Our Approach to Pediatric Occupational Therapy
Pediatric occupational therapy at Southwest Integrated Behavioral Health incorporates neurokinesthetic, sensory, and motor approaches. We use strengthening, sensory-motor, resistance, and dexterity activities to improve fine motor skills.
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Neurokinesthetic activities use movement-based techniques to stimulate the nervous system. This enhances motor control, coordination, and functional abilities.
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Visual motor activities help students develop the skills needed to perform effectively in a classroom setting.
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Sensory activities support students with sensory integration processing difficulties and improve their ability to actively participate in their academic environment with proper attention and body modulation.
Parents are routinely included in treatment sessions. Our experienced occupational therapists strive to help families integrate skills learned in treatment into their home routines.
Pediatric Occupational Therapy Services
Supporting Development Through Engaging Activities that Enhance Motor Coordination, Body Awareness, and Sensory Processing
What is Pediatric Occupational Therapy?
Every student develops at their own pace, but when certain skills seem to be delayed, it can impact a student’s ability to participate in daily activities. Some students need extra support to build essential skills due to developmental delays, motor challenges, or conditions like autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome, ADHD, specific learning disorders, or cerebral palsy. Pediatric occupational therapy helps address these challenges to foster greater independence and confidence in everyday life.
Pediatric occupational therapy helps students develop essential skills for daily activities such as eating, dressing, writing, socializing, and playing. By improving fine motor skills, sensory processing, and self-regulation, therapy fosters independence and confidence, allowing students to better engage in everyday life.
How to Get Started with Pediatric Occupational Therapy
A medical referral for occupational therapy is required. Typically, your child’s primary care physician (PCP) can issue a medical referral, but we also accept referrals from other licensed medical providers, such as a neurologist or psychiatrist. All health insurance carriers require a medical referral to document medical necessity for occupational therapy, and a referral is also required for prior authorization requests. Prior authorization is required for most health insurance plans. Other health professionals—such as behavioral therapists, speech therapists, or neuropsychologists—may recommend occupational therapy as an appropriate treatment for your child’s needs. While we welcome collaboration with your child’s treatment team, we cannot accept their recommendation in lieu of a medical referral.
The SWIBH team is here to guide you through every step: insurance eligibility, appointment scheduling, cost review, and consent. We're dedicated to helping your child be more successful in their daily occupations. Contact Southwest Integrated Behavioral Health in Albuquerque today to learn more.
Call us today at 505-247-4900 to learn more about pediatric occupational therapy services at Southwest Integrated Behavioral Health in Albuquerque.