DIR® / Floortime®

DIR®/Floortime® is a comprehensive, evidence-based framework that helps caregivers understand a child’s unique developmental profile. It assesses developmental level, individual differences (such as sensory or communication styles), and relationship patterns that support growth. Through playful, child-led interactions, caregivers learn to follow their child’s lead, expand engagement, support flexible thinking, and strengthen emotional development.

DIR / Floortime Buffalo NY Ott Counseling

What is DIR® / Floortime®?

DIR®/Floortime® therapy is a play-based, relationship-focused approach used to support the emotional, cognitive, and social development of children. It’s especially helpful for children with autism and other developmental delays, meeting them at their current level and encouraging growth through nurturing, engaging interactions. Rather than relying on directives, the therapist follows the child’s lead, building trust and gently guiding them toward more complex forms of communication and problem-solving. Sessions involve both the child and their caregiver, which helps reinforce progress at home. At Ott Counseling, we use DIR®/Floortime® to help children build meaningful skills through joyful connection.

What Age are your Clients?

Infants

Toddlers

Young Children

Caregivers

DIR® / Floortime® is primarily designed for infants, toddlers, and young children - typically between the ages of 12 months and 8 years old - who are experiencing developmental, emotional, or sensory challenges. However, some principles of the model can be adapted for older children depending on developmental needs and goals. At Ott Counseling, our therapists tailor each session to your child’s unique stage of development rather than a strict age range, ensuring support that meets them right where they are.

We Love DIR® / Floortime® For...

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Sensory Challenges

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Autism

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Emotional Regulation

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Speech Delays

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Attachment Difficulties

Is DIR® / Floortime® Right For Me?

Here are a few of the questions that we frequently get asked about DIR® / Floortime®. Curious if this therapy might be helpful for you? Always feel free to contact us with additional questions or to schedule an appointment with one of our licensed therapists.

  • What makes DIR® / Floortime® different from traditional therapy?

    These approaches are play-based and relationship-focused, making them ideal for young children who may not be able to express themselves through words alone. This form of therapy allows the therapist and caregivers to get on the child's level through other forms of communication - not just words.

  • Do you offer DIR® / Floortime® therapy for toddlers and preschoolers?

    Yes - many of our clients begin therapy between ages 2 and 5, and sessions are tailored to meet each child's developmental needs. Speech delays, autism, attachment issues, and other concerns that DIR® can help support are often seen in very young children, but can also absolutely include those younger than 2 and sometimes older than 5.

  • Can parents participate in DIR® & Floortime® sessions?

    Absolutely! Caregiver involvement is a key part of the process, helping to build connection and reinforce strategies at home. The more we can help you learn and support your child, the greater the progress we often see both in and out of the office.

  • Is this therapy only for kids with autism?

    No. While DIR® / Floortime® is well-known for helping children with autism, they also benefit kids with many other challenges emotional regulation struggles, developmental delays, speech delays and sensory sensitivities.

  • How do I know if this type of therapy is right for my child?

    Our team offers consultations to discuss your concerns and help determine whether DIR® / Floortime® is a good fit for your child’s needs and personality. We also may have other suggestions on therapies that may be helpful, and always customize our approach to every child's needs.

  • Can this therapy be combined with speech or occupational therapy?

    Yes  - we often collaborate with other providers to ensure your child’s care is comprehensive and well-coordinated. If you are currently seeing a speech therapist this will be information that we ask about in your initial session.

  • Where do you offer DIR® / Floortime® therapy?

    Ott Counseling provides these services locally in Western New York, with in-person support for families in the Buffalo and Williamsville areas. We also offer virtual sessions for anyone residing in New York State.

  • What are some signs my child might benefit from this therapy?

    If your child struggles with eye contact, social engagement, flexible thinking, or emotional outbursts, this approach may offer helpful tools and support.

  • Do you offer support for parents or caregivers too?

    Yes, we often provide parent coaching alongside child sessions to help caregivers feel confident and supported throughout the therapy journey. This also helps the child continue their progress at home with your support!

Meet Your Therapists

Our Licensed Therapists at Ott Counseling come from all walks of life and embrace a wide variety of specialties. Schedule an appointment with a specific therapist, or feel free to contact us through our website and we can help you find the right fit.

Check out our latest therapy insights on our blog!

Blog Post: How Do I Know Which Kind of Therapy Is Right for My Child? (And Meet Our New Specialist)
By Ott Counseling December 3, 2025
Just like there’s no “one perfect therapy” for adults, there isn’t a single right choice for every child. Learn more about child therapy options in our recent blog!
Click to read blog: Which Trauma Therapy Is Right for Me?
By Ott Counseling October 13, 2025
As therapists, we know that healing from trauma isn’t one-size-fits-all… Here we examine EMDR, Progressive Counting, and Brainspotting as therapy options for trauma.
Click to read blog post: You're Getting on My Nerves(ous) System
By Ott Counseling August 1, 2025
“It’s all in your head.” Ah, yes, the least helpful advice ever given to anyone who has felt anxiety.

Explore Your Therapy Options

Acceptance & Commitment Therapy

Brainspotting

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Creative & Body-Based Interventions

Dialectical Behavior Therapy

DIR®/ Floortime®

Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing

Internal Family Systems

Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction

Music Therapy

Nurture and Play

Progressive Counting

Schema Therapy

Theraplay®

A Little Client Love

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5 stars

Ott Counseling has, without mincing words, put in more time, effort, and energy into my mental health above and beyond any other therapist I have seen in decades. Patient, evidence-based, and extremely up-to-date on the latest therapy modalities and research. Would, quite literally, not be here to write this review had it not been for this practice and the people in it.

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5 stars

I have been meeting with [my therapist] and I am REALLY happy with how that's going as well. He is WONDERFUL so far. He is super attentive, empathetic and I have found myself saying 'Exactly!' multiple times. He really seems to get me.

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5 stars

I hope you know how much you helped me through a very tough time. I wish you and Ott Counseling all of the best!

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5 stars

I may never be able to find the words to tell you just how much you saved me, my marriage, and my faith in myself.

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5 stars

You helped me more than you can ever know. You saved our lives quite literally and I can never repay you except to tell you just how much you did for my son and I.

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5 stars

XXXX just loved [Ott Counseling]. She was super nervous all day yesterday and told us it would be a one and done thing. She said (before the appointment) even if she ever did do it again, it would be virtual. Well, she came out of the room and said she WOULD be doing it again, AND she wanted to do it in person lol. She was bummed she has to wait so long until her next appointment. It sounds like she felt very comfortable opening up to [her].

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5 stars

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR BEING THE FIRST POSITIVE PERSON IN MY LIFE!

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5 stars

Of all of the people in my life who have helped me, you made the biggest difference. You repeatedly supported + uplifted me. Thank you.