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Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy

Physical therapist working with a child using exercise bands

Physical therapy (PT) focuses on developing and supporting skills related to mobility, gait, and balance, whereas occupational therapy (OT) focuses on the performance of fine motor skills more closely related to the activities of daily living. The Bucks IU’s licensed, professional therapists are highly skilled and experienced in providing these two different and unique treatments so that children and youth can achieve the skills they need to be able to participate in their home and academic environments, and prepare for post-secondary transition with as much independence and success as possible.

Our philosophy works on building student confidence and abilities by 
focusing on their strengths in relation to what they need to achieve.

Positivity and achievement in small steps can be an enormous impetus behind continued growth and development. We integrate therapies with the skills students want/need to be able to accomplish in their everyday lives.  Our experienced therapists can assist with the necessary equipment, devices, and intervention strategies to provide task support, positioning, and access to educational opportunities.

School-Based Programs

Outcomes, or results, of school-based therapy should be linked to curriculum-related goals, success in child or student roles, and educational performance. These therapies are focused on participation in educational activities rather than on impairments in body structure/function.  For example, physical therapy may be advised for a student who exhibits difficulties with balance so that they may be better able to navigate the stairs in the school building.  For a student struggling with the manual dexterity to manage classroom tools for writing, occupational therapy many be consulted to determine alternative means of written expression.

Working in the student's academic environment allows therapists to share strategies and information. As practice is critical to mastering and advancing skills, this sharing of information allows the teachers and staff to maximize opportunities for student practice throughout the day.

Services with Individualized Attention

We proudly provide PT and/or OT services to eligible students between the ages of 3-21.  Preschool age children are serviced directly by the Bucks IU, which is the primary provider of preschool services as designated by the state.  For eligible students in kindergarten through age 21, their home school district is the primary contact for services.  The school districts in Bucks County have the option to then contract with us for PT and/or OT services as we are oftentimes already providing related services in their schools.