Question 1

Does Welldom accept insurance?

Accepted Answer

Welldom is a private-pay, out-of-network practice. We do not bill or contract directly with insurance companies. Instead, our focus is on providing timely, individualized, and family-centered care without the limitations often associated with insurance plans. Choosing a private-pay model allows us to: Schedule evaluations and therapy without lengthy insurance authorization delays. Recommend the frequency and duration of therapy based on your child's individual needs rather than insurance restrictions. Spend more time providing high-quality care and collaborating with families, and less time on administrative requirements. After each visit, you'll receive a superbill that you can submit to your insurance company for possible out-of-network reimbursement. Reimbursement varies depending on your insurance plan. In some cases, your insurance company may approve a Gap Exception (also called a Network Gap Exception). This may allow your child's therapy to be reimbursed at in-network rates if there are no available in-network providers with the appropriate expertise to meet your child's needs. Approval is determined by your insurance company and is not guaranteed. We encourage you to contact your insurance provider to learn about your out-of-network benefits and whether a Gap Exception may be available for your family.

Question 2

What is pre-authorization?

Accepted Answer

Some insurance plans require pre-authorization (also called prior authorization) before they will reimburse for out-of-network therapy services. This is a process your insurance company uses to determine whether a service may be eligible for coverage. If your insurance company requests information from us, we're happy to provide the documentation needed to support your request. We also encourage you to contact your insurance provider to understand your specific out-of-network benefits and pre-authorization requirements.

Question 3

Do I need a referral or prescription to get started?

Accepted Answer

No. In California, you do not need a referral or prescription to begin physical therapy. Under California's Direct Access law, your child can receive physical therapy for up to 45 days or 12 visits (whichever comes first) before a physician's signature on the plan of care is required. To make the process as easy as possible, Welldom will coordinate with your child's pediatrician to obtain any required documentation on your behalf. This allows your child to begin therapy sooner, helping to minimize delays and support timely, effective care. If you're seeking occupational therapy, speech therapy, or physical therapy, referral requirements may vary depending on your family's needs or insurance plan. We're happy to answer your questions and guide you through the process.

Question 4

Welldom is a provider for RCEB. What does that mean?

Accepted Answer

The Regional Center of the East Bay (RCEB) provides services and support to eligible infants, children, and adults with developmental disabilities and delays in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties. Through its Early Start program, RCEB helps families access early intervention services during the critical early years of development. If your child is eligible for RCEB services, RCEB may authorize and fund therapy services at Welldom, allowing your child to receive the care they need. If you're unsure whether your child qualifies, we're happy to answer your questions and help guide you through the process.

Question 5

I am ready for an appointment. What is the process?

Accepted Answer

We're excited to meet your family.

Question 6

What do I expect on the first visit?

Accepted Answer

Here's what you can expect.

Question 7

How do I know if my child needs therapy — occupational (OT), physical (PT), or speech therapy?

Accepted Answer

Every child develops at their own pace, but if you have concerns about your child's movement, communication, sensory processing, feeding, play, learning, or ability to participate in everyday activities, a therapy evaluation can help. An evaluation doesn't always mean your child needs ongoing therapy — it provides a better understanding of their strengths, challenges, and whether support may be beneficial.

Question 8

I'm not sure if my child needs therapy. Can I talk to a therapist?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We understand that deciding whether to seek therapy can feel overwhelming. We're happy to answer your questions, learn more about your concerns, and help you determine whether an evaluation or consultation would be the best next step. There is never any obligation to begin services.

Question 9

How long is a therapy session?

Accepted Answer

Most therapy sessions are 45–60 minutes, depending on your child's age, needs, and treatment plan. Evaluation appointments are typically longer to allow time for assessment, discussion, and recommendations.

Question 10

How long will my child be in treatment?

Accepted Answer

Every child is unique, so there isn't a one-size-fits-all answer. The length of therapy depends on your child's strengths, goals, and progress. Some children benefit from short-term support, while others may benefit from ongoing therapy over a longer period. We regularly review progress with families and adjust recommendations as your child's needs change. Carryover of strategies at home and other settings plays an important role in your child's transition to independence.

Question 11

Can my child receive occupational therapy at home or in the community?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Depending on your child's needs and goals, Welldom also offers therapy at home and in the community, or through consultation with your child's educational team. Therapy in natural environments can help children practice skills where they use them every day and support meaningful carryover.

Question 12

My child already has an individualized education program (IEP) or individualized family service plan (IFSP) through school. Can we still work with you?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. School-based therapy and private therapy often complement one another. Services provided through an IEP or IFSP are designed to support your child's participation in educational settings, while private therapy can address additional goals that support everyday life at home, in the community, and during leisure activities.

Question 13

Will you talk to my child's school team?

Accepted Answer

With your written permission, we're happy to collaborate with teachers, school therapists, physicians, and other professionals involved in your child's care. Working together helps create consistent strategies and supports your child's success across home, school, and community environments.

Question 14

What can I do at home to support the services my child is receiving?

Accepted Answer

Families play an important role in helping children make meaningful progress. Your therapist will provide individualized strategies, activities, and recommendations that fit naturally into your family's daily routines. Small, consistent opportunities for practice often have the greatest impact, and we're here to support you every step of the way. We believe that carryover of strategies at home is very crucial for meeting therapy goals. Consistency is important across all settings.

Question 15

Do you offer group therapy sessions?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We offer a variety of small-group therapy programs throughout the year, including seasonal groups and nature-based therapeutic playgroups that promote motor, social, communication, and play skills in a fun, supportive environment. Group offerings vary by season and are designed to help children build confidence while connecting with peers.

Question 16

Can I come for a tour before I schedule an evaluation?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We'd love to welcome you to Welldom. You're invited to schedule a tour of our clinic, meet our team, and learn more about our services. Visiting beforehand is a great way to ask questions, see our therapy spaces, and decide whether Welldom is the right fit for your family.

Frequently Asked Questions

Welldom Therapy Process

Payment

Therapy Sessions

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