Does my child need an educational therapist?

An educational therapist (ET) is a professional who combines educational and therapeutic approaches for evaluation, individualized intervention, case management, and advocacy on behalf of children and adults with learning disabilities or other learning challenges. Unlike tutors who work with a student on classwork, homework, and tests (essentially reinforcing what was already taught in the classroom), an ET focuses on addressing the causes of the individual’s academic challenges. ETs are often hired to help those with attention or learning challenges, who need support with executive functioning skills, or who need specialized instruction. If your child has higher support needs, you’ll want to look for an ET who has experience working in special education with kids who have more significant disabilities.

For more information on what educational therapists do, check out our article Educational Therapy 101.