School or Clinic? Finding the Best Path for Your Child’s Growth

Why Choose Clinic-Based Therapy?

When it comes to supporting your child’s growth, you want the best environment for their therapy. Families often wonder whether they should rely on school-based services or seek therapy in a clinic setting. Both have value, but they offer very different experiences. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you understand the pros and cons of each.

Benefits of Clinic-Based Therapy

Dedicated Therapy Time

In our clinic, therapy sessions are uninterrupted and focused. This allows your child to get the most out of each visit.

Personalized Attention

Because our therapists work with smaller caseloads than schools, they can tailor each session to your child’s unique needs.

Consistent Scheduling

Our dedicated scheduler helps your family stick to a reliable routine, making therapy easier to manage week after week.

Long-Term Progress Tracking

With regular sessions in one setting, we can closely monitor and support your child’s growth over time.

Family Involvement

Parents are a key part of the therapy process. At the clinic, you’ll have opportunities to learn strategies, ask questions, and help your child carry progress into daily life.

Comprehensive Support

Because we qualify patients based on medical necessity, your child receives individualized care designed to address their specific needs—not just academic concerns.

Challenges of Clinic-Based Therapy

Scheduling Around School and Work

After-school and evening appointments are in high demand, so sometimes families may need to adjust their schedules or bring children during school hours.

Benefits of School-Based Therapy

Convenience

Therapy happens right at school, so families don’t need to travel or change routines.

Fits Within the School Day

Sessions are built into school hours, which can help minimize disruptions at home.

Challenges of School-Based Therapy

Strict Qualification Rules

Students must meet specific academic criteria to qualify for services, which means some children who need help may not be eligible.

Larger Caseloads

School therapists often serve many students, leaving less time for one-on-one therapy.

Shorter Sessions

Some school-based therapy sessions are very brief—sometimes only 7–15 minutes a month.

Less Parent Communication

Because therapy happens at school, parents may not have regular updates or chances to connect directly with the therapist.

Pull-Out Services

Students are often pulled from class, which may mean missing out on favorite activities or needing to catch up on classwork.

Breaks in Service

School calendars include long breaks and holidays, which can interrupt therapy progress.

Finding the Right Fit for Your Family

Both clinic-based and school-based therapy can play an important role in supporting your child. School services offer convenience and alignment with the school day, while clinic-based therapy provides consistent, individualized, and family-centered care. Many families even choose to combine both for the best of both worlds.

At the end of the day, the right choice is the one that best supports your child’s unique needs—and gives your family the confidence and tools to help them thrive.

If you would like to ask any questions about this topic, please don't hesitate to do so! Our number is 253.237.3405.