Occupational Therapist (part time)

About Bridges Development Center

Bridges Development Center is a neurodiversity-affirming therapeutic preschool designed to support young children with diverse neurological profiles, including autism, ADHD, sensory processing differences, and other developmental differences. With a low 3:1 student-to-staff ratio, we provide individualized support within sensory-responsive environments using strengths-based, developmentally appropriate practices.

Position Summary

The Occupational Therapist (OT) provides collaborative co-teaching and plays a key role in fostering a developmentally appropriate, sensory-friendly, and play-based learning environment. They will be responsible for incorporating and supporting individual growth within a preschool setting in the areas of social emotional and motor skills while also supporting connection, regulation, and joy. As part of the founding team, this role will help shape systems, culture, and practices as Bridges grows.

Key ResponsibilitiesTherapeutic Support & Intervention

• Collaboratively contribute to and support the implementation of a child-led, sensory-responsive, play-based curriculum that integrates individualized supports to meet diverse learning needs
• Contributes therapeutic insights and recommendations to Individual Learning Plans (ILPs) for each child in collaboration with speech therapists and early childhood director, and families.
• Embed DIR/Floortime principles into the school day and educational activities
• Support children in developing regulation, motor planning, executive functioning, and independence in daily routines.
• Integrate sensory supports and movement-based strategies into the classroom environment to optimize engagement and learning.
• Collaborate with teachers to implement supports to allow for student access to learning, environment, and materials.
• Utilize neurodiversity-affirming, trauma-informed approaches that prioritize co-regulation and autonomy.

Collaboration & Teamwork

• Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings to discuss child progress and intervention strategies.
• Partner with families to support carryover of regulation and sensory strategies across home and school environments

Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain accurate documentation and records, including updating Individual Learning Plans (ILPs), and communicate regularly with families regarding student progress and support needs.
• Ensure compliance with all licensing and ethical guidelines for occupational therapy practice.

QualificationsRequired

• Masters or Doctorate degree in Occupational Therapy.
• Licensed or eligible for licensure as an OT in Michigan
• Experience with neurodivergent children, sensory processing differences, and play-based interventions.
• Strong understanding of neurodiversity-affirming practices, sensory processing differences, and child-led learning, with the ability to clearly communicate these approaches in alignment with Bridges’ mission and in partnership with families.
• Strong leadership, communication, and collaboration skills.
• Commitment to inclusive, strengths-based, and trauma-informed education that avoids deficit-based or compliance-driven practices.
• A commitment to clinical growth, paid professional development learning opportunities will be available.
• Knowledge of DIR/Floortime, sensory integration, executive functioning strategies, and strengths-based therapy.

Preferred

• Experience working in early childhood or educational settings.
• Training in AAC, Gestalt Language Processing, trauma-informed care, CPS Model
• Familiarity with alternative communication supports (AAC, sign language, visual schedules, etc.).
• Formal certification in DIR/Floortime or a similar model

Job Type: Part-time

Work Location: In person