FAQs

What is occupational therapy/OT?

Occupational therapy (OT) is a health profession focused on the importance of meaningful “occupations” or the activities that “occupy” our time. Occupational therapists (or OTs) look at the whole person, including their unique strengths and challenges that may empower or limit them to engage in these everyday tasks. At Grow Pediatric Therapy, we work closely with families to develop a plan of care that focuses on meaningful participation in the daily activities that matter most, including self care, school related tasks, and play. 

What do you do in OT?

We address functional tasks the way kids learn– through play! Your sessions will be tailored to your individual child’s needs and interests. 

What does OT address?

We address fine motor skills, visual motor integration, motor coordination/motor planning, sensory processing, picky eating, emotional regulation, executive functioning and social skills. Activities that may be impacted by these skills include: self-care (brushing teeth, dressing, etc.), eating a wide variety of foods, managing emotions, interacting with others, handwriting, etc. 

What will my OT sessions look like? 

Your first session will be an initial evaluation where you will discuss concerns with your occupational therapist. During the initial evaluation, your therapist will complete a parent/patient interview to determine areas for intervention as well as collaborate with you and your child to establish your family’s priorities and goals for treatment. Standardized testing and clinical observation of fine motor/visual motor skills, motor planning, sensory processing, emotional regulation, and executive functioning may be administered based on your child’s needs. 

Treatment typically occurs weekly for sessions lasting between 50 minutes to an hour. Your occupational therapist will determine the frequency necessary to address your family’s goals at the initial evaluation. 

How long are the sessions?

Typically last between 50 minutes to 1 hour depending on the child’s needs.

How many sessions do I have?

The plan of care or POC is based on the individual child’s needs and is determined by your OT at the evaluation. A progress note is completed at least every 12 weeks where the plan is re-evaluated by you and your OT. More visits may be recommended or a discharge plan may be implemented. 

Am I expected to attend appointments?

Yes! Parent involvement is crucial to making progress, so be sure to come prepared with any necessary items (such as snacks or self-care tools like a toothbrush) as well as any questions or concerns you would like to share with your child’s therapist. 

Patients may be seen without parents present BUT that is up to the discretion of the THERAPIST. Parents MUST be present for initial evaluations. Parents are expected to stay on property during the appointment time. 

Can siblings/grandparents/PSWs attend? 

As your individual child is our client, our expectation is that they will be the focus of our treatment. We also occupy a shared space so extra bodies could impact other children’s ability to engage and participate in their therapy session. Before bringing an additional person to your appointment, PLEASE check in with your therapist. Of course, we understand that emergencies or special circumstances may come up, however, you may be asked to wait in our lobby with your other child if needed.