Evaluations

Evaluations | Treatment | Groups | Screenings | Forms

When your child comes to Positive Steps for an Occupational therapy evaluation, we at Positive Steps will guide you through the process and make it as easy as possible.  We understand this is an overwhelming process and we strive to make you and your child feel as comfortable as possible.

Step 1: Please call to set up a phone consultation. During the phone call, we will discuss the reasons you are seeking occupational therapy for your child and answer any questions you may have – (973) 994-4464. After the phone consultation, you will be asked to complete a new client packet. These forms can be e-mailed to you or downloaded by going to the homepage, scrolling to the bottom and clicking “Click here for the new client packet”. Please bring the completed forms with you at the time of your appointment.

Step 2: The evaluation is typically 1 ½ – 2 hours with a parent consultation afterwards to go over initial impressions, discuss goals and formulate a treatment plan for your child. If warranted, we will communicate with your child’s other therapists or teachers to give Positive Steps the best picture of your child. A combination of clinical observation, parent reports, and standardized tests chosen specifically for your child will assess the following areas:

  • Behavioral Observations – How your child transitions, acclimates to a new situation, ability to participate in all areas of evaluation such as: following directions, eye contact…
  • Neuromuscular Assessment – Muscle tone, postural control and upper body stability
  • Gross Motor – Screening of age appropriate gross motor skills
  • Sensory Processing Skills – How your child’s nervous system processes information from the environment and produces an response.
  • Visual Motor/Visual Perceptual Skills – How well your child’s eyes and hands work together
  • Fine Motor Skills – Evaluate the small muscle movements that occur in the hands, wrists and arms
  • ADL/Self Care – Ability to perform age appropriate self care tasks such as tying shoes, brushing teeth, getting dressed, feeding independently

Step 3: A formal written report will be provided shortly after the evaluation.  Once you receive the evaluation, we will set up a meeting to go over the results of the evaluation and any questions you may have.

Step 4: If treatment is needed at this time, we will determine the frequency, duration and intensity of the sessions.  Depending on your child’s needs, a home program and or consultation with your child’s school will begin at this time.