Occupational Therapist

We are seeking a licensed Occupational Therapist to evaluate and treat children with developmental disabilities, helping them build the skills they need for daily life at home, at school, and in the community. The ideal candidate brings hands-on pediatric experience with conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, sensory processing differences, and global developmental delay.

This role works closely with families, educators, and a multidisciplinary team to deliver individualized, play-based, family-centered care.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive evaluations using standardized and observational tools (e.g., Peabody Developmental Motor Scales, BOT-2, Sensory Profile 2, Beery VMI).
• Develop individualized treatment plans with measurable goals aligned to each child's developmental, sensory, and functional needs.
• Deliver direct therapy addressing fine motor, visual-motor, sensory regulation, self-care/ADLs, feeding, play, and social participation skills.
• Apply evidence-based approaches such as sensory integration, motor learning, and positive behavior supports.
• Recommend, fabricate, or train families on adaptive equipment, assistive technology, and environmental modifications.
• Coach parents and caregivers with home programs and strategies that carry progress into daily routines.
• Collaborate with speech-language pathologists, BCBAs, and other clinicians.
• Document evaluations, progress notes, and discharge summaries accurately and on time, meeting payer and regulatory requirements.
• Supervise Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs) and mentor students or new staff where applicable.
• Maintain a safe, engaging, and inclusive treatment environment and uphold confidentiality (HIPAA/FERPA).

Required Qualifications

• Master's or Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from an ACOTE-accredited program.
• Current NBCOT certification.
• Active (or eligible) Michigan Occupational Therapist license, issued through the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).
• Minimum [2+] years of clinical experience working with children with developmental disabilities (e.g., autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, sensory processing disorder, developmental delay).
• Demonstrated experience with pediatric assessment tools and writing measurable, functional goals.
• Current CPR/BLS certification.
• Ability to pass a criminal background check (including Michigan State Police ICHAT), a Michigan Central Registry (child abuse/neglect) clearance, and any required health screenings.

Preferred Qualifications

• Sensory Integration certification (e.g., SIPT or EASI) or Ayres Sensory Integration training.
• Training in feeding therapy (e.g., SOS Approach to Feeding) or handwriting programs (e.g., Handwriting Without Tears).
• Experience in early intervention (Birth–3), school-based, or outpatient pediatric settings.
• Familiarity with ABA settings and collaborating with BCBAs.
• Experience with electronic medical records and insurance documentation.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong clinical reasoning and the ability to adapt treatment to each child's developmental level and motivation.
• Patience, warmth, and creativity in play-based therapy.
• Clear, compassionate communication with children, families, and team members.
• Cultural sensitivity and a family-centered approach.
• Organization and time management to handle a caseload and meet documentation deadlines.
• Commitment to evidence-based practice and ongoing professional development.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Frequent floor-level work, kneeling, bending, and squatting during play-based sessions.
• Ability to respond quickly to support child safety, including during behavioral or sensory dysregulation.