Every child’s brain and body work together to shape how they move, learn, and process the world around them. Sometimes, when early movement patterns, called primitive reflexes, remain active beyond infancy, they can quietly affect attention, coordination, behavior, and emotional regulation.
Our Advanced Sensory & Primitive Reflex Integration Therapy, delivered by an occupational therapist (OTD), helps children strengthen neurological pathways that support self-regulation, focus, and confidence. Below are answers to the most common questions families ask about this therapy and what to expect.
Primitive Reflex Integration Therapy is a specialized occupational therapy approach designed to help children whose early movement patterns, known as primitive reflexes, have not yet integrated. Through movement, sensory input, and specific exercises, the therapy helps the nervous system mature and function more efficiently, improving coordination, self-regulation, and attention.
Traditional occupational therapy often focuses on building skills such as handwriting, self-care, and sensory regulation. Primitive Reflex Integration Therapy, on the other hand, targets the root neurological patterns that influence development. By helping the brain and body work together more effectively, children may find that daily tasks, such as dressing, focusing, or managing emotions, become more manageable and less stressful.
This service is led by a Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) who specializes in sensory regulation, reflex integration, and neurodevelopmental support. Our therapist combines advanced clinical training with a compassionate, child-centered approach that prioritizes comfort, safety, and family involvement.
When primitive reflexes remain active, a child’s body may react automatically to movement or stress without conscious control. This can look like fidgeting, poor posture, difficulty sitting still, or emotional overreactions. These automatic responses can make it harder for children to concentrate, regulate emotions, or complete tasks that require coordination and focus.
Yes. Children with autism, ADHD, and sensory processing differences often experience retained reflexes that affect regulation, attention, and body awareness. Reflex integration therapy can reduce stress on the nervous system, leading to improvements in focus, flexibility, and emotional control.
Every child is unique, but signs may include:
If you notice several of these patterns, an evaluation can help determine if retained reflexes are playing a role.
Click here for a more comprehensive list of symptoms.
No formal diagnosis is required. Some families come to us with diagnoses like autism, ADHD, or sensory processing disorder, while others simply sense that something is making daily life harder for their child. We focus on identifying and supporting each child’s unique neurological and sensory needs, regardless of diagnosis.
The Comprehensive Evaluation is the first step in the process. During this session, our occupational therapist:
Families leave with a deeper understanding of their child’s strengths and challenges, along with practical next steps.
After the evaluation, families may enroll in a 12-week individualized therapy program. Each program includes:
Progress is closely monitored, and therapy plans are adjusted as your child develops new skills.
While every child progresses differently, families often report:
Some children also experience secondary benefits in academic or social environments, including better self-regulation and body control.
Getting started is simple:
Our team will guide you through each step, making sure you understand the process and feel supported from day one.
Primitive Reflex Integration Therapy gives children the foundation they need to move, regulate, and engage more comfortably with the world around them. Whether your child struggles with coordination, focus, or emotional regulation, our goal is to help them feel more balanced and capable in everyday life.
Contact our team today to schedule your evaluation and discover how this gentle, evidence-based approach can help your child reach their fullest potential.
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