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Therapists and Specialist Practitioners

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Therapists and Specialist Practitioners

Contents

What therapists do
Types of therapy in SEN support
How therapy helps education
Getting a therapy assessment
Working with schools and EHCPs
Finding and funding a therapist
Related guidance

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What therapists do

Therapists and specialist practitioners support children and young people with additional needs in areas that affect learning, communication, movement, or emotional health.
 They work alongside teachers, parents and local authorities to help each child reach their potential.

Therapists may work independently, through schools, or as part of EOTAS and EHCP packages.

Related guidance

  • EHCP process
  • EOTAS packages
  • SEN Wellbeing
  • Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)
  • Speech and Language
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    Types of therapy in SEN support

    Speech and Language Therapy (SLT)
    Helps with speech sounds, understanding language, expressing ideas, and social communication.
    Occupational Therapy (OT)
    Supports fine motor skills, sensory regulation, independence and everyday activities.
    Physiotherapy
    Improves strength, balance and mobility for children with physical or neurological needs.
    Play or Art Therapy
    Uses creative expression to explore emotions, trauma or anxiety.
    Counselling and Psychotherapy
    Supports emotional wellbeing, relationships and resilience in children and young people.
    Music and Drama Therapy
    Uses rhythm, movement and performance to aid communication and confidence.
    Learn about therapy types
    Explore the range of professionals who support SEN development.

    How therapy helps education

    Therapeutic input can:
    • improve focus, attention and participation in learning 
    • reduce anxiety or sensory distress 
    • develop communication and social skills 
    • support fine and gross motor skills 
    • build confidence and emotional regulation 

    Therapy is often delivered alongside academic tutoring, especially in EOTAS or specialist settings.

    See how therapy supports learning outcomes
    Understand the link between therapeutic progress and education.

    Getting a therapy assessment

    Therapy assessments can be:

    • school-based, through the SENCO or local authority services

    • NHS referrals, usually via a GP or paediatrician

    • private assessments, arranged by parents or EOTAS providers

    Assessments typically include observation, structured tasks, and written reports with recommendations.

    These reports can be used as evidence for EHCPs or to plan targeted interventions.

    Find out how to arrange a therapy assessment

    Working with schools and EHCPs

    Therapists should work collaboratively with teachers, tutors and families.
     Their advice may be written into:

    • EHCP Section F (educational provision)

    • Individual Education Plans (IEPs)

    • School Support Plans

    Therapists can also train staff in sensory regulation, communication support or safe movement handling.

    Learn how therapists contribute to EHCPs
    Understand how therapy outcomes are embedded in education plans.

    Finding and funding a therapist

    Therapy can be funded through:

    • an EHCP or local authority EOTAS package

    • NHS community services (where eligible)

    • private sessions, paid directly by families or schools

    When choosing a therapist, check:

    • qualifications and professional registration (HCPC, RCSLT, RCOT, BACP, UKCP)

    • enhanced DBS and safeguarding training

    • experience with your child’s age and condition

    External resources:

    NHS: Find a therapist
    Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)
    Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT)
    Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT)

    Find a qualified therapist

    Browse speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, counsellors and physiotherapists who support children with additional needs.

    Search for SEN therapists and specialists near you