Getting started at Little Pines
Your therapy journey begins here. Here's what the first steps look like, what to expect, and how to reach us along the way.
Welcome to your therapy journey
Beginning therapy is an exciting step, and we understand it can also bring questions and uncertainty. Whether this is your child's first therapy experience or they're continuing services, our goal is to make every family feel welcomed, supported, and informed from the very beginning.
We believe parents and caregivers are the most important members of a child's therapy team. We value your knowledge of your child and encourage open communication at every stage of therapy.
Our team is committed to compassionate, evidence-informed, play-based therapy that helps children develop the skills they need to participate more independently and confidently in everyday life.
Request an Evaluation
Tell us a little about your child and we'll be in touch to talk through next steps. No appointment booking required.
Not sure which service fits? You don't have to know yet.browse what we do or just tell us what you're seeing.
Our therapy process
Every family's path looks a little different, but these are the steps you can expect.
Referral
Most families begin therapy through a referral from a physician or another healthcare provider. If a referral is required by your insurance plan, we'll help guide you through the process.
Comprehensive evaluation
Your child's first appointment is an occupational therapy evaluation. Your therapist reviews your child's history, discusses your concerns and priorities, observes strengths and challenges, completes appropriate assessments, and develops individualized recommendations. You'll receive a written evaluation summarizing findings and recommendations.
Individualized plan of care
Every child receives a treatment plan based on their strengths, needs, goals, and daily routines. Therapy goals are developed collaboratively with your family and designed to support participation at home, school, and in the community.
Parent collaboration
Parents and caregivers are essential members of the therapy team. We encourage questions, collaboration, and shared decision-making throughout your child's therapy journey.
Progress monitoring
Progress is monitored throughout therapy. Your therapist regularly reviews goals, communicates with providers when appropriate, and completes re-evaluations as required by insurance and clinical guidelines.
What to expect at your first visit
Please arrive 10 to 15 minutes early
That gives us time for check-in and any remaining paperwork, so your child's appointment can start unhurried.
Please bring
- Completed intake paperwork, if you haven't already sent it in
- Insurance card and physician referral, if applicable
- Recent evaluation reports or medical records that may be helpful
- Glasses, hearing aids, braces, or adaptive equipment your child uses
- A favorite comfort item, if it helps your child settle in
Staying in touch
We encourage open communication with every family. Please reach out with questions about scheduling, therapy goals, home strategies, progress, insurance, or school collaboration. Therapy works best when families and therapists work together.
Referrals and insurance
Do I need a referral?
Most families begin through a referral from a physician or another healthcare provider. If your insurance plan requires one, we'll help guide you through the process.
How is frequency decided?
By your child's needs, therapist recommendations, physician orders, and insurance authorization, reviewed as your child progresses.
Check your insurance options
See the plans we currently accept, learn how benefit verification works, and find answers to common coverage questions.
View insurance optionsCommon questions
How long are therapy sessions?
Most treatment sessions are approximately 53 to 55 minutes. Evaluation appointments may be longer.
Can I stay during therapy?
Absolutely. Parent participation is welcomed and encouraged, especially during evaluations and whenever it supports your child's success.
What if my child cries?
Some children need extra time to become comfortable in a new environment. Our therapists use patience, play, and relationship-building to help children feel safe and successful.
How often will my child receive therapy?
Frequency is based on your child's needs, therapist recommendations, physician orders, and insurance authorization.
What if we need to cancel?
Please let us know as soon as possible so we can offer the appointment time to another family.
Our promise to your family
- Treat every child with dignity and respect
- Listen to your concerns and goals
- Celebrate every milestone, no matter how small
- Provide evidence-informed, individualized care
- Communicate openly and honestly
- Partner with your family every step of the way
Thank you for choosing Little Pines Pediatric Therapy. We're honored to be part of your child's journey, and we look forward to helping your family grow, learn, and celebrate each new milestone together.