Could it be a Developmental Delay?
West Michigan is teeming with medical professionals who are ready to support you and your kid. They are here for you when things are going well and especially when they’re not.
So who can you call when your gut tells you something is off? You’re not sure what it is, exactly, but your child has missed a few key milestones.
Maybe your kid is behind on walking, talking, or something else, and you wonder – is this developmental delay or possibly a disability emerging? The unknown, the questioning, the wondering, and the work to uncover what is going on can be very overwhelming.
When you’re in that boat, you call one of the professionals in this guide.
That’s what I did when my son was diagnosed with autism at age seven.
At first I didn’t know where to start.
But once the shock of the diagnosis wore off, the first thing I did was track down local resources and community support groups for parents of children with disabilities.
Hopefully this guide will also help you find the resources and support you need as you navigate this time.
in this article
Featured Partners
These local therapists and resource centers are dedicated to helping children with developmental delays or disabilities.
This is a sponsored section of GRKIDS.
We provide comprehensive autism evaluations and ABA therapy in-home and in-center.
Our evidence-based ABA treatment leads to top-notch clinical outcomes for our families across the US.
Services: ABA Therapy, ADHD / Autism Testing
Disabilities Served: Autism
Resource Type: Local Business
Ages: Ages 0-2, Preschool, Grades 3-5, Grades 6-8, Grades 9-12, Grades K-2
DLTC is proud to offer speech, occupational, and mental health therapies in a welcoming, neuroaffirming environment.
Our team provides individualized, collaborative care designed to meet each client where they are and support their unique goals.
We believe therapy should support the whole person, celebrate differences, and help clients and families feel understood, supported, and empowered.
Services: Speech Therapy, Play Therapy, Counseling, Occupational Therapy, Oral Myofunctional Therapy, Feeding Therapy, Sensory Therapy
Disabilities Served: ADHD, Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Cognitive Impairment, Down Syndrome, Dyspraxia, Language Development, Speech Impairment, Depression & Mood Disorders, Anxiety, Other Mood Disorders, PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury
Resource Type: Local Business
Ages: Ages 0-2, Preschool, Grades K-2, Grades 3-5, Grades 6-8, Grades 9-12, Adults
My daughter enjoys her time at speech therapy and has made a lot of progress in the six months. We are thankful for their knowledge and help. I also love to support businesses who are genuine and welcome everyone.
Our Occupational Therapists address:
• sensory processing
• attention & emotional regulation
• motor & visual-motor skills
Our Speech-Language Pathologists help kids:
• speak clearly
• use words or AAC
• expand language
• follow directions
• engage with peers
• eat safely
• correct myofunctional disorders
Discover how your family can soar with Paper Plane Therapies!
Services: Occupational Therapy, Sensory Therapy, Speech Therapy, Tutoring
Disabilities Served: ADHD, Anxiety, Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Cognitive Impairment, Depression & Mood Disorders, Down Syndrome, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Hearing Impairment, Language Development, Motor Disorders, Other Learning Disorders, Prenatal Drug and/or Alcohol Exposure, Processing Disorders, Speech Impairment, Visual Impairment
Resource Type: Local Business
Ages: Ages 0-2, Preschool, Grades K-2, Grades 3-5, Grades 6-8, Grades 9-12, Adults
Paper Plane has blessed our entire family. The therapists have helped us navigate an autism diagnosis, implement play-based strategies that equip my son with the tools needed to thrive.
From inpatient rehabilitation to outpatient therapy, each treatment plan is crafted with individual goals in mind.
Our accredited programs, seasoned clinical teams, and compassionate approach ensure expert, family-centered care designed to support the best possible recovery outcomes and the highest standard of support for children and families throughout their rehabilitation journey.
Our goal is the same as yours: maximize your child’s abilities and independence.
Learn more at www.maryfreebed.com/kids.
Services: ABA Therapy, ADHD / Autism Testing, Dance / Movement Therapy, Feeding Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Oral Myofunctional Therapy, Parental Support, Physical Therapy, Plagiocephaly (flat head), Play Therapy, Sensory Therapy, Speech Therapy, Vision Therapy, VitalStim Therapy
Disabilities Served: ADHD, Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Dyspraxia, Language Development, Motor Disorders, Plagiocephaly (flat head), Processing Disorders, Speech Impairment, Traumatic Brain Injury, Visual Impairment
Resource Type: Local Business, Local Nonprofit
Ages: Ages 0-2, Preschool, Grades K-2, Grades 3-5, Grades 6-8, Grades 9-12, Adults
We partner with BCBS, Priority Health, Aetna, Cigna and Cofinity.
Our unique approach combines evidenced-based practices within the context of relationships, regulation and fun.
We identify underlying challenges, help families and clients understand their impact and empower them with strategies to reach their greatest potential.
We work together as a team to understand your child’s sensory system and communication skills.
Services: Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Oral Myofunctional Therapy, Feeding Therapy
Disabilities Served: ADHD, Anxiety, Autism, Down Syndrome, Dyslexia, Language Development, Motor Disorders, Other Learning Disorders, Processing Disorders, Speech Impairment
Resource Type: Local Business
Ages: Ages 0-2, Grades K-2, Preschool, Grades 6-8, Grades 3-5, Grades 9-12, Adults
My kids love going to therapy and have tremendously developed and improved because of their work with their therapists. I wish I knew how to put into words how grateful we are.
Wedgwood Christian Services has a long-rooted understanding of the challenges and complexities of the early teenage years, and is focused on giving children and parents a place where they are truly seen, heard, and understood.
Our team partners with parents and children to address issues including: school-related stress and pressure, bullying and peer conflict, friendship and social challenges, changes in behavior or mood, family tension and transitions, and self-confidence and self-worth.
Services: Counseling, Parental Support, Social Work
Disabilities Served: Depression & Mood Disorders, Other Mood Disorders, PTSD, Anxiety
Resource Type: Local Business, Local Nonprofit
Ages: Preschool, Grades K-2, Grades 3-5, Grades 6-8, Grades 9-12, Adults
Wedgwood is doing well by listening and just giving me a great experience overall. I would recommend Wedgwood to everyone for the services that they offer!
Our team offers exceptional center-based ABA therapy in a fun, engaging environment designed for learning, including:
• Indoor & outdoor play spaces
• Classroom settings to promote social skills and prepare children for school
• Specialized program tailored to your child and family’s need
• Clinicians (BCBAs) with small caseloads, and regular treatment review with a doctoral-level clinician (BCBA-D™), maximizing time treating your child
Services: ABA Therapy
Disabilities Served: Autism
Resource Type: Local Business, Local Nonprofit
Ages: Preschool, Grades K-2, Grades 3-5
The care we receive at Wedgwood is unmatched. We fully trust them to care for our child, and the behavioral treatments WORK WELL and FAST. We could not be more happy with our services at Wedgwood.
We know parenting can feel overwhelming, especially when your child is struggling with big emotions, anxiety, or transitions.
Our therapists create safe, supportive spaces where kids can express themselves and learn tools to thrive, while also equipping parents with guidance and strategies that bring peace at home.
With a team dedicated to child and family well-being, Leadlight Counseling offers compassionate, therapy-informed care that helps kids shine and empowers parents to feel supported, connected, and hopeful.
Services: Counseling, Parental Support
Disabilities Served: ADHD, Anxiety, Autism, Depression & Mood Disorders, Other Mood Disorders, PTSD
Resource Type: Local Business
Ages: Preschool, Grades K-2, Grades 3-5, Grades 6-8, Grades 9-12, Adults
Leadlight Counseling is a true gift—caring, competent therapists in a warm space where healing and support feels authentic. I felt valued, supported, and genuinely seen. Highly recommend!
Each vision therapy session is one-on-one (therapist-to-patient), conducted under doctor supervision.
During treatment, our doctors and therapists apply state-of-the-art technology and procedures, making treatment fun and productive, resulting in helping the child to reach their full potential.
Services: Vision Therapy
Disabilities Served: Cognitive Impairment, Dyslexia, Epilepsy, Processing Disorders, Traumatic Brain Injury, Visual Impairment, ADHD, Autism
Resource Type: Local Business
Ages: Ages 0-2, Preschool, Grades K-2, Grades 3-5, Grades 6-8, Grades 9-12, Adults
Now that Sam has gone through vision therapy, his ADD symptoms are pretty much gone. He can sit still when he reads now and his behavior has completely turned around!
We specialize in early intervention for children under six and offer focused after-school programs for older learners to build communication, social, and daily living skills.
Services are offered in-center, at home, or in-school where permitted.
We also provide pediatric autism testing and diagnostic services in select Michigan locations.
Referrals are welcome and most major insurances are accepted.
We provide financial guidance and family training to support long-term success.
Services: ABA Therapy, ADHD / Autism Testing
Disabilities Served: Autism
Resource Type: Local Business
Ages: Ages 0-2, Preschool, Grades K-2, Grades 6-8, Grades 3-5, Grades 9-12
My son has received services here for nearly two years and they are fantastic! From scheduling to communication, I give them five stars all day. They are a pleasure to work with! David | Michigan
Our team of psychologists, behavior analysts, and counselors are dedicated to families in the midst of behavioral, emotional, and developmental challenges.
Our services include:
• Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
• Diagnostic testing for ADHD, Autism, and Learning/Developmental concerns
• A wide range of counseling services for children and teens
We are here to support your journey, understand the unique nuances of your child’s needs, and craft personalized treatment plans.
Together, we’ll envision a life beyond the challenges.
Services: ABA Therapy, Psychological Assessment, Counseling
Disabilities Served: Autism, Anxiety, Cognitive Impairment, Depression & Mood Disorders, Other Learning Disorders, ADHD, Other Mood Disorders, Down Syndrome
Resource Type: Local Business
Ages: Ages 0-2, Preschool, Grades K-2, Grades 3-5, Grades 6-8, Grades 9-12, Adults
We can help when school or other options fail, and we work to be a valuable part of the child's team.
For children with learning challenges, we address reading, writing, math and executive functions (eg. attention, working memory), etc.
Our experienced intervention specialists build on the child's strengths while remediating challenges.
For children with autism and developmental disorders, our options include behavioral therapy (ABA, ESDM), developmental therapies (DIR/Floortime, The PLAY Project), and social groups.
Services: Tutoring, School, ABA Therapy, Parental Support, Play Therapy, Social Work
Disabilities Served: Other Learning Disorders, Autism, Dyslexia, ADHD, Cognitive Impairment, Processing Disorders
Resource Type: Local Business
Ages: Ages 0-2, Preschool, Grades K-2, Grades 3-5, Grades 6-8, Grades 9-12
Thank you for all your help with our son. We have seen quite an improvement in his spelling and pronunciation of words. And now he's a reader!!! Pam & Henry
We offer occupational therapy and speech therapy grounded in one shared philosophy, helping you understand the "why" behind behaviors and difficulties, while skill building and problem solving together.
Our support is for the whole family — when parents feel supported, everyone does better.
Getting to the root of what's going on requires a commitment to curiosity and a holistic, body-based approach.
We aim to build more success with less stress, in ways that feel personal, not clinical.
Services: Occupational Therapy, Parental Support, Sensory Therapy, Speech Therapy, Oral Myofunctional Therapy, Feeding Therapy
Disabilities Served: ADHD, Other Learning Disorders, Cognitive Impairment, Autism, Depression & Mood Disorders, Dyspraxia, Anxiety, Down Syndrome, Language Development, Motor Disorders, Other Mood Disorders, Prenatal Drug and/or Alcohol Exposure, Processing Disorders, PTSD, Speech Impairment, Dyslexia, Visual Impairment, Traumatic Brain Injury, Epilepsy, Hearing Impairment, Cerebral Palsy
Resource Type: Local Business
Ages: Ages 0-2, Preschool, Grades K-2, Grades 3-5, Grades 6-8, Grades 9-12, Adults
At CAYA, we found care that sees the whole child and the whole family. They helped me better understand and advocate for my child, while giving me the space and support to come exactly as I am, too.
With 25 well-trained horses and ponies, our experience staff meets you exactly where you are.
Whether your goal is building strength and balance, developing riding skills, or simply spending time with a horse, we're here to support anyone seeking the unique horse-human connection!
Services: Therapeutic Riding
Disabilities Served: ADHD, Anxiety, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, PTSD, Speech Impairment, Autism, Cognitive Impairment, Depression & Mood Disorders, Language Development, Traumatic Brain Injury, Processing Disorders, Other Learning Disorders, Other Mood Disorders
Resource Type: Local Nonprofit
Ages: Preschool, Grades K-2, Grades 3-5, Grades 6-8, Grades 9-12, Adults
Our child-centered team supports communication, feeding, sensory-motor development and more, with specialized services including myofunctional therapy, SLP-led literacy intervention, and innovative ultrasound biofeedback for speech sound treatment.
We tailor therapy to each child’s individual strengths, needs, and goals.
Services: Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Oral Myofunctional Therapy, Feeding Therapy
Disabilities Served: Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Cognitive Impairment, Down Syndrome, Dyspraxia, Epilepsy, Hearing Impairment, Language Development, Other Learning Disorders, Processing Disorders, Speech Impairment, Traumatic Brain Injury, Dyslexia, ADHD
Resource Type: Local Business
Ages: Ages 0-2, Preschool, Grades K-2, Grades 3-5, Grades 6-8, Grades 9-12, Adults
Lake Michigan Academy is a private school dedicated to supporting students with learning differences, such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, and ADHD.
Turning Pages Tutoring offers 1:1 reading and math tutoring for all ages using the Orton-Gillingham approach, alongside professional development and training for educators.
Services: School, Tutoring
Disabilities Served: ADHD, Dyslexia, Language Development, Other Learning Disorders, Processing Disorders
Resource Type: Local Business
Ages: Grades K-2, Grades 3-5, Grades 6-8, Grades 9-12, Adults
We offer diagnostic clarity and identify your child’s strengths and vulnerabilities, guiding personalized medical, therapeutic, home, and school-based recommendations.
Detailed follow-ups help families understand results and support their child's development.
Accepts BCBS/BCN, PH.
Services: ADHD / Autism Testing
Disabilities Served: Traumatic Brain Injury, Epilepsy, Cerebral Palsy, ADHD, Other Learning Disorders, Cognitive Impairment, Dyslexia, Prenatal Drug and/or Alcohol Exposure, Processing Disorders, Depression & Mood Disorders, Autism, Anxiety
Resource Type: Local Business
Ages: Ages 0-2, Preschool, Grades K-2, Grades 3-5, Grades 6-8, Grades 9-12
Our team of occupational, speech and physical therapists leverage a holistic treatment of child and family that addresses attention, cognition, social-emotional, language-communication, motor/sensory processing, play, and behavior skills.
You can find us in Jenison, Holland, and Kalamazoo.
Services: ADHD / Autism Testing, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Speech Therapy, VitalStim Therapy, Play Therapy, Plagiocephaly (flat head)
Disabilities Served: ADHD, Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Cognitive Impairment, Down Syndrome, Language Development, Processing Disorders, Speech Impairment
Resource Type: Local Business
Ages: Ages 0-2, Preschool, Grades K-2, Grades 3-5, Grades 6-8, Grades 9-12
Every evaluation is conducted exclusively by a doctoral-level pediatric neuropsychologist, ensuring expert, personalized care throughout the process.
Ranked GRKIDS’ #1 Top Doc for autism and ADHD testing for multiple consecutive years, PMC is part of HRA Psychological Services, offering access to adult assessments, infant mental health, parent support, and therapy across the lifespan.
Services: Counseling, Parental Support, ADHD / Autism Testing, Play Therapy
Disabilities Served: Anxiety, Depression & Mood Disorders, Other Mood Disorders, ADHD, Autism, Other Learning Disorders, Processing Disorders, PTSD
Resource Type: Local Business
Ages: Ages 0-2, Preschool, Grades K-2, Grades 3-5, Grades 6-8, Grades 9-12, Adults
• Anxiety/mood disorders
• School refusal
• Selective mutism
• ADHD
• Disruptive behavior
• Sleep difficulties
Our expert team offers individualized therapy, psychoeducational evaluations, and parent coaching using proven Behavioral/Cognitive Behavioral Therapy models.
Services: ADHD / Autism Testing, Counseling, Parental Support
Disabilities Served: ADHD, Anxiety, Autism, Depression & Mood Disorders
Resource Type: Local Business
Ages: Preschool, Grades K-2, Grades 3-5, Grades 6-8, Grades 9-12
Our clinicians have extensive experience working with many types of needs that children, adolescents, and families have.
We value authenticity and collaboration in relationships, respect and dignity for all, professional expertise and excellence in our work.
Services: Counseling, Parental Support, ADHD / Autism Testing
Disabilities Served: Anxiety, Depression & Mood Disorders, Other Mood Disorders, PTSD, Autism, Dyslexia, Cognitive Impairment, ADHD
Resource Type: Local Business
Ages: Preschool, Grades K-2, Grades 3-5, Grades 6-8, Grades 9-12, Adults
Mood Disorders, Anxiety & Depression
Mental health encompasses a wide range of conditions.
Mental health encompasses a wide range of conditions. The most common are anxiety and depression, but there are also many other mood disorders out there, such as bipolar disorder or seasonal affective disorder.
Mental health issues can affect any child at any age.
They can be hard to pinpoint – after all, growing up is all about learning to handle your emotions and all children experience emotional extremes. You might be wondering, could these sudden outbursts be normal, or a sign of something else going on?
If you’re wondering, “does my kid need counseling?” take notes of what you’re seeing and ask your pediatrician. And once you’re going down this road, learn how using a child therapist works so you’re ready if you get that referral.
ADHD
ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders of childhood.
And contrary to popular belief, you don’t outgrow ADHD. It lasts into adulthood.
Kids with ADHD often have trouble focusing, are easily distracted and struggle with organization. Many of these children are also impulsive.
Even though it’s common, living with ADHD is a struggle. It’s hard for kids (and adults!) to sit still and focus and they often feel misunderstood because they don’t operate in the world like society expects.
If you suspect your child has ADHD, these local pros offer ADHD testing and can connect you with therapists if your child has ADHD.
Often, ADHD is inherited, which means that you might also have it. Don’t overlook the signs that you might have ADHD as an adult. Because there is help for you, too!
Language and Speech Delays
Language and speech delays cover both struggles with communicating and/or understanding language.
Does your child have no issue speaking, but does not seem to understand instructions you give them? Perhaps your child knows what you’re saying, but struggles to form words to respond.
These delays can have physical causes like hearing issues, a cleft palate or a tongue tie. Other times, the delays stem from neurological delays or disabilities.
Kids with these delays are easily frustrated and can seem very irritable. But it’s only because they want to communicate and can’t!
Connecting your kid with a speech therapist is imperative to helping a child with a speech or language delay, and these specialists work wonders.
Cognitive Delays
Cognitive delays describe children who are behind their peers in learning and solving problems.
Does your child take longer to grasp concepts that other kids their age have mastered? Do they not seem to have an awareness appropriate for their age or lack curiosity?
These delays (which can sometimes become lifelong, and therefore disabilities) could be genetic or caused by illness or injury.
Getting help for kids with cognitive delays greatly enhances their chances at success – both at school and in life.
Many professionals can help kids with these delays. You might be referred to a speech therapist, behavior therapist, physical therapist or occupational therapist.
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological developmental disability.
People with ASD often struggle with social cues and interaction and become obsessive with repetitive behaviors or interests. They usually learn and move differently than other children.
It used to be that kids with neurological disorders were often criticized by society – both at home and at school. Parents would be frustrated with their children and their children had no clue why they were misunderstood.
Nowadays we understand that kids with neurological disorders just navigate the world differently. Parents now have resources available to both help them understand their neurodivergent kid and for the child to understand how their brain works.
This comprehensive list of autism services helps kids and families in West Michigan thrive.
Dyslexia
Dyslexia is a disability that prevents children (and adults) from understanding written words and processing sounds. They can even struggle with spoken words.
Because it drastically affects academic performance, dyslexia is considered a learning disability.
Being unable to process written instruction makes it increasingly difficult to keep up in class, even if they have the cognition to learn.
If your child struggles to read, ask if their school can test them for dyslexia. Schools often have reading specialists available or other resources to help these kids.
Depending on the severity of the diagnosis, speech or language therapists could also be helpful.
Motor Delays
Motor delays happen when children are behind their peers in either gross motor or fine motor skills.
Motor delays happen when children are behind their peers in either gross motor or fine motor skills.
They might struggle to jump on two feet, hold and use a crayon, or brush their teeth.
Pediatricians regularly screen patients for these delays, and early intervention can really help.
Children with motor delays benefit from occupational therapists and/or sensory-processing therapy.
More Resources
Here’s some more places to go for support for children with developmental delays or disabilities.
Therapy Services
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Acorn Health Locations in Grand Rapids (East Paris, 36th St, and Kentwood), Rockford, Grandville, Otsego and Kalamazoo
517 E Division St. NE Rockford, MI 49341 |
ABA Therapy, ADHD / Autism Testing |
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Anchored Family 7086 8th Ave, Jenison, MI 49426
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Counseling, Parental Support, ADHD / Autism Testing |
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Apogee Therapy Center 3010 Wilson Ave SW, Grandville, MI 49418
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Speech Therapy, Physical Therapy |
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Autism Alliance of Michigan 26913 Northwestern Hwy #520, Southfield, MI 48033
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Parental Support |
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Building Blocks Therapy Services 2922 Fuller Ave NE, Suite 107, Grand Rapids, MI, 49505
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Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Oral Myofunctional Therapy, Feeding Therapy |
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Calvin University Speech & Hearing Clinic 3201 Burton St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546
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Speech Therapy |
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CAYA Therapies 1000 3 Mile NW, Suite G, Grand Rapids, MI 49544
2922 Fuller Ave NE, Suite 105, Grand Rapids, MI 49505 |
Occupational Therapy, Parental Support, Sensory Therapy, Speech Therapy, Oral Myofunctional Therapy, Feeding Therapy |
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Center for Physical Rehabilitation 5060 Cascade Rd SE, # A, Grand Rapids, MI 49546
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Physical Therapy |
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Centria Autism 318 River Ridge Dr, Walker, MI 49544
1575 44th St SW, Wyoming, MI 49509 |
ABA Therapy, ADHD / Autism Testing |
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Children's Therapy Corner 4467 Byron Center Ave SW, Wyoming, MI 49519
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Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, ABA Therapy, Sensory Therapy, Parental Support |
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Conductive Learning Center of North America 2401 Camelot Court SE, Suite J, Grand Rapids, MI 49546
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Parental Support |
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Counseling Center of West Michigan 360 East Beltline NE, Suite 100, Grand Rapids, MI 49506
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Counseling, Parental Support |
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Craniosacral Center of Grand Rapids 1005 Parchment Dr SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546
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ABA Therapy, Counseling, Parental Support |
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Developmental Enhancement Behavioral Health 3809 Lake Eastbrook Blvd SE, Ste A, Grand Rapids, MI 49546
185 44th St SW Ste B, Grandville, MI 49418 |
ABA Therapy, Psychological Assessment, Counseling |
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Duncan Lake Therapy Collective 2450 44th St SE, Ste 201, Kentwood, MI 49512
9028 N Rodgers Ct SE, Ste E, Caledonia, MI 49316 |
Speech Therapy, Play Therapy, Counseling, Occupational Therapy, Oral Myofunctional Therapy, Feeding Therapy, Sensory Therapy |
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EnCourage Institute 3305 3 Mile Rd NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525
1386 Baldwin St, Jenison, MI 49428 |
Tutoring, School, ABA Therapy, Parental Support, Play Therapy, Social Work |
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Exemplary Speech 2880 Wilson Ave SW, Grandville, MI 49418
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Speech Therapy |
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Family Tree Therapies 2251 East Paris Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546
570 East Division NE Rockford, MI 49341 |
Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Oral Myofunctional Therapy, Feeding Therapy |
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Focus Clinic 4050 Del Mar Dr SW, Suite C, Wyoming, MI 49418
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ADHD / Autism Testing, Counseling, Tutoring |
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Functional Kids Therapy Center LLC 777 Goguac St W, Suite B2, Battle Creek, MI 49015
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Speech Therapy, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Counseling |
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Gateway Pediatric Therapy 346 68th St SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49548
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ABA Therapy, Parental Support |
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Grounded in Growth Mental Health 416 Plymouth Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505
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Counseling, Parental Support |
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Hello Pediatric Therapy 701 68th Street SW, Bryon Center, MI 49315
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Parental Support, Speech Therapy |
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Hestóvin Stables Therapeutic Riding Center 1217 East Paris Ave, SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546
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Therapeutic Riding |
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Hope Network Center for Autism 3361 36th Street SE, Kentwood, MI 49512
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ADHD / Autism Testing, ABA Therapy, Parental Support |
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i'move 5211 Cascade Rd SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546
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Physical Therapy |
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Ivy Rehab for Kids 6741 Fulton St E, Ste 201, Ada, MI 49301
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Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, ABA Therapy, VitalStim Therapy |
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Karin's Horse Connection & Legacy Stables 8001 Patterson Ave SE, Caledonia, MI 49316
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Therapeutic Riding |
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Lake Michigan Academy 2428 Burton St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546
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School, Tutoring |
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Leadlight Counseling - Child, Adolescent, and Family Therapy 5360 Cascade Rd SE, Suite 1, Grand Rapids, MI 49546
12930 James St, Holland, MI 49424 |
Counseling, Parental Support |
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Life Therapeutic Solutions Inc. West Michigan
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Counseling |
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Mary Free Bed - Joan Secchia Children’s Rehab Hospital 235 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
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ABA Therapy, ADHD / Autism Testing, Dance / Movement Therapy, Feeding Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Oral Myofunctional Therapy, Parental Support, Physical Therapy, Plagiocephaly (flat head), Play Therapy, Sensory Therapy, Speech Therapy, Vision Therapy, VitalStim Therapy |
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Mindful Counseling GR 985 Parchment Drive SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546
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Anxiety, Depression & Mood Disorders, Other Mood Disorders, PTSD |
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Mitten State Pediatric Therapy 5258 Plainfield Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525
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Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Speech Therapy |
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Next Adventure 3181 Prairie St. SW, Suite 115, Grandville, MI 49418
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Occupational Therapy |
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Paper Plane Therapies 4670 Fulton St E, STE 201, Ada, MI 49301
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Occupational Therapy, Sensory Therapy, Speech Therapy, Tutoring |
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Pediatric Mindworks Center at HRA 2851 Charlevoix Dr SE, Suite 323, Grand Rapids, MI 49546
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Counseling, Parental Support, ADHD / Autism Testing, Play Therapy |
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Rockford Speech Therapy 6284 Belmont Ave NE, Belmont, MI 49306
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Parental Support, Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Sensory Therapy |
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Springboard Neuropsychological Assessments 3230 Broadmoor Ave SE, Ste. D, Kentwood, MI 49512
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ADHD / Autism Testing |
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TEST New Client 394 Greentree Ln NE
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ADHD / Autism Testing |
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The ADHD Center of West Michigan 2025 East Beltine Ave, SE #301 Grand Rapids, MI 49546
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ADHD / Autism Testing, Counseling, Parental Support, Speech Therapy |
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The Barn For Equine Learning 3203 Timpson Ave SE, Lowell, MI 49331
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Therapeutic Riding |
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The Center for Childhood Development 7086 8th Ave, Jenison, MI 49428
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ADHD / Autism Testing, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Speech Therapy, VitalStim Therapy, Play Therapy, Plagiocephaly (flat head) |
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Thriving Minds Behavioral Health 4690 Fulton St E, Suite 102, Ada, MI 49301
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ADHD / Autism Testing, Counseling, Parental Support |
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Us and Kids Michigan
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Parental Support |
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We Rock the Spectrum 4550 Plainfield Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525
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Parental Support |
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Wedgwood Christian Services 3300 36th St. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49512
1260 Ekhart St NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 |
Counseling, Parental Support, Social Work |
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Wedgwood's Autism Center for Child Development 1260 Ekhart St NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
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ABA Therapy |
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Wow Vision Therapy 3152 Peregrine Dr NE, C205, Grand Rapids, MI 49525
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Vision Therapy |
FAQs
What is a Developmental Delay?
A developmental delay occurs when a child does not reach the same developmental milestones as their peers.
Delays can be when a child’s development slows, stops, or even reverses.
These milestones are based on what a majority of children reach by a certain age and include cognitive, speech, motor (gross and fine), social and emotional skills.
Examples are a child babbling by six months old, being able to kick a ball by age two, and counting to ten by age five.
How are Developmental Delays Diagnosed?
Doctors and nurses screen children for developmental delays and will refer you to a specialist if a delay is suspected.
Screening helps them determine if a child is learning basic skills comparable to their peers. Sometimes children are just slightly slower to learn a skill and will accomplish the goal on their own.
At other times, children benefit from seeing a physical, mental or occupational therapist, or other specialist.
Expect doctors to ask you questions about your family’s medical history, do a physical exam on your child, and interact/play with them to assess their skills.
If a delay is suspected, you and your child will be referred to a specialist for assessment.
Assessment specialists include neuropsychologists or developmental behavior doctors.
Can Developmental Delays be Corrected?
Sometimes a child outgrows a developmental delay. Other times, extra help is needed.
The key is early intervention, which is shown to significantly reduce the impact these delays have.
And even if a child could overcome their delay on their own, many parents enjoy using therapists to help their child along. Common therapy and support options for developmental delays include:
• Physical Therapy
• Occupational Therapy
• Speech and Language Therapy
• Behavioral Therapy
• Special Education
Are Developmental Delays and Developmental Disabilities the Same Thing?
No, they are not the same. A developmental delay is temporary, and a child usually outgrows or overcomes it through therapy.
Developmental disabilities are lifelong. These children also benefit from therapy, which will give them tools to be their best self.
What is a Developmental Disability?
Developmental disabilities impact a child’s day-to-day functioning in areas of physical, cognitive, speech or behavior skills.
These disabilities are present in infancy or childhood and are with a person for life.
Conditions that start in the teen years or adulthood are not considered developmental disabilities.
Is Autism a Developmental Disability?
Yes, autism falls under the umbrella of developmental disability.
What do I do if I Think My Child has a Developmental Disability?
Talk with your child’s doctor if you think there could be a problem.
You may be referred to a developmental-behavioral pediatrician or other pediatric specialists for further evaluation.
In the State of Michigan, Early On provides free evaluations and interventions for qualifying families for children ages birth to 3 years.
Parents of school-aged children can work with their local school district’s special education office to determine if a child has a disability. Children with developmental delays or disabilities could qualify for a 504 plan or IEP to help them with their education.
Hello Pediatric Therapy in Byron Center offers physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech language pathology. Their clinicians are top notch and a joy to work with.