What is the difference between occupational therapy in a clinic and occupational therapy at school?

The primary difference between school-based and clinic-based OT is the model which each of them uses. School-based OT uses an educational model that focuses on education and academic performance and is governed by IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act).

Clinic-based OT follows the medical model that focuses on working with the diagnoses is prescribed by a doctor and often directed by insurance. A child may need school-based OT, clinic-based OT or both.

What is school based occupational therapy?

School-based OT intervention usually starts with the teacher, parent, or other involved person identifying a student who is struggling academically and requesting an IEP. School-based OT services are federally mandated under IDEA and are provided by the school at no charge to the parent. The IEP team, in consultation with the OT, will determine if OT testing is warranted and, if so, what areas will be tested.

School-based OT testing and interventions are ONLY done in areas that may be impacting the student academically. OT in the school is considered a “related” service, meaning it focuses on tasks that relate to the educational needs of the student. Some schools may include an OT as a consultant in a 504 plan.

School Occupational Therapy Web Page