We are deep into Chapter 1 Barriers to Driving. I’m exploring the topic from all viewpoints (we’ve heard from autistic teens and adults, their families, and driving instructors) and today I’d like to weigh in on what occupational and physical therapists observe in the autistic clients they work with to build pre-driving skills. What do they do exactly you might ask? Let’s explore that in Part 1 of Barriers to Driving as Perceived by Occupational and Physical Therapists.
Occupational Therapists (OTs)
What they focus on: fine motor skills, motor planning, coordination, sensory motor integration, balance, and motor organization.
Occupational therapists support individuals who experience motor coordination challenges by creating engaging, supportive activities that build body awareness, balance, and coordination over time. Sessions might include swings, obstacle courses, or carefully graded tasks to help the body organize and respond more smoothly.
OTs break complex skills into manageable steps and practice them in real-life situations so learning feels meaningful and practical. Many are trained in sensory integration therapy, which strengthens both sensory processing and motor coordination. They also support motor planning — the ability to think through, organize, and carry out skilled movements — an important area for many autistic individuals.
Physical Therapists (PTs)
What they focus on: gross motor skills, balance, posture, strength, and walking patterns.
Physical therapists specialize in gross motor skills — using larger muscle groups for balance, walking, running, and posture. They help build strength, stability, flexibility, and motor control to support smoother, more confident movement.
When working with autistic individuals, PTs often address coordination differences related to gait, balance, and overall gross motor control.Occupational therapists and physical therapists don’t just “fix” motor coordination — they support skill development in a person-centered way.
Their work is often playful, gradual, and respectful of individual pace. They frequently collaborate with families, teachers, caregivers, and other health professionals to embed motor learning into daily life — not just clinical exercises.
Here’s the good news: Many individuals who once experienced frustration with movement eventually report greater confidence, smoother coordination, and more independence in everyday activities thanks to these therapies!
I’ve grouped their observations about autistic drivers (or wanna-be drivers) into categories in Part 2 of this article (up on the blog soon!), and included a few links to companion articles. And you can bet that in later chapters I’ll be giving hands-on actionable steps you can take. Just be patient as this book unfolds. Let me hear your thoughts if you think there is more that can or should be included as we go!