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Developmental Therapist Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

Physical Therapist

Springfield, IL · On-site

$1.5K - $1.9K/wk

The Physical Therapist is responsible for performing initial patient evaluations, plans/implements ... developmental assessment, and analysis of posture, gait, and functional activities. Interpret ...

Physical Therapist

Springfield, IL · On-site

$1.6K - $2.1K/wk

The Physical Therapist is responsible for performing initial patient evaluations, plans/implements ... motor developmental assessment, and analysis of posture, gait, and functional activities.

Physical Therapist

Springfield, IL · On-site

$1.6K - $2.1K/wk

The Physical Therapist is responsible for performing initial patient evaluations, plans/implements ... developmental assessment, and analysis of posture, gait, and functional activities. Interpret ...

Showing results 41-60

Developmental Therapist information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$31.7K

$59.3K

$83.7K

How much do developmental therapist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for developmental therapist in Springfield, IL is $59,322.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,000.00 and $62,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a developmental therapist?

A developmental therapist is a professional who works with children, typically from birth to age five, to support their cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. They assess developmental delays and create individualized intervention plans to help children achieve important milestones. Developmental therapists often work as part of early intervention teams and collaborate with families, caregivers, and other professionals to promote a child's overall growth and learning. Their goal is to help children develop the skills they need to succeed in everyday life.

What does a developmental therapist do?

Developmental therapists are early childhood education specialists who assist children who are experiencing developmental delays. When developmental therapists meet with their clients, they evaluate the child’s current level of motor and language skills and determine how far they need to go to reach age-appropriate levels. They develop and implement a treatment plan to improve the child’s development and monitor progress to determine the effectiveness of the treatment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a developmental therapist, and why are they important?

To excel as a Developmental Therapist, you typically need a degree in early childhood education, psychology, or a related field, along with knowledge of child development and relevant licensure or certification where required. Familiarity with assessment tools, intervention planning software, and documentation systems is important for tracking progress and creating tailored therapy plans. Strong communication, patience, and cultural sensitivity are vital soft skills for engaging children and collaborating with families and multidisciplinary teams. These competencies ensure effective, individualized support that fosters developmental progress and positive outcomes for children with diverse needs.

How does a developmental therapist typically collaborate with other professionals on a multidisciplinary team?

Developmental Therapists often work closely with speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and case managers to create holistic intervention plans for children. Regular team meetings and ongoing communication ensure that all aspects of a child’s developmental needs are addressed and that progress is monitored collaboratively. This multidisciplinary approach helps ensure consistency in strategies used across different settings and maximizes positive outcomes for the child.

What is the difference between Developmental Therapist vs Speech-Language Pathologist?

AspectDevelopmental TherapistSpeech-Language Pathologist
CredentialsBachelor’s or Master’s in Developmental Therapy, certification often requiredMaster’s in Speech-Language Pathology, state licensure, and ASHA certification
Work EnvironmentClinics, schools, early intervention programs, homesHospitals, clinics, schools, private practice
Industry UsageEarly childhood development, special education, therapy servicesCommunication disorders, speech and language therapy

While both roles focus on supporting children’s development, Developmental Therapists primarily address overall developmental delays and behavioral issues, whereas Speech-Language Pathologists specialize in diagnosing and treating speech and language disorders. Both professions often collaborate in multidisciplinary teams to support children's growth and communication skills.

How do I become a developmental therapist?

To become a developmental therapist, you typically need a bachelor's degree in a related field such as psychology, social work, or early childhood education, followed by a master's degree in developmental therapy or a related discipline. Certification through organizations like the Certification Board for Developmental Therapists (CBDT) is often required, and relevant experience working with children with developmental delays is beneficial.

How much do developmental therapists make?

Developmental therapists in Illinois typically earn an average annual salary of around $55,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, certifications, and work setting. Salaries can vary based on location, employer, and whether the therapist works full-time or part-time, with some positions offering additional benefits such as supervision and ongoing training.

What are the most commonly searched types of Developmental Therapist jobs in Springfield, IL?

The most popular types of Developmental Therapist jobs in Springfield, IL are:

What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Developmental Therapist jobs?

Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Developmental Therapist job openings:

Infographic showing various Developmental Therapist job openings in Springfield, IL as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, and 43% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,322 per year, or $28.5 per hour.

Physical Therapist

Springfield, IL • On-site

Springfield Clinic
Health Care and Social Assistance • 1 - 5K employees

$1.5K - $1.9K/wk

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Springfield Clinic rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 61 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

The Physical Therapist is responsible for performing initial patient evaluations, plans/implements treatment programs, monitors patient's progress towards treatment goals, directly communicates with referring physicians, and documents and completes daily charge tickets.
Job Relationships
Reports to the Director of Physical Therapy
Principal Responsibilities
Perform evaluation procedures including: range of motion, circumferential measurements of body parts, neurological and manual muscle testing, motor developmental assessment, and analysis of posture, gait, and functional activities.
Interpret evaluation results to determine the degree of impairment, aid in differential diagnoses, and assist in establishing and revising the specifics of treatment.
Plan treatment programs based upon the patient's complaint , physician referral, review of medical records, and evaluation results.
Set appropriate goals for treatment to relieve pain, restore function, and prevent disability.
Rule out contra-indications to treatment and recommend necessary changes.
Perform electrotherapy, hydrotherapy, cryotherapy, traction and massage techniques following established procedures and within limits set by patient condition and tolerance.
Administer therapeutic exercises to improve posture, strength, range of motion, coordination, and endurance.
Provide fitting and application of recommended orthotic devices.
Instruct patients in the use of assistive devices and physical therapy procedures to be continued at home.
Monitor the effects of treatment and modify techniques to achieve maximum benefit.
Document initial evaluation and progress report for patient's medical record.
Verbally report progress or changes in the patient's condition to the referring physician as appropriate.
Validate treatment given for accurate completion of the charge ticket.
Provide input or timely scheduling for patients.
Provide direction and supervision of Physical Therapy Assistants and other supportive personnel.
Maintain professional mannerism.
Maintain clean, neat, orderly work environment.
Attempt to provide for patient comfort and modesty.
Communicate tactfully in person or by telephone.
Economically utilize supplies.
Help to maintain equipment and notify the Director of problems.
Demonstrate knowledge of emergency procedures codes.
File incident reports for any event in which the individual or facility might be subject to liability.
Notify the Director of any situation, which warrants consideration beyond the Staff Physical Therapist's duties and responsibilities.
Perform other job duties as assigned.
Comply with the Springfield Clinic incident reporting policy and procedures.
Adhere to all OSHA and Springfield Clinic training & accomplishments as required per policy.
Provide excellent customer service and adhere to SC Way customer service philosophy.
Education/Experience
Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy.
Licenses/Certificates
Licensed by the State of Illinois.
Preferred to be a member of the American Physical Therapy Association but is not required.
CPR certification per American Heart Association guidelines required within 30 days of hire.
Working Environment
Extensive walking, standing, kneeling and heavy lifting.
PHI/Privacy Level
HIPAA1

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