Pediatric Occupational Therapy vs. Mental Health Therapy: What’s the Difference?

How do caregivers know if occupational therapy or mental health therapy is the right fit for their child? While both provide many benefits, they serve different purposes. Let’s break down the key differences, similarities, and how to choose the best path for your child.

What is Pediatric Occupational Therapy (OT)?

Occupational therapy practitioners (OTPs) are distinctly qualified to assess and analyze the relationship between person, environment, and occupation in order to promote meaningful participation in everyday life. Occupational therapy practitioners are committed to supporting clients in occupational engagement through a client-centered approach.

Pediatric occupational therapy supports kids & teens to develop the skills they need to participate in everyday activities and address specific barriers that hinder participation. Pediatric OTPs look at the “whole child” by assessing and treating differences in:

• fine motor, visual motor, & gross motor skills

• sensory processing, emotional regulation, and self-advocacy

• executive functioning

• activities of daily living

While a formal diagnosis isn’t required to benefit from occupational therapy services, OTPs often work with kids who present with the following diagnoses:

• Autism

• ADHD

• Down syndrome

• Cerebral palsy

• Developmental delays

• Sensory processing differences 

For kids, occupations include:

• Participation in daily routines and self-care (e.g., dressing, hygiene, feeding, sleep, etc.)

• Play (e.g., exploring interests, problem-solving, gross motor skills, building ball skills)

• School readiness (e.g., scissor skills, handwriting, executive functioning, other fine and visual motor skills)

• Meaningful social connection (e.g., building friendships, self-advocacy, exploration of social situations)

• Supporting regulation to participate in daily activities (e.g., sensory processing, sensory regulation, body awareness, and emotional regulation)

• Supporting environmental access through adaptations, strategies, and accommodations

Source: AOTA

How does Occupational Therapy Support Mental Health? 

Occupational therapy is uniquely suited to support mental health by: 

• Targeting mental health promotion and prevention

• Fostering participation in health-promoting occupations (e.g., meaningful activities, eating, exercise, sleep); identification and implementation of habits and routines to support overall wellness

• Supporting a client’s ability in developing interoceptive awareness, or increased understanding of their internal body cues to help individuals understand their emotional and sensory needs

• Supporting the development of coping strategies

• Educating on and implementing environmental modifications to foster participation in health-promoting, enjoyable occupations

• Promoting mental health literacy

  • Educating individuals and their caregivers on mental health, mental illness, signs that additional support is needed, and activities that promote mental health

  • Knowing how to take care of one’s mental health and what to do when experiencing symptoms associated with decreased mental health

What is Pediatric Mental Health Therapy?

Pediatric mental health therapy - such as play therapy, talk therapy, or family therapy - supports emotional growth and psychological healing. This type of therapy can support children in processing:

• Emotional regulation concerns, including expressing and processing emotions

• Behavioral concerns

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Trauma (past or current)

Depending on the child’s specific needs, you may choose one of the following mediums to support their mental health:

• Play therapy utilizes play-based toys, activities, and strategies as a medium for children to explore and express various emotions and behaviors.

• Talk therapy supports children and teens in understanding and managing their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors through conversation-based methods. 

• Family therapy involves working with the entire family system to improve communication, strengthen relationships, and address patterns or dynamics that may be contributing to a child’s emotional or behavioral concerns. It helps families build tools for connection, conflict resolution, and support.

The Continuum of Mental Health

(AOTA, 2016)

Key Differences Between OT and Mental Health Therapy

OT addresses both the body and the mind

Occupational therapy practitioners assess how the body’s physical, sensory, and cognitive systems are impacting a child’s ability to engage in meaningful activities. OTPs support a child’s development and independence. OTPs also have a unique background in sensory processing, which often impacts a child’s overall regulation. 

Mental health therapy focuses on emotional and psychological well-being

Therapists support clients in exploring various emotions, addressing psychological concerns, processing difficult experiences, and building emotional resilience. 

How OT and Mental Health Therapy Overlap

Though each specialty is distinct, both share several important qualities:

• Play-based: Both therapies utilize play as a powerful medium for learning and growth. 

• Holistic: Both therapies aim to support the child’s overall wellbeing.

• Personalized: Treatment plans are designed to meet the unique needs of the child.

• Safe & supportive environments: Each provides a space where children can feel safe, seen, and supported. 

When to Choose One…Or Both

If your child is primarily struggling with daily life skills, executive functioning, sensory processing, or motor skills, OT may be the best starting point. If the main concerns are related to emotional distress, trauma, anxiety, or depression, a pediatric mental health therapist may be a better fit. In some cases, a child may benefit from a combination of both occupational therapy and mental health therapy to ensure the most comprehensive support for their development and wellbeing. 

At Blume, we recognize the importance of collaborative care. If your child’s needs fall outside the scope of occupational therapy, we will always refer you to a trusted mental health professional. Our team is ethically committed to making sure your child receives the most appropriate care, whether that’s through us, a mental health specialist, or a combined team approach.

Still unsure where to start? 

Reach out to us! We’re here to guide you through the next step and help you find the support that fits your child best.

References: 

1. American Occupational Therapy Association. (2016). Occupational Therapy’s Distinct Value. https://www.aota.org/-/media/Corporate/Files/Practice/MentalHealth/Distinct-Value-Mental-Health.pdf

2. OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY IN MENTAL AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH. (n.d.). https://www.aota.org/-/media/corporate/files/advocacy/federal/overview-of-ot-in-mental-health.pdf

3. sdkf. (2024). Occupational Therapy vs. Psychotherapy. San Diego Kids First. https://sdkidsfirst.com/occupational-therapy-vs-psychotherapy/

4. Care:, PSnow, Shauni, COTA. (2024). Navigating Pediatric Care: Occupational Therapy vs. Mental Health Specialists for Your Child. Ability Innovations. https://www.abilityinnovations.com/blog/navigating-pediatric-care-occupational-therapy-vs-mental-health-specialist-for-your-child

5. Pediatric Mental Health, how an Occupational Therapist can help | Triumph Therapeutics. (2023). https://www.triumphtherapeutics.com/pediatric-mental-health-how-an-occupational-therapist-can-help/