In Capanema, State reaches 2,933 thousand Occupational Therapy sessions

As a reference in specialized care for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), the Autism Spectrum Disorder Care Center (Natea) of Caetés, located in Capanema, performed 2,933 Occupational Therapy (O.T) sessions between January and June 2025. The unit is part of the state health network, through the State Department of Public Health (Sespa).

Occupational Therapy is integrated into the work of the Natea's multiprofessional team and plays an essential role in the sensory development of the assisted children. The work directly contributes to advances in autonomy, behavior, and quality of life for users, with monthly sessions for approximately 300 children from 16 municipalities in the Caetés region.

Sensory stimulation and development

Occupational therapist Aline Chaves, who works in the Sensory Integration room at Natea, explains that sensory impairment is common among children with ASD and can impact various areas of development. “Many autistic individuals have difficulty processing and interpreting the sensory stimuli they receive daily. This difficulty leads to inappropriate responses, such as stereotypies and self-injurious behaviors, interfering with social relationships, motor skills, and cognition. Sensory integration aims to stimulate the brain to correctly interpret these stimuli, promoting more adequate development,” she explained.

Advances perceived by families

Resident of Capanema, Carla Maria da Silva Cordovil, 42 years old, is the caregiver of Antônio Ítalo dos Reis Barbosa, 16 years old, who has been undergoing therapies at Natea for almost two years. For her, the advances are evident. “This care has helped a lot. He already does some activities that he didn't do before, like entering a pharmacy and socializing more, being able to stay in places with more people. This, for me, is a great advance,” she reported.

Specialized and free care

The Natea Caetés is part of the Caetés Hospital Complex (CHC) and has a multiprofessional team composed of speech therapists, psychologists, occupational therapists, physical education professionals, social workers, nursing professionals, and caregivers. All services are offered 100% by the Unified Health System (SUS).

Service: The Caetés Hospital Complex (CHC) is managed by the National Institute of Social and Human Development (INDSH), in partnership with the State Department of Public Health (Sespa). The unit is located at Avenida Barão de Capanema, Centro neighborhood, in Capanema. Information: (91) 3122-7391.

Text by Felipe Brito