Somatic symptom disorders are a group of disorders, all of which fit the definition of physical symptoms similar to those observed in physical disease or injury for which there is no identifiable physical cause. As such, they are a diagnosis of exclusion.
Occupational therapists use special equipment to help children with developmental disabilities. Occupational therapists treat injured, ill, or disabled patients through the therapeutic use of everyday activities. They help these patients develop, recover, and improve the skills needed for daily living and working.
Therapists working with children with autism focus try to focus on each child's individual strengths, teaching them to function to their highest potential. Working in such a challenging environment can be satisfying and rewarding. In addition to obtaining training in general therapy, many professionals working with autistic children acquire a master's degree in applied behavioral analysis or ABA, which requires additional education.