Speech and Occupational Therapy Together: A Powerful Approach in Phnom Penh

Children with developmental challenges rarely struggle in just one area. A child with speech delay might also have trouble sitting still, using utensils, or handling loud environments. That’s why at OrbRom Center in Phnom Penh, we offer a collaborative therapy model—combining the strengths of speech-language therapy and occupational therapy to support the whole child.

This integrated approach leads to faster progress, better outcomes, and more meaningful participation in daily life.

Why Combine Speech and Occupational Therapy?

While speech therapists focus on communication, language, articulation, and feeding, occupational therapists (OTs) focus on:

• Fine motor skills (writing, using tools)

• Sensory processing (handling sound, texture, movement)

• Attention and regulation

• Daily living activities (dressing, eating, routines)

When delivered together, these therapies support each other. For example:

• A child can’t speak clearly if they have weak oral motor muscles

• Sensory overload may shut down a child’s ability to express themselves

• A child won’t write well if they can’t hold a pencil properly

• Trouble with planning affects both speech and physical tasks

At OrbRom Center, therapists work side-by-side to align goals and ensure consistent support across all areas of development.

Learn more about occupational therapy and how it connects to communication success.

How Integrated Therapy Sessions Work

In a joint or coordinated program at OrbRom, a child might:

• Start with 30 minutes of sensory regulation (OT) to prepare the brain for learning

• Then transition to speech work with improved attention and body awareness

• Use shared tools, like visual schedules or weighted items, across both sessions

For example:

• A child working on WH questions and storytelling in speech therapy may also be practicing sequencing and visual memory in OT

• A child with feeding issues may see both therapists—OT addressing sensory aversions, while speech focuses on chewing and swallowing mechanics

This whole-child approach ensures that no therapy operates in isolation.

Who Benefits Most From Combined Therapy?

Integrated speech and OT services are ideal for children with:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder

• ADHD or executive function challenges

• Sensory Processing Disorder

• Developmental coordination delay

• Speech and language disorders

• Feeding and oral motor problems

It’s especially powerful for children who need help regulating behavior, understanding language, and improving physical coordination all at once.

For example, read about how sensory tools help in therapy.

Parent Involvement: A Shared Strategy

Our approach is never limited to the therapy room. We coach parents to:

• Use consistent vocabulary, visual cues, and routines at home

• Practice both speech and motor tasks together (e.g., narrating while drawing)

• Follow daily activity schedules that reinforce self-regulation

Families get a unified plan with goals and home carryover strategies from both therapists. This reduces confusion and improves generalization of skills across environments.

Check out our parenting tips blog: Helping Children Succeed at Home and School

Why OrbRom Center?

OrbRom Center is Phnom Penh’s leading provider of multi-disciplinary therapy. Our strengths include:

• Licensed speech and occupational therapists

• Shared therapy planning for consistent progress

• Khmer-English bilingual support

• Sensory-informed therapy spaces

• Developmental and academic assessments under one roof

From first words to fine motor skills, we create an environment where collaboration builds confidence.

Final Thoughts: One Child, One Team

When children struggle in multiple areas, the solution shouldn’t be piecemeal. At OrbRom Center, our coordinated speech and occupational therapy helps children thrive in every aspect of their development—language, motor skills, sensory needs, and confidence.

Start integrated therapy at OrbRom Center today