Download Delivery of Therapy

The Austin Independent School District Occupational and Physical Therapy Department supports students with identified disabilities to facilitate their independence, success, and safety in the educational environment.

Who We Serve

The school based occupational therapist (OT) and physical therapist (PT) support students with identified disabilities and their classroom staff.

They provide support with:

• functional motor development
• self help skills related to the educational setting
• mobility skills
• positioning for function, health and safety
• adapted equipment
• other needs when appropriate

School Based Therapy

School based therapy services strive to facilitate the student's potential for functional independence and participation in educational activities. This differs from the medical model of therapy services, which focuses on medical needs.

Referral Process

A student who is enrolled in special education programs or who is eligible under the Developmental Disability Act (Section 504)may be referred for an occupational and/or physical therapy assessment.

• A referral may be made if the student has difficulty with skills, abitilities or other needs which impact his or her ability to succeed in an educational setting.
• The referral must be made through the appropriate Admission, Review and Dismissal (ARD) committee meeting.
• The student's parent or legal guardian must provide written consent for the assessment.
• Findings of the assessment are reported at an ARD committee meeting. Therapy recommendations are based on educational need.

Roles of the Occupational and Physical Therapist

The professional roles of the occupational and physical therapist are similiar. Both are concerned with the development of physical skills, activities of daily living, and enviromental adaptations.

• Occupational therapists have additional knowledge in the areas of fine motor and sensory motor skills.
• Physical therapists have additional knowledge in the areas of gross motor skills, mobility, and positioning.

For more information contact:

Elizabeth Dickey, Supervisor
The Department of Occupational and Physical Therapy Services
Austin ISD
2117 W.49th Street
Austin, TX 78756
(512)414-2400
elizabeth.dickey@austinisd.org