Occupational therapists help individuals improve their ability to perform tasks in living and working environments. They work with individuals who suffer from a mentally, physically, developmentally, or emotionally disabling condition. Occupational therapists use treatments to develop, recover, or maintain the daily living and work skills of their patients. The therapist helps clients not only to improve their basic motor functions and reasoning abilities, but also to compensate for permanent loss of function.The goal is to help clients have independent, productive, and satisfying lives.
There is an initial 60 minute interview and hands-on evaluation, including standardized testing, when indicated, and clinical observation. A thorough narrative report is completed by the therapist. There is a follow-up phone call and/or meeting to discuss evaluation findings, treatment goals and treatment approaches. Weekly sessions include treatment and involve discussing home programs/recommendations and educating family members. Therapeutic goals are continuously being assessed and modified as needed.
The evaluating therapist will determine the frequency of the services after the initial evaluation has taken place based on evaluation findings, prescribed intervention, client benefits, needs and interests.
Most insurance plans cover Occupational Therapy services. Please check the specific terms of your insurance plan. Be sure to understand the restrictions on the number of sessions per service per calender year, frequency and duration of services allowable under your policy. Also be aware of deductibles and percentage of coverage. Insurance policies require “medical necessity”, as evidenced by a prescription from your physician, for therapy services to be provided. Payment options and resources can be discussed if insurance coverage is not an option.
American Occupational Therpy Association
www.aota.org
Autisim Speaks
www.autismspeaks.org
Autisim Society of America
www.autism-society.org
National Down Syndrome Society
www.ndss.org
Muscular Dystrophy Association
www.mdausa.org
United Cerebral Palsy
www.ucp.org
American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
www.aapmr.org
Sammons Preston
www.sammonspreston.com
Handwriting Without Tears
www.hwtears.com
Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technology
www.faast.org