Watch the video below to get an overview of our Vision Therapy Department!
Vision Therapy can benefit those of all ages who have a variety of conditions related to learning, concussion, and/or brain injury. Whether you or your child's annual appointment is held at NYC Pupil or another provider, the Doctor will see you or your child to determine prevalent issues and select necessary testing for your evaluation.
Initial Evaluation
Our evaluation begins with a very detailed questionnaire that can be completed prior to your visit on line, or mailed or dropped off at our office prior to your visit. Any additional information (school performance testing, prior eye examination records, therapy reports) are extremely helpful for the doctor to review before your visit. Expect your testing to last from 1 to 1 1/2 hours. The purpose of this testing is to determine if visual information is being acquired and processed comfortably, clearly, accurately, and efficiently. This requires the two eyes to be able to focus correctly, align so that you do not see double vision, and both eyes are tracking efficiently. The Doctor will determine and make recommendations pertaining to length and frequency of Vision Therapy.
Vision Therapy
Once you or your child is enrolled in Vision Therapy, our therapists will work with you/them weekly for however long the Doctor recommends. Sessions are 45 minutes and include a variety of exercises to strengthen whichever skills were identified as an area of concern. Homework is typically assigned between sessions to ensure practice throughout the week.
Re-Evaluation
During the initial consultation, the Doctor will also advise when re-evaluations should occur so that we may track your or your child's progress. At the re-evaluation, some testing from the initial evaluation may be repeated prior to seeing the Doctor. Once with the Doctor, she will perform any remaining necessary tests and make recommendations for if/how therapy should proceed (how many more sessions and the focus of treatment, or whether you or your child is graduating!).
Vision Therapy FAQs
There is more to vision therapy than simply strengthening the eyes. It also enhances the neurological connections between the eyes and the brain. Eyes are the windows of the brain. It directly influences sight based on how it interprets images received. A healthy connection between the eyes and the brain is essential for good eyesight. Here are answers to frequently asked questions about the nature of vision therapy:
How does vision therapy work?
It uses progressive vision exercises performed under the supervision of your eye care provider. Each set of exercises is tailored to meet the individual visual needs of a patient. These exercises are done 1-2 times per week in sessions lasting 30 minutes to a full hour. The exercises are designed to continue until visual processing problems show improvement.
What is the purpose of the vision exercises?
Vision exercises are designed to help patients improve basic visual skills that connect the eyes with the brain. These exercises can improve visual efficiency by changing how a patient interprets images. This helps them see and understand images correctly.
Do these exercises simply strengthen eye muscles?
Nothing about vision therapy is centered on strengthening eye muscles. These muscles can be strengthened through orthoptics if they need strengthening. This therapy is all about improving vision problems that may interfere with learning by strengthening the neurological pathways between the eyes and the brain.
What is the first step in a vision therapy program?
A comprehensive vision exam is necessary before starting therapy. Following the exam, your eye care provider can determine whether or not this type of therapy is the recommended treatment for your vision problems.
Is there scientific evidence that it really works?
It does work. Studies on vision therapy show it is effective in improving the lives of patients. Data shows that this therapy can improve visual function enough to keep it from interfering with a patient's ability to absorb information and learn. In its own sphere, this therapy is as effective as physical therapy or occupational therapy.
Who typically needs vision therapy?
It can be a useful tool for helping children and adults alike. Children with learning or reading problems can benefit from the vision boost these exercises provide. Eyeglasses are not the solution when the problem is visual processing. These problems can't be detected without tests done by an eye doctor. Adults can see vision improvement through this therapy as well. It can help curb eye-strain related vision processing problems brought on by working with computers all day.
How can I learn more about th efficacy of Vision Therapy?
We have compiled references you can check out to learn more about the research and findings behind Vision Therapy. Click here to view these sources.
