The psychomotor therapist works on the link between the body, emotions and thought. They are sometimes consulted for children with ADHD, particularly when they also have motor difficulties. Here is what they can offer, and its limits. When well targeted, it can help the child with specific difficulties, alongside the rest of the support.
The psychomotor therapist is an allied health professional. They assess and support difficulties with coordination, balance, spatial awareness and regulation of the body and emotions. They work through physical activities, games and exercises adapted to the child’s age. Their approach is concrete and playful.
You will find more details in the article Who to consult for ADHD.
It can be useful when ADHD is accompanied by motor difficulties, significant clumsiness, handwriting difficulties or developmental coordination disorder. These associated difficulties are common in children with ADHD. They deserve to be assessed in their own right.
Our article ADHD or dyspraxia complements this advice.
The assessment looks at gross and fine motor skills, coordination, balance, spatial and temporal awareness, and handwriting. The assessment often takes one or several sessions. It results in a report with specific goals.
It helps identify any associated disorders.
To find out more, see ADHD and dys disorders.
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Sessions can work on coordination, body awareness, relaxation, regulation of restlessness and management of emotions, through physical activities. The goals are set with the family and reviewed regularly. Progress is often visible in everyday life.
The article ADHD and restlessness in class covers this question in detail.
Psychomotor therapy does not treat ADHD itself. It can help with certain associated difficulties, alongside the recommended interventions. It is important not to expect everything from this approach alone. It forms part of a broader support plan.
This point is explained step by step in Treatment of ADHD in children.
In private practice, psychomotor therapy sessions are generally not reimbursed by the Assurance maladie (the French national health insurance). They may be covered in certain facilities or through coordination platforms, subject to conditions. Check with your mutuelle (supplementary health insurer), which may offer a package. Ask about the fee before starting.
To go further, read our article ADHD: reimbursement of sessions.
Ask the doctor whether psychomotor therapy is useful for your child, and which goals to aim for. Clear goals make it possible to measure the value of the sessions.
We detail this point in After an ADHD diagnosis: the steps.
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No, it can help with certain associated difficulties. It helps with motor difficulties.
When ADHD is accompanied by motor difficulties or clumsiness. It does not treat ADHD itself.
In private practice, generally not. It is rarely reimbursed in private practice.
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