Evaluation
Your child will be referred to occupational therapy for an evaluation from their pediatrician or specialist. During the evaluation, the occupational therapist will listen to the caregiver(s) concerns and gather information about the child’s current strengths and areas of need through interview, observation, and/or a standardized assessment. Evaluations may last up to 60 minutes. If your child is scheduled for a feeding evaluation, please bring food for your child to eat during the evaluation.
At the end of the evaluation, results and recommendations will be reviewed. Outcomes may include referral to another service, recommendations for community programs, and the creation of a home program or activities to work on at home. If ongoing occupational therapy is recommended, a referral for treatment from your child’s doctor and authorization from your insurance will be requested.
Episodic Care
We use an episodic care model of therapy. Episodic care is a period of therapeutic intervention focused on addressing specific, functional, and meaningful goals. The goals are established at the evaluation in collaboration with child/caregiver(s) and may be updated at the first appointment. At the end of the episode, therapy is discontinued to practice mastery of these new skills across home and community settings.
Onsite Therapy
Therapy services may occur in one of our clinic locations. During these sessions, caregiver(s) must be present as caregiver education and collaboration during the session is essential for creating an effective home program. See our locations page.
Telemedicine
Therapy services may also occur via telemedicine or a video visit. Considerations for telemedicine service may include insurance coverage, therapy needs, family preference, child’s health, and distance from the clinic. Your child must be in California during the telemedicine appointment due to therapist licensing. Caregivers must be present, and distractions should be minimized during the appointment time.
Individual Therapy
In individual therapy, you and your child will work with an occupational therapist towards goals established at the evaluation or first appointment.
Group Therapy
When appropriate, the occupational therapist may recommend your child take part in group therapy. We offer groups for feeding and regulation.