Occupational Therapy (OT) is a Related Special Education Service – Related Services are designed to assist special education students in meeting goals and objectives established by the IEP or 504 team.  Frequently, OT can, and should, participate as a member of the multidisciplinary evaluation team.  However, a student must be found eligible for special education in one or more eligibility category or qualify under section 504 to receive direct intervention from a Related Service provider.  Related services should never be added to an IEP or 504 plan prior to completion of an evaluation from a licensed OT.

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   Occupational Therapy is provided in public schools under IDEA to ensure a student with a disability can access their educational program.  The term “Related Service” as applied to OT is a corrective supportive service which may be required to assist a child with a disability to benefit from special education.  Following evaluation by a licensed OT, if the student is found to present with a weakness that aligns with their IEP goals and objectives OT services may be needed.  The OT works with the student and their teacher to ensure access to IEP goals targeting specially designed instruction to make progress in the general education curriculum. 

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Helpful Links:

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OT & PT Overview

Characteristics of Educationally Relevant Therapy

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OT Referral Flowchart

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