Occupational Therapy for Autism

Occupational Therapy for Autism  is one way that many families with an autistic child or children are trying to find relief from the pain they are suffering from. Many people have varying notions about what occupational therapy actually is and how it will work for different people. Occupational therapy is a type of treatment that is usually used in hospitals for people who are suffering from severe injuries or disabilities and are unable to go back to school. OT is used for people who are experiencing sensory integration dysfunction, neurological dysfunction, coordination dysfunction, psychological problems, or motor problems. OT is also used to treat physical deficiencies such as low muscle tone, arm movements, and eye contact. It also helps people to gain self-awareness and improve their communication skills.

 

Occupational therapy is a great way to help a child or adult suffering from autism improve their daily life skills and learn to live with their disability. People who have autism usually have a difficult time doing the normal activities that most of us take for granted. These skills include dressing, eating, bathing, moving about in the home, going to school, and interacting with other people. Occupational therapy includes various tasks such as helping the patient learn how to perform tasks related to daily life skills and helping them develop and improve their motor abilities. In some cases, occupational therapists may also provide specialized instruction in areas where there is a particular communication disorder such as autism.

 

One main goal of OT is to improve the patient’s ability to control their muscles. In most cases, the goal of therapy is to help the person improve their self-awareness and control over their movements. Occupational therapy for autism involves working with the patient to improve their physical and communication skills; teach them to do the types of tasks that they need to perform; teach them how to perform tasks like using the bathroom; use hand tools and equipment; and participate in fun and social activities.

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Occupational therapists for children also work to develop and enhance the emotional skills of the child. Children with autism often have trouble communicating and expressing their feelings, which can lead to frustration and anger. Occupational therapy practitioners help the child to express their feelings through tasks and games they are given responsibility for. Some children with autism may even be referred to a behavioral specialist to help them with their emotional problems. This combination of skills involves learning how to understand and control their anger and frustration; managing their emotions and communicating appropriately; and learning how to make friends and build relationships.

 

Occupational therapy professionals may require the assistance of a pediatric occupational therapist or physical therapist. These two professionals work together to plan an intervention plan that will include the services and tasks that the child needs to perform. Some children with autism have very severe disabilities that require the intervention of both a physical therapist and a developmental therapist. This team of specialists will determine what type of intervention plan is best for the child and the severity of the condition. It is important to remember that an occupational therapist and a developmental therapist cannot work at the same time on the same child.

 

Occupational therapy can sometimes include performing physical therapies like muscle-tensing, balance and coordination activities, speech therapy, and occupational speech therapy. It can also include occupational or fine motor skills like using crutches or a walker. The tasks may also include fine manual manipulation, such as putting together puzzle pieces or making a ring from beads. Occupational therapy for autism typically takes place in a patient’s home.

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