How to Find an Occupational Therapist for an Autistic Child

Occupational therapists help children with delays in motor skills, problems with sensory regulation and more. Occupational therapy is commonly used as part of an autistic child’s therapy regime. Motor delays are common among children on the autism spectrum. An occupational therapist can help a child with both fine and gross motor skills, as well as addressing motor planning concerns. Another common theme among children on the autism spectrum is problems with sensory integration. An occupational therapist trained in sensory processing dysfunctions can help a child’s sensory system become more regulated. Learn how to find an occupational therapist for your child with autism.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pen and paper
• Computer with internet connection
• Phone
• Phonebook
• Email account

1. Open your web browser and go to the Sensory Processing Disorder Foundation’s “Find Service Providers” website.

2. Select the checkbox next to “Occupational therapist.” Fill out your location information and click on “Search."

3. Write down the contact information for the occupational therapists that the search lists.

4. Look in your local phone book’s business listings under “Rehabilitation.” Occupational therapists will likely be listed in this section. Write down the contact information for the therapists in your area.

5. Contact your local chapter of the Autism Society of America (ASA). The ASA website offers a map of the United States with links to the individual chapters. Your local chapter may have recommendations for occupational therapists on its website. If it does not, you will need to either email or call the contact person listed. Many times, local ASA chapters will maintain a list of occupational therapists in the area who have experience working with children on the autism spectrum.

6. Call the occupational therapists on your list and find out the following information: experience with children your child's age, experience with children with an autism spectrum disorder, experience with children’s sensory processing dysfunctions, evaluation/therapy rates and therapy openings. Occupational therapy is becoming a more popular choice for children on the autism spectrum, so there may be a wait list in some areas.

Tips & Warnings

• Verify that your therapist is certified with the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
• When an occupational therapist is evaluating your child, ask to remain present, so you can see how the two interact. The therapist/child relationship is important, as occupational therapy can be challenging for a child with autism.

Resources

• SPD Foundation - “Find Service Providers”
• National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy
• Autism Society of America "Find a Chapter"