Occupational Therapy Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs) in Northern California

An in-depth, unbiased look with creative, individualized recommendations for success that meet the needs of the child, family, and school.

As a parent, you have the right to request an independent educational evaluation, and you can select the practitioner you want to work with. I hope you’ll consider working with me!

Based in Davis, CA and available for IEEs throughout Northern California. Please note, an hourly travel rate will apply to cases more than 30+ miles from Davis, California.

What is an Occupational Therapy Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE)?

An Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) is “an evaluation conducted by a qualified examiner who is not employed by the public agency responsible for the education of the child in question” under IDEA regulations. It provides an outside, objective perspective on your child’s occupational therapy needs in their educational setting.

There are a number of reasons why families or school districts may seek out an occupational therapy IEE, but most commonly this occurs when the district and the family are not able to come to an agreement regarding the school district’s recommendation for occupational therapy services.

Why Choose Me for Your Child’s Occupational Therapy IEE?

I get it. Navigating the IEP process can be complex and stressful, especially when you do not feel that the school’s evaluation findings don’t align with how you see your child. I am passionate about finding creative solutions that meet your child’s needs. As a pediatric occupational therapist with 20+ years of experience, I have worked in and adjacent to school districts throughout my entire career. I’m able to understand where both sides are coming from and enjoy working with everybody to find creative, highly individualized solutions. I understand the IEP process, what the law says about occupational therapy in the schools and how that is different from what occupational therapists can do in the community or other settings. I also understand the family’s perspective and the desire to make sure their child is receiving the necessary support to succeed in school. 

Occupational Therapy IEE includes: 

• In-depth review of health history and educational records
• Comprehensive observation of your child across at least two school settings
• Stakeholder interviews and questionnaires completed by family and school staff
• Standardized and non-standardized assessments focused on educational impact
• Evidence-based recommendations for school accommodations and services
• Detailed documentation for IEP meetings
• Clear, understandable report that explains findings in accessible language

Frequently Asked Questions About OT IEEs

• Who pays for the IEE? If you disagree with the school district’s occupational therapy evaluation findings or recommendations, you have the right to request an IEE at the public expense. The district must either agree to fund the independent evaluation or file for a due process hearing to prove that their evaluation was appropriate.
• How long does an OT IEE take? Most evaluations are completed within 4-6 weeks, including observation time, assessment sessions, and report preparation.
• What happens after the IEE is completed? The report will be presented to the IEP team, who must consider the findings in determining your child’s educational program and services.
• Can I request an IEE if my child doesn’t currently receive OT services? Yes, if you disagree with the school’s evaluation that determined your child doesn’t need occupational therapy services. If your child has not been evaluated by occupational therapy, then you would need to start by requesting that the school evaluate your child to determine if they require occupational therapy.

Ready to Get Started?

If you’re considering an occupational therapy independent educational evaluation for your child, I’m here to help. Contact me today to discuss your situation and learn how an OT IEE can support your child’s educational success.

Phone: (530) 206-3535
Email: josh@stagebrighttherapy.com
Serving: Sacramento, Davis, Roseville, Rocklin, Folsom, Auburn, Vacaville, Fairfield, Oakland, Berkeley, Albany, Marin, Napa

Please Note: Travel rate will apply to areas 30+ miles from Davis, CA

Please contact me with any questions or to learn about my rates for Occupational Therapy Independent Educational Evaluations in Davis, CA and throughout the Sacramento region.