• Your child is falling behind in school performance even though he or she is putting forth effort.

It is our belief that children should be given every opportunity possible to develop to their greatest potential. Private occupational therapy may be the only therapy being provided or may be an adjunct to therapy already being received in a school setting. This service delivery model is not limited by specific theories or methodologies. Through our experience in school settings and home-based therapy, we are continually impressed with the uniqueness of each child and family we meet. This uniqueness demands absolute individuality in the child’s therapy and educational program.

Parents usually know their children best and that they can be the most influential and effective adults in their lives. That influence can be possible in the many roles that a parent can play, including teacher and therapist. As therapists, it is our desire to "come alongside" the child and the family, to assist in the child’s development.