Occupational Therapy in Orlando at Summit Therapies
Many children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or other developmental differences experience challenges that affect how they move through and participate in daily life – challenges with sensory processing, fine motor coordination, self-care routines, or the ability to engage in play and learning in ways that feel manageable.
Occupational therapy addresses these areas by supporting children in developing the skills they need to participate more independently in the everyday activities that matter at home, at school, and in the community.
At Summit Therapies in Longwood, FL, occupational therapy is offered as part of our center-based model alongside ABA therapy, speech therapy, and family guidance. Contact us to learn more or call (407) 732-2487.
What Occupational Therapy Addresses
Pediatric occupational therapy addresses the skills that allow children to participate in the activities and routines of everyday life. For children with ASD and developmental differences, these areas may include, depending on each child’s individual assessment and the specific services available at the time of enrollment:
- Sensory processing – supporting children in managing sensory input from their environment, including responses to sound, touch, movement, light, and other sensory experiences that may affect their ability to participate in daily activities
- Fine motor skills – developing hand strength, coordination, and dexterity that support tasks such as writing, drawing, cutting, fastening clothing, and managing small objects
- Gross motor skills – supporting body awareness, coordination, and movement skills that affect how children navigate their environment and participate in physical activities
- Self-care and daily living skills – supporting independence in dressing, feeding, hygiene, and other personal care routines that are part of everyday life at home and at school
- Visual-motor integration – the coordination of visual perception and motor skills that supports tasks such as copying from a board, completing puzzles, and organizing materials
- Emotional regulation and sensory strategies – helping children identify and use strategies that support self-regulation when sensory or emotional demands become challenging
- Play skills – supporting children in engaging in age-appropriate play in ways that are accessible and meaningful for them
The specific areas addressed in occupational therapy depend on each child’s individualized assessment and treatment goals, developed in collaboration with the family and coordinated with the child’s overall treatment plan at Summit Therapies.
Why Occupational Therapy and ABA Therapy Work Well Together
ABA therapy and occupational therapy address different but related aspects of a child’s development, and many children benefit from both within a coordinated treatment plan. ABA therapy focuses on understanding and building a wide range of skills through behavior analysis principles, including independence, communication, and school readiness. Occupational therapy focuses on the sensory, motor, and functional skill foundations that affect how children participate in daily activities and learning environments.
When both are provided within the same center and coordinated between clinicians, families benefit from care that addresses multiple dimensions of their child’s development without managing separate relationships across different providers. At Summit Therapies, our center-based model supports this kind of coordinated approach. Learn more about how our center works on our therapy center page.
Occupational Therapy and School Readiness
Many of the skills that affect how a child participates in a classroom setting are foundational skills that occupational therapy is well-suited to address. Sitting comfortably in a chair, holding a pencil, managing a backpack, participating in activities that require fine motor coordination, and tolerating the sensory environment of a busy classroom all depend on skills within the occupational therapy scope of practice.
For children preparing to enter preschool, kindergarten, or a new school setting, occupational therapy may support the foundational skill development that helps them participate more fully in classroom routines and activities. Our team connects occupational therapy goals to the school-readiness focus of our center-based program. More on school readiness at Summit Therapies is available on our therapy center page.
Family Involvement in Occupational Therapy
Many of the skills addressed in occupational therapy are most meaningful when practiced in the natural contexts where they are needed – at the breakfast table, during the morning routine, on the playground, or while getting dressed. At Summit Therapies, family involvement is central to how we work across all therapy services, including occupational therapy.
Families receive practical guidance on how to support their child’s OT goals in everyday routines and activities, and our team is available to discuss strategies that fit within the family’s daily life. Learn more about our approach to family involvement on our Parent Collaboration and Family Support page.
Getting Started With Occupational Therapy at Summit Therapies
Occupational therapy at Summit Therapies is available through our center-based program at 1936 Boothe Circle, Longwood, FL 32750. To get started, families complete an intake process that begins with a consultation to discuss their child’s needs and determine the appropriate level of support.
Our administrative staff can assist with insurance questions and authorization. Summit Therapies accepts Cigna, HMTC, Florida Blue, Aetna, and Step Up. Contact us to begin the intake process or call (407) 732-2487.
Summit Therapies Supports Daily Living and Independence for Children Throughout Central Florida
If your child is working on sensory processing, motor skills, self-care independence, or the foundational skills that support school participation, occupational therapy may be a valuable part of their overall treatment plan.
At Summit Therapies, we provide occupational therapy in a center-based model that coordinates care across services and keeps families actively involved throughout the process.
Our center in Longwood, FL, serves families in Orlando and throughout Central Florida. Contact Summit Therapies today to schedule a consultation or learn more about our services, including ABA therapy and speech therapy.
Accepting Clients with the Following Insurances
Ready to Support Your Child’s Success?
Navigating the school year and daily routines can be challenging. Our expert clinical team is here to provide the structured, compassionate ABA therapy your child needs to thrive. Fill out the form or call us today to begin the intake process.
Phone: +1 (407) 732-2487
Email: summittherapies@gmail.com
Therapy Center: 1936 Boothe Cir FL 3275 Longwood, FL 32750