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Developmental Therapist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pediatric Developmental Therapist

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$66K - $90K/yr

We are committed to your success as a therapist with mentoring, team meetings, professional development opportunities and outstanding administrative support. Will consider interested candidates for ...

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Developmental Therapist information

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$32K

$59.9K

$84.5K

How much do developmental therapist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for developmental therapist in the United States is $59,854.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,500.00 and $63,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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 cities are hiring for Developmental Therapist jobs? Cities with the most Developmental Therapist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Developmental Therapist jobs? The most popular types of Developmental Therapist jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Developmental Therapist jobs? The top employers for Developmental Therapist jobs are:
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Infographic showing various Developmental Therapist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,854 per year, or $28.8 per hour.

Developmental Therapist with First Steps - Must have BS in Early Childhood Education

Developmental Services, Inc. - Washington

Washington, IN

$55/hr

Contractor

Posted yesterday


Job description

Our Vision

The elimination of barriers that restrict individuals with disabilities from community inclusion.

We strive to eliminate all barriers that keep our clients from being a part of their community.

Our Mission

To provide services and supports to people with barriers to attain self-direction, inclusion, personal fulfillment, and productivity in all life areas.

At DSI, we provide these services and supports to our clients to help them attain self-direction, inclusion and personal fulfillment and be productive in all areas of life.

Job Description 

POSITION TITLE: Developmental Therapist with First Steps

DIVISION: Therapy

CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt 

STATUS: 3-18 billable hours/week with flexibility of setting your own schedule.

RATE OF PAY: $55/billable hour – no taxes taken out 1099 Contracted LLC position

First Steps is a state program whose mission is:  To partner with Hoosier families whose young children are experiencing developmental delays and connect them with services that help them promote their child’s development.

  • Therapists work with children ages 0-3 and their families to help their child meet developmental milestones in Gross Motor, Fine Motor, Cognitive, Adaptive, Social, and Social Communication areas.  Services occur in the child’s natural environment which may be their home, day care, or a community setting.  Location of services is determined by the family. 
  • Therapists provide services according to the child’s Individualized Family Service Plan.  Therapy sessions typically occur 1 x week for 60 minutes, it may be less depending on the child’s need. 
  • DSI works as the supervisor and assigns referrals and manages billing for the program.  DSI assists therapists with enrollment in the program and annual credentialing. 
Employment Type: CONTRACTOR