Occupational Therapy for Children and Adults with Autism

What is Occupational Therapy?

Occupational Therapy (OT) is a supportive, goal-oriented intervention that helps individuals with autism participate more fully in everyday life. It focuses on building independence, developing functional skills, and improving sensory processing to support meaningful routines at home, school, work, and in the community.

What Does Occupational Therapy Address?

  • Daily Living Skills (e.g., dressing, eating, hygiene, chores)

  • Fine and Gross Motor Skills (e.g., handwriting, coordination, balance)

  • Social and Play Skills

  • Executive Functioning (e.g., attention, organization, task planning)

  • Sensory Processing Integration

  • Emotional Regulation and Coping Strategies

Sensory Processing Integration

Many individuals with autism experience challenges with sensory processing, meaning their brains may overreact or underreact to sights, sounds, textures, smells, or movement.

OT Helps By:

  • Assessing Sensory sensitivities or sensory-seeking behaviors

  • Creating sensory diets ( personalized activities to help regulate input )

  • Providing strategies and equipment ( e.g., weighted blankets, fidget tools, noise-canceling headphones )

  • Teaching self-awareness and coping strategies for managing sensory overload or dysregulation

This leads to improved comfort, focus, and participation in everyday activities.

Benefits of OT for Children with Autism

  • Develops self-care and independence ( toileting, dressing, eating )

  • Improves motor coordination for school and play

  • Enhances emotional regulation and self-soothing

  • Supports participation in classroom and social settings

  • Helps children better tolerate and respond to sensory experiences

Benefits of OT for Adults with Autism

  • Builds skills for independent living ( e.g., cooking, money management, self-care )

  • Supports success in vocational and educational settings

  • Improves time management, organization, and routine-building

  • Assists in managing sensory challenges in daily life ( e.g., work environments, public spaces )

  • Encourages confidence and autonomy

Where OT Services Are Provided

  • Clinics or therapy centers

  • Schools and early intervention programs

  • In-home services

  • Community-based or workplace settings

Why Choose Occupational Therapy?

  • It’s individualized to each person’s needs and goals.

  • It helps improve function, comfort, and quality of life.

  • It addresses both physical and sensory needs, providing tools for long-term success.

  • It empowers individuals to navigate their environments with more ease and confidence.

Occupational therapy offers practical, holistic support to individuals with autism, helping them thrive in daily routines, relationships, and responsibilities. Through skill-building and sensory integration, OT promotes independence, self-regulation, and a greater sense of well-being at every stage of life.

Occupational Therapy Team

  • Aimee Klock

    Occupational Therapist (OTR/L)

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