What is occupational therapy?
Occupational Therapists are independently licensed healthcare professionals who work with people in whatever settings (where they “occupy”- get it?) there is difficulty with daily functioning. They want to support you in your goals for health, well-being and participation.
The transition to parenthood is smooth for some, but for many others, there are unexpected challenges. New moms often suffer in silence, because they tell themselves they are failing if they ask for help.
This is not true!
Most insurance plans cover OT, and we are happy to submit on your behalf. Please scroll to the bottom of the page under “Getting Started” for next steps. Check back for updates on these carriers.
Types of OT offered at Iris Mental Health
Pelvic Health OT
Pelvic floor muscles support the uterus, bladder, large intestine and rectum. And most women believe that the problems that can occur are just something that is “normal” and that you have to live with. Just because pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) is common does NOT mean it is “normal”, or that there is nothing you can do about it.
Your risk of PFD can increase due to:
The weight gained during pregnancy that puts pressure on the pelvic floor
Straining from constipation or pushing during a vaginal delivery (or an attempt at a vaginal delivery)
Interventions used during birth (vacuum extraction, forceps) or surgical births.
Diastasis recti (separated abs)
When there is dysfunction in the muscles of the pelvic floor, it can lead to issues such as urinary incontinence & leakage, fecal incontinence, constipation, challenges with sexuality, and pain. All of these can impact your physical, social, and psychological well-being. There is evidence that living with PFD is a risk factor for postpartum depression or anxiety, so it’s important to address the WHOLE you.
Megan will work with you to increase the strength of your pelvic floor from the comfort of your own home or office, so that you can improve functioning and feel better about yourself!
Some people may think it’s a little unusual to meet with someone virtually for OT, but we think it’s a great fit for those who:
lack access to childcare or transportation
have had traumatic experiences with healthcare workers or struggle with being touched
have a hard time finding extra time for another health appointment
have anxiety about leaving home
have difficulty getting extra time off work (Have a conference room or a larger office? That’s all you need!)
Meeting virtually saves you time, and is just as effective as meeting in person!
Perinatal or Postpartum OT
OT during pregnancy can help with…
Fatigue and pain management
Preparing the home environment for baby to come home
Continuing with exercise while pregnant
How to best prepare your body for labor
Preparing to add another child to the family
OT after pregnancy can help with…
Ergonomics for baby cares (diaper changes, feeding, baths) including body mechanics and environmental set up
Physical recovery after birth, including c section recovery and return to exercise
Breastfeeding support
Concerns related to sleep
Adjusting to the new role of motherhood and developing a daily routine
Co-occupations and bonding
Self-care and regulation for both mom and baby
Typical development for baby
Pediatric OT
Supporting children from birth to age 18 to target developmental delays and promote optimal development, increase independence in daily tasks and meaningful activities, and improve self-regulation, emotional regulation, and sensory processing skills. There are many areas that Pediatric OT can help with!
For babies, toddlers & young children:
Sensory processing differences (sounds, foods, clothing, textures)
Potty training challenges
Brain boosting activities
Easing transitions between daily activities or separation anxiety
Emotion regulation & “big feelings”
Behavior difficulties
Helping parents create daily routines & plans
Sleep difficulties
For older kids & teens:
Communication skills
Organizational skills & daily routines
Gaining independence & self-care
Improving personal hygiene
Connecting with peers in social settings
Coping with social anxiety
Sensory processing differences (sounds, foods, clothing, textures)
Sleep difficulties
Meet our Occupational Therapists (OT)
Megan miller is a maternal health ot who is passionate about helping new and expectant parents
She will help you get back to completing meaningful daily activities more efficiently and independently. Her approach to intervention involves considering mental health & trauma-related concerns that may underlie current difficulties in daily functioning.
Do you have questions about the transition to parenting?
Do you have concerns about how you will handle daily routines, structure, and transitions once baby arrives?
Are you having difficulty managing pain through pregnancy or postpartum?
If so, Megan will create a plan to make daily life during and after birth less stressful! More about Megan
Shay Theisen is a Pediatric OT who is keenly aware that many kids & Parents are not getting what they need.
She will work with your family to help you feel more successful in your daily life, and identify underlying challenges that may be contributing to challenges at home, school or childcare settings.
Are you noticing that your child has difficulty transitioning between activities?
Have you been concerned that your child seems ‘overly sensitive’ or is a ‘picky eater’?
Do you worry that your child isn’t hitting their milestones on time- like walking, potty training, or motor skills?
If so, Shay will work with your family to help offer skills & a plan to set you up for success! More about Shay.
Consultations
Would you like some guidance, but aren’t sure if you want to commit to OT? Consider scheduling a consultation.
Ask questions & get resources about topics related to pregnancy, postpartum and/or parenting. This can give you a start, and determine next steps.
Consultations are NOT billable to insurance.
Pricing:
30 minutes $50
45 minutes $75
60 minutes $100
Getting Started
Here are some steps to quicken the process to getting in with an OT!
Review your insurance benefits to determine what is covered for Occupational Therapy. Find out if you need an authorization, or if there is a limit to how many visits you have.
Most insurances require a doctor’s order to cover OT. We can submit information to your doctor on your behalf:
For OT visits with Megan Miller, please complete this Google Form.
For OT visits with Shay Theisen, please complete this Google Form.
Our OTs are currently in-network with Health Partners, Cigna, Aetna, Medica, South Country Health Alliance, Medical Assistance/MA & Ucare. And effective 8/1/24, United Healthcare (UHC, UMR, Surest) & BCBS. We are still pending Tricare.
To contact an OT directly, please visit their bio page (above) for phone number or email address.
