About Intensive Therapy
Intensive therapy is a highly focused and structured approach to pediatric physical therapy designed to help children with mobility and movement disorders make significant progress in a short period. Unlike traditional therapy models that offer weekly sessions, intensive therapy provides 3 hours of therapy per day, 4-5 days per week, over 2-3 weeks, allowing for greater repetition and faster skill development. At Salt Marsh Pediatric Therapy, we use body weight support systems, treadmill training, and other specialized techniques to help children build strength, coordination, and independence in a safe and controlled environment. Our founder, Julie Joyner Talbot, received intensive therapy training at a clinic during her time at Brenau University, equipping her with the skills to bring this much-needed service to Savannah and the surrounding Lowcountry. Currently, there are no other clinics in the three surrounding counties offering a program like this, leaving many families without access to the level of care their children need. To help make therapy accessible, our services are covered by insurance (primarily Medicaid), federal funding programs, and private pay options. By bringing intensive therapy to this region, we are giving children the opportunity to reach their fullest potential—right here at home.
Intensive Therapy Process
Each intensive therapy program at Salt Marsh Pediatric Therapy is customized to meet the unique needs and goals of every child. Our structured approach allows for focused, high-repetition training to maximize progress in a short time. Here’s what to expect.
Day 1
Assessment & Goal Setting We begin by sitting down together to discuss your child’s goals, past therapy experiences, and current abilities. A standardized assessment is performed to establish a baseline for tracking progress throughout the intensive.
Days 2-14
Focused Therapy & Skill Building The real work begins! Over the next two to three weeks, we will focus on gross motor skills, including but not limited to: Sitting, Crawling, Cruising, Walking, Running, Jumping. We incorporate body weight support systems, treadmill training, and other evidence-based techniques to build strength, improve functional mobility, and work toward the individualized goals set on Day 1.
Day 15
Progress Review & Home Program: On the final day, we will reassess using the same standardized test from Day 1 to measure progress. Families will
receive a personalized home exercise program and a therapy binder with resources to continue progress beyond the intensive. Most importantly, we’ll celebrate the hard work and incredible achievements made along the way!