Shriners Children’s outpatient therapy program provides the highest quality pediatric specialty care to improve a child’s level of function and promote maximum independence.

Shriners Children’s offers outpatient therapy services for children with acute and chronic orthopedic and sport-related conditions, neuro and neuromuscular conditions, limb differences, post-surgical needs, craniofacial differences and burn injuries. Services may include occupational therapy, physical therapy and speech therapy. A child may require only one type of therapy or multiple therapies, depending on their condition, needs and treatment plan.

Our experienced pediatric specialists evaluate each patient based on their current age and function. Therapists work directly with families to set personalized, realistic goals that they commit to working on outside of therapy appointments.

Shriners Children’s practices an episodic care model, which means the length of time and frequency of therapy are based on the child’s needs, goals and family involvement. Therapy schedules range from short, intensive episodes of care to less frequent visits, but longer episodes of care. Breaks are often built into the schedules to ensure that children have a chance to retain and apply their new skills in everyday life. Each unique therapy schedule is determined by many factors including a therapist’s clinical discretion.

Patient works on hand strength with physical therapist

Lee Ann works hard in occupational therapy to build her arm strength and increase her independence.

Frequently Asked Questions About Outpatient Therapy

Who can receive pediatric outpatient therapy at Shriners Children’s?

The pediatric outpatient therapy program at Shriners Children’s provides comprehensive treatment for children birth to 18 years of age, regardless of insurance status or the family’s ability to pay.

How long are therapy appointments?

Depending on the type of therapy, most appointments are either 30 or 60 minutes.

Can I schedule my child for therapy?

Yes! All we need to schedule a therapy evaluation is a copy of a referral from an outside provider or one of our doctors here at Shriners Children’s.

Will I be involved in my child’s therapy?

To achieve the best results, parents are expected to help their child set goals and apply skills from therapy in daily life. Every plan of care requires the patient to practice skills outside of therapy, based on their therapist’s recommendations.

Everyone at Shriners has been AMAZING! The progress Cooper has made under your love, care and direction has been miraculous! We love and appreciate you all and are so thankful you are on this journey with us.
Abigail Bell, Mother of Shriners Children's Erie patient

Experienced Providers

Shriners Children’s therapists have extensive specialty pediatric education, training and experience and work together to create powerful treatment strategies that are fun and with a focus on results. All therapies take place in a pediatric setting, with age-appropriate equipment and tools. Depending on location, features such as state of the art equipment, outdoor playgrounds and aquatic therapy pools may be included in a patient’s plan of care.

At Shriners Children’s we value comprehensive care and open communication. Our pediatric specialists work closely not only with each other, but also with referring doctors, schools and family members to track a child’s progress. We also help families connect with other services and resources if needed.

Patient practices boxing with physical therapist

The Right Treatment at the Right Place

Some locations offer additional therapy options, including inpatient therapy or intensive outpatient rehabilitation. Your care team will talk to you about these options if they could benefit your child. Specific treatment and services may vary by location. Please contact a specific location for more information.

Outpatient Therapy Services

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy at Shriners Children's helps children build confidence and strength, focusing on what is important to them and what they love to do in their daily lives.

Next Steps

Request an Appointment

Families and caregivers seeking treatment should start by contacting us for an appointment.

Log in to the Patient Portal

Parents and guardians of existing patients can email, request records, schedule appointments and more.

Refer a Patient

Physicians and healthcare providers can request appointments, start transfers or contact us with questions.