Pediatric Therapy

St. Claire's physical, occupational, and speech therapists can add beneficial support to your child's development. Our therapists have received pediatric-specific training and certifications. They provide thorough evaluations and individualized therapy. Most importantly, our therapists give children the confidence to interact with peers and play with their friends. The result is confident children and adolescents who are motivated to lead promising lives.

Physical Therapy

Pediatric physical therapists focus on developing a child's movement skills to help them reach motor milestones, improve strength, improve mobility or endurance, and prevent or limit permanent physical disabilities. Movement is the foundation for maximizing your child's independence.

Your child may benefit from physical therapy if they have trouble:

Learning how to crawl or walk.
Sitting or standing without support.
Walking up and down stairs.
Walking and running without tripping or falling.
Catching or throwing objects.
Playing.
Staying on the same physical skill level as their peers.
Maintaining good posture.
Keeping balance or have trouble with coordination.
Falling often or not protecting him/herself when he/she falls.

Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapists address skills that help individuals be successful in their occupations. Pediatric occupational therapists understand that school, play, and self-care are the "occupations" of childhood. We are dedicated to helping children participate in life to their fullest potential and develop the skills to become functional, independent children.

Your child may benefit from occupational therapy if they:

Have difficulty using two hands together for tasks.
Have difficulty adjusting to new environments or to sensations such as sounds, touch, or movement.
Spin, rock, or rub objects excessively.
Have difficulty using tools for writing or feeding.
Have poor handwriting.
Have difficulty getting dressed or using buttons, hooks, or fasteners.
Have trouble playing with peers.
Have trouble tolerating the taste or texture of foods or may be a picky eater.
Are not on the same level as their peers in daily childhood activities.

Speech Therapy

Speech and language therapists address the ability to communicate a message using voice, fluency, articulation, and rhythm, as well as non-verbal methods such as body and sign language. They help children understand and use language to express their thoughts, feelings, and desires by developing optimal communication skills tailored to the child's specific needs.

Your child may benefit from speech therapy if they have trouble:

Learning how to speak or have a limited use of words.
Pronouncing words so that others can understand.
Answering and asking questions.
Following directions.
Responding when his or her name is called.
Listening when there is noise in the background.
Chewing and swallowing.
Controlling excessive drooling.
Speaking with peers.

Interdisciplinary Feeding and Swallowing Therapy

Pediatric feeding therapy is a combination of treatment approaches that help children and their families address mild to severe feeding concerns from birth through 18 years old. Our occupational and speech therapists have received specialized training in feeding and swallowing to provide the best treatment available.

Parent Testimonials

“Some people do not believe that therapy works, but as a parent of a child with a big developmental delay, my opinion is very different. This program is very effective and they have impacted our lives greatly with their involvement and efforts to improve my baby’s developmental delays. My baby boy has shown outstanding improvements and has made great progress since we started attending therapy. The staff there are very kind, helpful, and caring to his needs. The techniques and exercises I’ve been shown in therapy are helpful for me to work with him more at home. We are very thankful to have the program and staff in our lives today!”

--Mom of a 1-year, 9-month-old boy receiving physical and occupational therapy

“Excited to say we have had great success with speech therapy. Sarah has been patient and yet energetic with my son. I could tell a huge difference within the first three sessions. He focuses more himself when speaking, correcting his mistakes. I had tried numerous times to get him assistance and it never worked out. I’m so thankful this team was able to help him. We can tell a difference at home. School teachers and family members have mentioned the progress. I like the relationship he has developed with his speech therapist. He enjoys the therapy and doesn’t dread it. We are very pleased with the St. Claire Healthcare Therapy Team!”

--Mom of a 5-year-old boy receiving speech therapy

"Through her patience and skill set, our occupational therapist, Beth, has helped my son learn how to communicate his needs to me in his everyday routine. As a mother, your child's needs are the most important part of your life, so for Beth to teach Noah how to help me help him, I feel like she helped make our family whole. I have seen him write his own name, use scissors, and put his own shoes on. Occupational therapy has taught my son life skills and academic skills. My favorite outcome by far is seeing the big brother he has turned into. He shows affection and concern for his little sister where he once used to completely ignore her. He includes her in his world and that means more to me than anything. We are so blessed to be a part of the Morehead community and the St. Claire rehab family!"

--Mom of a 4-year-old boy receiving occupational therapy

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm concerned about my child. What should I do?

Speak with your child's healthcare provider to discuss your concerns. If a referral is made for therapy, we will schedule your child for an evaluation in physical, occupational, and/or speech therapy.

What ages does St. Claire Pediatric Therapy treat?

We see children of all ages, from birth to 18 years old.

How often and how many therapy sessions will my child have?

The total number of visits will be based on the evaluation and goals set by your therapist. Generally, children see a therapist once or twice a week.

What insurance do you accept?

St. Claire Pediatric Therapy accepts most major insurance plans. Insurance companies are complicated and all plans are different. We will make every effort to accommodate your child and assist you in understanding what benefits are available to your child in their healthcare plan.