Educational Therapy

Providers of educational therapy, such as speech therapy and occupational therapy, must be registered by SEAA to participate in the ESA+ program (Direct Payment schools that offer therapy do not need to register separately as providers).  

What Educational Therapy Services Are Allowed? 

Educational therapy must be adaptive/therapeutic in nature or designed for students with special needs. Examples include: applied behavior analysis therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy. 

Music therapy, art therapy, therapeutic horseback riding lessons/equine therapy: allowable if they are adaptive/therapeutic in nature and administered by someone with a professional credential for their field.  

ESA+ funds can pay for services provided by therapists who are registered with SEAA but not necessarily products recommended by the therapist. See the lists of Educational Technology and Curricula to find out if a product is approved.  

 

How Do I Find Registered Educational Therapists? 

SEAA Provider Search Site: enter the search term “therapy” to see a statewide list of therapists who are registered with the ESA+ program. Providers who wish to register should visit the Register a Provider page. 

 

 

Other Considerations

Insurance

• ESA+ Funds can be used for medical insurance co-pays or to cover a service once medical insurance has been exhausted.
• Families may pre-pay for a block of sessions with an educational therapy provider each semester.

 

How Many Times May a Student See an Educational Therapist? 

The ESA+ program does not limit the number of educational therapy visits.

 

Is Proof of Diagnosis Required?

The ESA+ program does not require families to provide a diagnosis to receive educational therapy services.