Occupational and Physical Therapy

Occupational therapy (OT) and physical therapy (PT) are related services provided to students as specified in their Individualized Education Program (IEP). These therapies support students in accessing and benefiting from their educational program—whether in a special education or general education setting—by addressing sensory, gross motor, and fine motor challenges.

A licensed therapist conducts evaluations within the school or typical learning environment to identify areas of need and develop targeted recommendations that integrate OT and/or PT interventions into the student’s educational program. Therapy services are designed to enhance functional skills necessary for academic success and daily activities.

Areas of Focus:

• Development of fine motor skills, including dexterity and coordination
• Enhancement of visual-motor integration for tasks such as writing and cutting
• Support for self-regulation and sensory processing
• Improvement of gross motor skills, including balance, strength, and coordination
• Promotion of postural stability and control for seated and movement-based tasks
• Assistance with appropriate positioning and mobility for classroom participation
• Encouragement of independence in daily routines and self-care activities
• Optimization of movement quality to support functional participation

• Individual or small group therapy tailored to the student’s specific needs
• Ongoing support to help students generalize skills across various school settings
• Consultative services for teachers, classroom aides, and parents to implement strategies effectively
• Preparation of specialized materials to support student learning and skill development