Emily Dolton
We Have a Diagnosis: Now What? The 4-1-1 on common therapies
Receiving a primary diagnosis is not always the light at the end
of the tunnel. Faced with an odyssey of interventions and therapies, parents can become overwhelmed, navigating which route will provide the most benefit with the least expenditure of resources. No parent wants to face these decisions alone, especially with no map and a parental “gas tank” on empty. The diagnosis likely started with your pediatrician, who will become a hub of referrals and assessments to support your child’s health and education. Here is a list of common therapies and their functions. Your doctor can help decide which of these will provide the best chance of keeping your child well and feeling successful.
The Big Three Speech/Language Pathology (Speech Therapy): Speech therapy is primarily about communication, not just the production of sound for speech. Therapists may utilize sign language and other nonverbal communication. They may recommend an augmentative communication specialist to evaluate the need for other devices or strategies for communication. Social skills groups are a great way for teens to practice techniques to make and maintain friends. Because speech therapists learn about the structure of the palate and esophagus, they can also help with swallowing and feeding. As communication is a vital part of life, this is often the most common therapy recommended. Physical Therapy: Children may be recommended for physical therapy if they are not meeting developmental milestones, if they have low trunk strength, muscle tone, or balance issues, or if they have a diagnosis that affects bone or muscle, such as Cerebral Palsy or Spina Bifida. Referral to physical therapy is important not only for rehabilitative properties, but also to be assessed for mobility devices and other equipment. Occupational Therapy: Children may be referred for occupational therapy if they have difficulties with fine motor skills, if they seem to have sensitivities to sensory input, if they have trouble regulating emotions, or if they have difficulties with self-care activities. Occupational Therapists often work with teams of educators and other therapists to help a child utilize calming strategies and fit into an inclusive school or play setting.
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