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Developmental Therapy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

M Street

Developmental Therapist

Chicago, IL · On-site

The field of Developmental Therapy is highly rewarding, but not every role will provide the flexibility and opportunity for growth that youre looking for. If you're seeking a traditional 9-to-5 role ...

M Street

Developmental Therapist

Chicago, IL · On-site

The field of Developmental Therapy is highly rewarding, but not every role will provide the flexibility and opportunity for growth that you're looking for. If you're seeking a traditional 9-to-5 role ...

Connecticut

Developmental Therapist

Stamford, CT · On-site

Above average pay for part time developmental therapist including paid sick time * Semi-monthly payroll cycle * Work/life balance including flexible schedule and support * Caseload clustered in ...

Lumibility

Developmental Therapist

New Britain, CT · On-site

Description Kidsteps early intervention program is seeking an outstanding Developmental Therapist to ensure the development and implementation of activities that are family-centered and promote ...

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Developmental Therapy information

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$32K

$59.9K

$84.5K

How much do developmental therapy jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for developmental therapy 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 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 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 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 field of therapy makes the most money?

In the field of therapy, psychiatrists typically earn the highest salaries due to their medical training and ability to prescribe medication. Psychologists and licensed clinical social workers generally have lower earning potential, but salaries can vary based on specialization, experience, and location. Developmental therapists usually earn less than psychiatrists but may have opportunities for higher pay with advanced certifications or private practice.

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 can a developmental therapist do?

A developmental therapist assesses and supports children with developmental delays or disabilities by creating individualized treatment plans. They work on improving skills such as communication, motor abilities, and social interaction through therapy sessions, often using play-based techniques and collaborating with families and other professionals.

What jobs can you get with a degree in developmental psychology?

A degree in developmental psychology can lead to roles such as developmental therapist, early childhood special education teacher, research assistant, or behavioral specialist. These positions often require strong communication skills, knowledge of child development, and sometimes certification or licensure depending on the role and setting.

How do you become a developmental therapist?

To become a developmental therapist, one typically needs a bachelor's degree in a related field such as psychology, special education, or social work, 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 candidates must complete supervised clinical experience to qualify for certification and licensure in their state or region.
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Developmental Therapy jobs near you
Infographic showing various Developmental Therapy job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,854 per year, or $28.8 per hour.
Developmental Therapist/Early Interventionist

Developmental Therapist/Early Interventionist

Developmental Services of Dickson County

Ashland City, TN

$83K - $99K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Description

Benefits:

  • Medical, dental and vision insurance
  • Retirement
  • Life Insurance
  • Long Term Disability
  • Paid training
  • Paid time off
  • Opportunities to grow with us
  • Regular work hours are from Monday to Friday, 8:00-4:30 in Cheatham County
  • No weekends


The responsibilities of the Developmental Therapist will include but is not limited to:

The therapist is responsible for coordinating comprehensive developmental therapy for children who are experiencing developmental delays or have a specific diagnosed disability according to the Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities' guidelines. The early intervention services, which are home and community based are:

  • Developmental screenings and comprehensive developmental evaluations
  • Hearing and vision screenings
  • Intervention planning
  • Child and family intervention in the home, local childcares, and other local early childhood programs
  • Coordinating family support services
  • Assisting with transition services to the next agency when children are three years of age

Requirements

This position requires baccalaureate and/or masters and/or doctorate degree in early childhood special education, early childhood education, child and family studies (child development), early intervention, deaf education or visual disabilities, special education K-12, elementary education, communication disorders, speech language pathology, and/or related field. Related field means a degree in social work, nursing, psychology, education administration, or sociology. Experience in working with young children is required. This person should have the ability to communicate orally and in written form, the ability to work independently, and the ability to relate to and work with other staff, children, family members of children served, and other community agencies and professionals. Personal vehicles will be used on a daily basis to travel between appointments and applicant must have an approved Motor Vehicle Report prior to hire. 

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