Types of Therapy & Services: What They Are & How They Help

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 Families often hear terms like speech therapy, ABA, or occupational therapy — but understanding what each service actually does can make a big difference. Here's a clear breakdown to help you make informed decisions for your child: 

 What it is:
Speech therapy helps children with communication. This includes speaking, understanding language, social skills, and sometimes feeding.

Helps with:

• Articulation (saying sounds correctly)
• Language delays
• Stuttering
• Feeding/swallowing difficulties
• Social interaction (pragmatics)
•  Evaluation and use of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) tools
   

Often treat: Children with speech delays, autism, developmental delays, hearing loss, or cleft palate.

 What it is:
OT helps children develop the skills they need for daily life — including fine motor tasks, self-care, and sensory regulation.

Helps with:

• Handwriting and grasp
• Dressing, feeding, toileting
• Sensory processing (over- or under-reacting to sound, touch, etc.)
• Motor coordination
   

Often treat: Sensory processing disorder, autism, ADHD, and motor delays.

 What it is:
PT focuses on helping children gain strength, balance, coordination, and mobility.

Helps with:

• Walking and running
• Sitting and standing balance
• Muscle strength and flexibility
• Orthotics or equipment use
   

Often treat: Cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, torticollis, and general motor delays.

 What it is:
ABA is a science-based therapy that focuses on improving social, communication, and learning skills through reinforcement strategies. Most often used with children on the autism spectrum.

Helps with:

• Communication
• Social and play skills
• Self-help tasks (dressing, brushing teeth, etc.)
• Behavior management and safety
• School readiness
   

In Arkansas ABA treats children with a qualifying Autism Spectrum Disorder

What it is:
This therapy helps promote general development in young children by building skills across multiple areas of growth.

Helps with:

• Early cognitive and play development
• Social interaction
• Learning through everyday routines
   

Often used for: Children under age 3 receiving early intervention services like First Connections.

 What it is:
Mental health services provided by licensed professionals like therapists or counselors.

Includes:

• Individual, group, or family therapy
• Counseling for anxiety, depression, trauma, etc.
• Psychiatric services and medication management
   

Often used for: ADHD, trauma, mood disorders, and emotional regulation challenges.