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Developmental Therapy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sarah, INC

Developmental Therapist

Wallingford, CT · On-site

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

Lumibility

Developmental Therapist

Wallingford, CT

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 ...

Lumibility

Developmental Therapist

New Britain, CT

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 ...

Sarah, INC

Developmental Therapist

Norwich, CT · On-site

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

Lumibility

Developmental Therapist

Wallingford, CT

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 ...

Lumibility

Developmental Therapist

Norwich, 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 ...

Sarah, INC

Developmental Therapist

New Britain, CT · On-site

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

Lumibility

Developmental Therapist

Norwich, CT

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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$32K

$59.9K

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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.
More about Developmental Therapy jobs
What cities are hiring for Developmental Therapy jobs? Cities with the most Developmental Therapy job openings:
What states have the most Developmental Therapy jobs? States with the most job openings for Developmental Therapy jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Developmental Therapy jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Developmental Therapy jobs are:
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 with First Steps - Must have BS in Early Childhood Education

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

Developmental Services, Inc.

Washington, IN • On-site

$55/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 14 days ago

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.

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