Sarah Julia Shahparast, OTR/L
Pediatric Occupational Therapy in Chatham, NJ
Families in Chatham trust Sarah Julia OT for warm, child-centered pediatric occupational therapy that supports sensory processing, emotional regulation, handwriting, fine motor skill development, and confidence in daily routines.
We partner closely with families and teachers to help children participate more fully at home, in the classroom, and in their community. Our approach is strengths-based, neurodiversity-affirming, and designed to meet the needs of autistic, ADHD, and sensory-sensitive learners through highly individualized, play-based interventions.
Why Families Choose Sarah Julia OT​
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Many families we work with in Chatham are looking for support that feels personal, responsive, and aligned with how their child learns. They want practical tools for school participation, better independence during daily routines, and help managing sensory or emotional challenges. Parents also value strong communication with their child’s teacher so strategies carry over into the classroom and become part of everyday life.
We Provide Both In-Home & School-Based OT Services
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Supporting children directly in their familiar environments allows us to work on real daily challenges — morning transitions, homework routines, self-regulation at school, navigating busy classrooms, or staying focused during structured activities. By collaborating with teachers and integrating strategies into a child’s natural day, we help them build meaningful skills that last.
Sensory Processing and Emotional Regulation
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We help children develop tools to manage overwhelming sensory input, build their body awareness, stay organized during transitions, and identify what their bodies need to feel calm and regulated. Sessions incorporate movement, play, deep pressure, sensory exploration, and co-regulation strategies to help children thrive in busy environments like Chatham’s classrooms.
Fine Motor Skills, Handwriting & School Success
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Children who struggle with handwriting, grasp, scissor use, coloring strength, or visual-motor integration benefit from targeted, playful interventions that build foundational skills. We support early writing, pencil control, hand strength, visual tracking, and school readiness so students can meet and exceed classroom expectations with confidence.
Support for Autism, ADHD & Neurodivergent Learners​
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We specialize in supporting children with autism and ADHD by using an affirming, child-led approach. Sessions focus on communication through play, emotional awareness, flexibility, executive functioning, and participation in daily routines. Each child’s strengths guide the session so therapy feels safe, engaging, and successful.
Serving Children and Families Across Union and Essex Counties in NJ
We proudly support families across Union and Essex Counties, including the towns of Chatham, Chatham Township, Summit, Millburn, Short Hills, Madison, Westfield, Livingston and Florham Park. Whether your child needs help with sensory processing, handwriting, emotional regulation, or school readiness, we bring therapy directly to the environments where children learn and thrive.
Please Don't Hesitate to Reach Out​ with Any Questions
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If you’re noticing sensory challenges, emotional regulation difficulties, handwriting concerns, fine motor delays, or school participation issues, we’re here to help. Our goal is to empower children and families through compassionate, individualized therapy that makes everyday life easier and more joyful.