Why is it called occupational therapy when children don’t have jobs?
Your occupation is defined as what a child needs or wants to do that is appropriate for age or life stage. For example, a baby’s occupation is to eat, play, sleep, crawl, and walk, while older children will be occupied with tasks such as writing, typing, organizing schoolwork, and participating in extracurricular activities. Occupational therapy is useful when difficulties with things like strength, coordination, dexterity, attention, or sensory issues prevent a child from independently performing “occupational” activities for his or her age.
Since my child is so young, should we just wait and see?
Not every child that shows a delay of some kind requires intervention, but it’s important to start services as soon as possible if the child needs intervention. Each skill builds off one another and waiting to master these skills may take longer to make progress through these obstacles.
What if I am unsure if my child needs occupational therapy evaluation or services?
Please fill out the contact form with basic information or concerns (this is not a confidential service form, so please no medical information) and Andrea will set up a phone call lasting approximately 20 minutes to discuss your concerns further and make further suggestions or plans. A formal evaluation may be scheduled at this time
What to expect during an occupational therapy evaluation?
An evaluation allows an occupational therapist the opportunity to assess your child’s development. This assessment may include a standardized test, observation through play, and/or parent report. In most cases, it includes all three. Through the evaluation, it will be determined if treatment is necessary.
What to expect during an occupational therapy evaluation?
An evaluation allows an occupational therapist the opportunity to assess your child’s development. This assessment may include a standardized test, observation through play, and/or parent report. In most cases, it includes all three. Through the evaluation, it will be determined if treatment is necessary.
Is there paperwork I need to fill out before the evaluation?
Yes, once the evaluation is scheduled, you will be entered into the Electronic Medical Records system as a new client and you will be given a link to complete the intake paperwork. It is requested to have this paperwork completed at least 48 hours in advance in order to give time to review medical history and information pertaining to the child’s development giving plenty of time prepare for the session.
Do you involve parents in the child’s treatment progress?
Yes! Parents are very important to the child’s success! It is encouraged for the parent to observe and participate if the situation is appropriate, as this is the child’s natural environment. Andrea may ask for less distractions during the session if necessary. Life does not occur in a bubble, therefore therapy in the child’s natural environment is very important. Parent education is apart of every session and is important for carryover which leads to helping the child being more consistent and successful towards reaching their goals.
How do I pay for my services?
Payment is due at the time of service. For your convenience, cash, check and credit card will be accepted. Once you are a new patient and created an account in the electronic medical record system, there is a credit card processing system which will store your credit card for future charges.
Do you take insurance?
No. Not at this time. Private therapy is an investment in your child’s development and provides families with immense support. Millstone Therapy Group is sometimes considered an “Out-Of-Network” provider and will provide a superbill to submit to insurance. Many insurance plans cover “Out-Of-Network” occupational therapy service. An invoice and superbill with proper CPT codes for services will be provided to you per session so that you can submit it to your insurance company. HSA (Health Savings Account) and FSA (Flexible Spending Accounts) may also be used to pay for services directly but it is your responsibility to submit this information to your insurance company. Prior to starting services, it is suggested to reach out to your insurance company regarding their reimbursement policies.
Do you charge for phone calls to my child’s network of providers (I.e., teachers, school therapists, physicians, etc.)?
No, collaboration between all professions is the best way to build a team approach!
Do you have a clinic space?
No, all therapy services will be provided in the child’s home or community as needed. Providing services in the child’s natural environment is important and helps with progress in therapy.
What areas do you serve?
We serve children and young adults within their homes and communities in western Prince William County, VA and surrounding areas.
