How to Choose the Right Occupational Therapist

The fit between you and your OT — or between your child and their OT — matters more than almost anything else in care. Two OTs with identical credentials can produce very different experiences depending on philosophy, communication style, and clinical interests.

Here's how to find the right match.

Credentials to Check

• OTR/L or OTD — Registered/licensed occupational therapist. Required to practice.
• State license — in good standing in the state you're being seen in (or, for telehealth, the state you're physically in during the session).
• Specialty certifications — SIPT (Sensory Integration and Praxis Test certification), feeding training (SOS, responsive feeding), CHT for hand therapy, certified Brain Injury Specialist, etc.
• Experience with your specific concern — pediatric ≠ adult, sensory ≠ feeding ≠ ergonomics.

Questions to Ask in a Consultation

• What's your approach? Listen for words like 'neuroaffirmative,' 'relationship-based,' 'sensory integration,' 'play-based' — and notice what's missing. ABA-influenced, compliance-focused language is a different model.
• How do you handle parent involvement? A good OT works with you, not around you.
• How do you measure progress? Look for functional outcomes ('can put on shoes,' 'can sit through a meal') rather than vague behavior metrics.
• What if my child doesn't want to do something? The answer should never include forcing, punishing, or extinguishing.
• How do you handle stimming, autistic behavior, or neurodivergent traits? The answer tells you everything.

Red Flags

• Promises a 'cure' for autism or ADHD.
• Pushes you to start without an assessment.
• Won't share or explain the treatment plan.
• Uses compliance, rewards, or punishment-based language.
• Talks about your child as a problem to fix rather than a person to support.
• Won't accommodate or coordinate with your other providers.

Green Flags

• Asks about your child's strengths, not just deficits.
• Listens to your concerns as the expert on your child.
• Offers a free or low-cost consultation before committing.
• Names a specific approach and explains it in plain language.
• Welcomes questions and second opinions.
• Has a clear neuroaffirmative framework, in writing.

If you'd like to talk through whether we're the right fit for what you or your child need, we offer a free 30-minute consultation. No pressure, no commitment — just a real conversation.