Occupational therapy (OT) helps children with autism develop the skills they need for daily life — from fine motor skills like writing and buttoning clothes to sensory processing, self-care routines, and social interaction. Florida has a large community of occupational therapists who specialize in working with children on the autism spectrum, with providers available across the state from Miami to Jacksonville.
Many OTs in Florida use sensory integration therapy, which helps children who are over- or under-sensitive to sensory input like sounds, textures, or movement. Sessions may include activities that look like play — swinging, climbing, or working with different textures — but are carefully designed to help the child's nervous system process information more effectively.
Florida's early intervention program (Early Steps) provides OT for children under 3, and school-based services are available through the IEP process. For private OT, check whether the therapist has experience with autism specifically, and ask about their approach to sensory processing challenges. Browse occupational therapy providers in Florida using our directory below.