Types of Therapy & Services
Children with developmental delays, disabilities, medical needs, or behavioral health concerns may benefit from a variety of therapy services. These therapies are designed to help children build important skills such as communication, movement, daily living skills, and behavior.
The sections below provide an overview of common therapy services and how they support children and families.
Quick Overview
- Different therapies support different areas of development
- Services may be provided in clinics, homes, schools, or specialized programs
- Many children receive more than one type of therapy
- Funding programs may help cover therapy services
Understanding Therapy Services
The services below are some of the most common supports families may encounter when navigating developmental, medical, or behavioral needs.
Each service has a different role, and understanding the basics can help families ask better questions and make informed decisions.
Speech therapy helps children develop communication skills including speech, language, social communication, and feeding or swallowing skills.
Occupational therapy helps children develop the skills needed for everyday activities such as dressing, eating, handwriting, sensory processing, and play.
A Medicaid program that may reimburse families for private health insurance premiums when it is more cost-effective than Medicaid alone.
ABA therapy is often used to support children with autism and other developmental differences by teaching communication, social, and behavioral skills.
Behavioral Health Services
Behavioral health services help children who are experiencing emotional, behavioral, or mental health challenges. These supports may include counseling, therapy, and programs that build coping and life skills.
How Therapy Services Work
After a child receives an evaluation, professionals may recommend one or more types of therapy depending on the child’s needs. Some children receive services from a single therapist, while others work with a team of providers who focus on different developmental areas.
Therapy plans are typically individualized and may change over time as children grow and develop new skills.
Real Life Tip
Many children benefit from more than one type of therapy at the same time. For example, a child may work with a speech therapist to improve communication while also receiving occupational therapy to develop daily living or sensory skills.
Therapy recommendations are based on evaluations and the individual goals for each child.
Helpful Resources
Related Guides on Real Life Resources
Official information and applications
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