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Developmental Therapy Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Developmental Therapy information

See Michigan salary details

$27.9K

$52.2K

$73.7K

How much do developmental therapy jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for developmental therapy in Michigan is $52,169.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,600.00 and $55,300.00 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 thrive as a Developmental Therapist, you need a background in psychology, education, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree and state licensure or certification. Familiarity with assessment tools, individualized education plans (IEPs), and progress tracking software is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and creative problem-solving help build trust and engagement with children and families. These skills ensure effective support for developmental milestones and meaningful progress in clients’ growth and independence.

What are some common challenges faced by Developmental Therapists when working with children and families, and how can these be managed?

Developmental Therapists often encounter challenges such as varying levels of family engagement, cultural differences, and diverse developmental needs among children. Building strong, trust-based relationships with families and using individualized intervention strategies are key to overcoming these challenges. Regular communication, flexibility, and ongoing professional development also help therapists adapt to unique situations and ensure effective support for each child’s progress.

What is developmental therapy?

Developmental therapy is a type of intervention that focuses on helping children with developmental delays or disabilities improve their cognitive, social, emotional, and physical skills. Developmental therapists work with children and their families to create individualized plans that support the child's unique needs and foster growth in everyday activities. This therapy often takes place in homes, schools, or community settings, and can be an important part of early intervention services for young children.

What is the difference between Developmental Therapy vs Occupational Therapist?

AspectDevelopmental TherapyOccupational Therapist
CredentialsTypically requires a master's degree in developmental therapy or related field, along with certificationRequires a master's degree in occupational therapy and state licensure
Work EnvironmentWorks with children in clinics, schools, or home settings focusing on developmental milestonesWorks with individuals of all ages in clinics, hospitals, or community settings to improve daily living skills
Industry UsagePrimarily used in early intervention and developmental support servicesWidely used across healthcare, schools, and rehabilitation centers

Developmental Therapy and Occupational Therapy share overlapping goals in supporting children's development, but they differ in focus and credentials. Developmental Therapy emphasizes early developmental milestones and often involves specialized training, while Occupational Therapy covers a broader range of daily living skills across all age groups.

What are popular job titles related to Developmental Therapy jobs in Michigan? For Developmental Therapy jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Developmental Therapy jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Developmental Therapy jobs in Michigan are:
Developmental Therapy jobs near you
Infographic showing various Developmental Therapy job openings in Michigan as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,169 per year, or $25.1 per hour.
Therapist Developmental Disabilities

Therapist Developmental Disabilities

The Guidance Center

Southgate, MI

Other

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Description

As a recognized leader in our field, The Guidance Center provides a broad range of services that have helped children, adults and families unlock potential and build better lives since 1958. With 25 programs we offer treatment, prevention, growth and education services to more than 14,200 people annually. The Guidance Center is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a welcoming place for everyone.


This position offers a $3,000 sign on bonus!


The Therapist is responsible for evaluations of people receiving services in intellectual or developmental disabilities to determine what interventions are medically necessary and will provide direct therapeutic interventions to people receiving services. The Therapist is also responsible for the development of treatment plans, biopsychosocial and lethality assessments; thorough assessments to determine medically necessary interventions, individual counseling, parent training, behavior modifications plans, and crisis intervention. A minimum of 4 hours per week after 5:00 p.m. will be required. This Therapist position is in our Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities program.


Specific Responsibilities include

  • Administer evaluations of people receiving services to determine what services are medically necessary and provide written reports
  • Provide consultation to staff/guardians/families regarding people receiving therapeutic intervention at the agency, when appropriate.
  • Provide direct counseling services to individuals and families
  • Conduct staff in-services specific to people served to assigned direct care staff
  • When appropriate present information to the Behavior Treatment Committee for review and approval
  • Participate in the development and implementation of treatment plans determined by the needs and desires of the person receiving services
  • Obtain, analyze and evaluate significant data so as to develop service plans and construct programs utilizing a combination of treatment modalities and skills
  • Provide therapeutic support services to children and families.
  • Develop and maintain written records necessary for professional practice as defined in the policy and procedural manual
  • Must complete 24 hours of program and or position specific training on an annual basis
  • Perform other duties as assigned. 

Requirements

  • Must possess a Master's degree in Social Work, Professional Counseling or Psychology from an accredited college or university.
  • Must have and retain a valid LLMSW, LMSW, LLPC or LPC or TLLP or LLP with the State of Michigan and have at least (7) months experience working with persons with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities, including autism. LLMSW or LMSW preferred.
  • Candidate must meet the criteria for Qualified Intellectual Disabilities Profession (QIDP) and Children's Mental Health Professional (CMHP) within four (4) months of hire which states that an appropriate candidate has one year experience in the examination, evaluation and treatment of minors and their families. Group experience and home-based service experience are preferred.
  • Additional requirements include: a nonjudgmental approach that reflects cultural competency and sensitivity to the unique needs and diverse experiences of individual families, the ability to engage and maintain clinical relationships with families, the ability to develop collaborative relationships with other providers, effective interpersonal communication skills, the ability to assess and intervene within complex family and community systems, and a willingness to be flexible, patient and creative.

The Guidance Center believes that our team members are our most valuable resources, and we invest in them accordingly.

The Guidance Center is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a welcoming place for everyone.

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