What Is Feeding Therapy? A Parent-Friendly Guide from Therapy Redefined

At Therapy Redefined, we proudly support families across Indianapolis, Carmel, and the surrounding Central Indiana communities. We know that mealtimes can be one of the biggest stressors for parents. Whether your child struggles with picky eating, difficulty swallowing, or mealtime anxiety, you’re not alone and there is support right here in your local area.

One of the most effective ways to help children build healthier and more enjoyable eating habits is through feeding therapy.

Feeding therapy is a specialized intervention designed to help children who have challenges eating, chewing, swallowing, or tolerating different foods. It is typically provided by licensed occupational therapists (OTs) and speech-language pathologists (SLPs) with training in feeding and swallowing.

Families often seek feeding therapy when mealtimes become stressful, limited, or unsafe. Our goal is simple: help your child learn to eat in a way that feels safe, confident, and enjoyable.

Why Your Child May Need Feeding Therapy

Children may benefit from feeding therapy for many reasons, including:

• Extreme picky eating or very limited food variety

• Gagging, choking, or difficulty chewing

• Avoiding certain textures or temperatures

• Oral-motor delays

• Sensory processing differences

• Autism, prematurity, or reflux-related challenges

• Mealtime meltdowns, stress, or anxiety

• Difficulty transitioning from purees to solids

If you’re unsure whether your child needs feeding therapy, families across Indianapolis, Carmel, Westfield, Fishers, and Zionsville often start with an evaluation to get clarity and peace of mind.

How Feeding Therapy Works at Therapy Redefined

Every child is unique, so we create a personalized plan based on your child's needs. Our feeding therapy program typically includes:

1. Comprehensive Evaluation

We begin by reviewing your child’s medical history, oral-motor skills, sensory responses, and current eating patterns. Local families appreciate that they don’t have to travel far—we offer services convenient to both North Indianapolis and Hamilton County.

2. Goal-Based Therapy Sessions

Your child may work on:

• Oral-motor strengthening

• Trying new textures and flavors

• Improving chewing and swallowing skills

• Reducing mealtime anxiety

• Exploring food through fun, play-based approaches

Our therapists use evidence-based techniques such as sensory-based feeding, oral-motor interventions, and responsive feeding methods.

3. Parent Coaching

We support parents with strategies to use at home, including routines, language to use at meals, and ways to help your child feel confident trying new foods.

4. Collaborative Care

We work with pediatricians, GI specialists, dietitians, and other local healthcare providers throughout Indianapolis and Carmel to ensure your child receives comprehensive care.

Looking for mealtime help for your child? Contact us so we can partner together to help your child thrive.