Pediatric therapists have an unmatched passion for helping children thrive — whether it’s finding their voice or achieving milestones that build confidence and independence. For therapists seeking career growth that aligns with their core values, school-based therapy presents remarkable opportunities.
At Care Options for Kids, we recognize the importance of collaboration among therapists, families, educators, and the children we serve. Our range of school-based services creates a unique environment where collaboration drives meaningful progress.
That’s why we’re shining a light on this special care model and revealing why so many occupational therapists (OTs), speech-language pathologists (SLPs), and other pediatric specialists are choosing this path. Find out how this unique setting can offer meaningful work that supports your personal well-being and professional growth!
What Are School-Based Therapy Services?
School-based services bring therapeutic support directly to children within their educational environment. Care Options for Kids works closely with school districts to provide essential pediatric therapies — including speech therapy, occupational therapy, and behavioral support — during the school day.
Our therapists work with students who have specialized needs, including kids who have Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) or 504 plans. Services are delivered either one-on-one or in small groups, depending on each child’s needs, and often involve collaboration with teachers, special education staff, and parents to ensure that goals are aligned and achievable in the classroom setting.
This model meets children where they are — literally and developmentally — so therapy becomes a natural part of their day-to-day learning. It also enables real-time feedback, classroom observation, and the opportunity to tailor interventions in truly impactful ways.
School-Based Therapy Roles
At Care Options for Kids, our school-based clinicians go beyond being service providers — they become integral members of the educational team. If you’re an OT, SLP, or another pediatric therapy professional, you’ll find roles that value your expertise and give you the freedom to make a difference on your terms.
Occupational Therapists (OTs): Help students develop the skills they need for academic participation, from fine motor coordination and handwriting to sensory integration and self-regulation.
Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs): Support communication and language development, working on speech sounds, language comprehension, social communication, and feeding when appropriate.
Behavioral Professionals and More: We also offer opportunities for school psychologists, paraprofessionals, registered behavior technicians, board-certified behavior analysts, and other professionals who are essential to student success. Whether you’re helping with behavioral development, mental health, or academic planning, your work contributes to a holistic approach to child development.
Through our partnerships with districts across the country, we offer placements that provide you with the opportunity to find a setting that best fits your strengths and interests.
Why Clinicians Love School-Based Services
There’s a reason so many pediatric therapists are transitioning to school-based roles. Clinicians at Care Options for Kids experience a better way to work that offers excellent work-life balance and a supportive environment:
Daytime and Weekday Hours
School-based therapy generally follows the academic calendar, which means it operates on Monday through Friday schedules during school hours. It’s a consistent, family-friendly routine that can make a big difference in the daily life of therapists, especially if you’re a working parent.
A Set Location
Rather than traveling to multiple homes or clinics, school-based therapists typically work in a school setting, providing services on-site. This can mean less commuting, reduced logistical challenges, and the ability to build strong relationships with the staff and students you see regularly.
Better Work-Life Balance
Whether you’re a parent with school-aged kids or someone who values downtime in the evenings and weekends, school-based therapy supports a healthier work-life rhythm. When your workday mirrors the school day, you’re free to spend quality time with your family, pursue hobbies, or just recharge without burning the candle at both ends.
A Community of Support
Working in a school gives you the chance to collaborate daily, not just with students, but with teachers, administrators, and other therapists. It’s a team-based environment where you’re surrounded by people who share your commitment to helping children succeed.
The Care Options for Kids Difference
We know that thriving clinicians lead to thriving kids. That’s why Care Options for Kids is deeply committed to offering therapy careers in a positive, empowering culture where you can do your best work — and feel good doing it.
When you join our school-based team, you become part of a community that values connection, communication, and career development. We offer:
- Supportive clinical leadership
- Opportunities for mentorship and continuing education
- A focus on your professional goals
- A sense of belonging and shared purpose
- Amazing benefits, including health plans, PTO, and continuing education credits
We’re proud to offer a community where therapists feel seen, supported, and inspired. And we’re always on the lookout for great people.
Ready to Make an Impact?
School-based services represent a powerful partnership between you and the children you serve, between therapy and education, and between your career and the life you want to live.
If you’re looking for a way to keep doing the work you love while enjoying more balance, more stability, and more support, school-based therapy might be the perfect fit.
Join the Care Options For Kids Team!
Are you ready for meaningful work that comes with benefits and not burnout? Join the compassionate care team that helps children and families live their best lives. Our clinicians provide best-in-class pediatric nursing, therapy, and school-based services. We bring individualized care to children where they live, work, and play. We have opportunities in homes, schools, and clinics across the country.
Apply now at Care Options for Kids. We make it easy to start so you can make a difference as soon as possible.
