OT and PT are complementary, yet different fields of practice.  Although there are often areas of overlap in treatment, typically the way OTs and PTs approach their practice is entirely different. PTs tend to approach client care from the perspective of physical dysfunction and work to directly resolve or mediate those limitations through physical means (coordination, strengthening, neuromuscular reeducation, adaptive equipment, etc.).  OTs tend to approach client care from the perspective of overall functionality and work to enable the client to fill his or her desired occupational roles (i.e. whatever they need or want to do). This is accomplished through many different modalities including but not limited to physical rehabilitation, modification of the task, and adaptation of the environment.

Your child does not need to have a formal medical diagnosis to benefit from occupational therapy services.  Although a doctor’s referral or additional documentation may be required for acquiring insurance coverage or approval for OT treatments, a formal diagnosis is not required in order to benefit from services. Childhood development is a complex and multifaceted experience that can be influenced by any number of factors.  Occupational therapists specialize in human sensory-motor development and can be a helpful resource when navigating your child’s developmental milestones and growth.

Occupational therapists’ scope of practice varies and will look different depending on the setting.  School-based OTs are trained in all areas of practice, but are limited to addressing areas of need that directly pertain to academic participation.  Clinic-based OTs are also trained in all areas of practice, but often have a broader scope for allowed interventions due to the absence of the academic requirements. Clinic-based therapies that qualify for reimbursement may be dictated by contracted agencies. But in general there are fewer limitations on what areas clinic-based therapists may address.  If your child is currently receiving school-based OT services, please let your Empower therapist know so that we can be complementary with existing goals and treatments.