PAEC Department of OT/PT
In the educational environment occupational therapy and physical therapy are provided to assist a student to access their educational program. Occupational therapy and physical therapy, in the educational setting, have traditionally been classified as “related services”. This therapy is provided to enhance the student's ability to adapt to and function in their educational environment. As members of multidisciplinary teams, occupational therapists and physical therapists also assist in determining appropriate programs for those students with disabilities. All therapy within the educational setting must have a relationship to educational performance while directly impacting the student's ability to benefit from their educational experiences. School-based therapy is not intended to meet all the therapy needs of a student, but is intended to meet needs of the student to promote success in the educational environment.
School – based therapy is integrated into the school's educational program as a means to enhance functioning and attain educational objectives. Occupational therapists and physical therapists provide support to the total educational system. They assist with problem solving to eliminate barriers that hinder access to educational environments and assist with modifications and accommodations to support students in their regular education program.
Types of therapy personnel include: Occupational Therapists (OTR), requiring a bachelor's, master's, or doctoral level of professional education. Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTA) who has been granted a certificate by an institution of higher education approved by ACOTE. Physical Therapists (PT), requiring a bachelor's, master's, or doctoral level of professional education. Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) is a graduate of a physical therapist assistant associate degree program. All practicing therapists in the state of Illinois are required to maintain an active state license provided by the Illinois Department of Professional Regulations.