FAQs
How do I know if my child needs physical therapy?
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If you’ve noticed delays in developmental milestones (such as sitting, crawling, standing, walking, or running), differences in coordinative control, balance concerns that cause an increased rate of falling, or deviated movement patterns such as frequent toe-walking or in-toeing — it may be an appropriate time to be evaluated by a physical therapist who can further determine if services are needed and provide guidance for next steps.
If you have a gut feeling that your child’s daily activities and mobility are being affected by physical limitations, follow your intuition and seek a PT Evaluation — Remember, a physical therapy evaluation is simply a professional screening to determine if services are necessary or not. Whatever the outcome is, we can navigate it together in a way that best works for you and your family!
Do I need a physician’s referral to get started?
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In Alabama, children can be evaluated and treated by a physical therapist (DPT) without a physician‘s referral in many cases. However, Willow Bay Pediatric Physical Therapy DOES require a physician’s referral prior to PT Evaluation in order to maintain multi-disciplinary care updates with your child’s medical provider, avoid unintentional conflict or overlap with other specialty services, as well as to meet most insurance plan requirements for service coverage.
We will assist you and help guide you through the referral process as needed. We are here to help!
What ages do you work with?
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We care for patients from infancy through adolescence and young adulthood — birth to 21-years-old, with services tailored to each stage of growth and development.
Do you accept insurance?
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At this time we accept BCBS of Alabama in addition to private pay, and hope to be accepting Alabama Medicaid in the near future as well.
If you are insured by a provider we do not accept, we can provide documentation (superbills) that you may submit to your insurance for possible reimbursement.
What are the benefits of in-home therapy?
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Familiar, comfortable environment that is a safe space for your child
No commuting, traffic, or waiting rooms
One-on-one, fully tailored care
Smooth training carryover into daily routines, activities, and mobility
Do I need any special equipment at home to receive these services?
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No special equipment is required. Your therapist will bring what’s needed and use everyday items and toys whenever possible.
What does an in-home therapy session look like?
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Sessions take place in your home or a familiar environment of your choosing, allowing your child to feel comfortable and engaged.
Our treatment approach uses your child’s natural surroundings to support meaningful, real-life progress.
That’s completely okay, and what we’re here for! You don’t have to have all the answers before reaching out.
We’re happy to talk through your concerns, answer questions, and help you decide what feels right for you and your child!