Co-Treatment: How it can help your child get the most out of their therapy

There are enough new words and terms in the world of therapy to send anyone’s head spinning. To a therapist, these concepts are simply part of our daily lives, and we can sometimes forget that they aren’t a part of everyone’s. One concept that often confuses parents is Co-Treatment, often referred to as a “cotreat” for short. So, let’s break it down:

What exactly is a cotreat?

A cotreat is a collaborative session for your child, in which two skilled therapists from different disciplines work together with your child in the same session. This arrangement can be a combination of any two disciplines – Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Physical Therapy, or Behavioral Therapy. The intervention focuses on a joint approach towards goals for the child, using skills from both disciplines in order to help your child succeed.

Why does my child need a cotreat?

A cotreat recommendation comes from your child’s therapist. Generally, this suggestion comes after therapy begins with one discipline. A cotreat is often utilized in order to promote success towards goals for your child – the use of two collaborative therapists enhances and expedites progress towards functional outcomes. If the need for a cotreat is indicated, your child’s therapist will begin the process of bringing another discipline on board. Let’s look at an example:

Anna is a 4-year-old female, who is having difficulty with overall behaviors, expressive/receptive language, and regulation. She begins with Occupational Therapy first. Within the first few sessions, Anna’s OT recognizes that she is having difficulty following 1 step directions within sessions, even when she is focused. She also notices that Anna becomes highly frustrated when attempting to communicate her wants and needs, often leading to meltdowns that limit the productivity of her OT sessions. Anna’s OT then begins the process of bringing Speech Therapy in for a cotreat in order to help Anna build her expressive language in order to assist with her overall regulation. Through a team approach, Anna begins to make great strides in both her speech and occupational goals!

Doesn’t a cotreat mean less therapy time for my child?

On paper, yes. If a child is receiving two services independent of each other, they will spend more time within the clinic. However, it’s the productivity and quality of intervention that matters most for your child’s progress and overall success. One great 45-minute session with two therapists who can meet your child’s needs in a holistic manner is far more productive than two separate sessions when it is necessary.

Can I request a cotreat for my child?

A cotreatment recommendation must come from your therapist. If your therapist has not indicated the need for a cotreatment, it is most likely not necessary. Even if your child receives multiple services, combining sessions is not always appropriate. If you have concerns, your child’s therapist will answer any questions you have.

Lyndsey Mullins, MS, OTR/L