Centerpointe for Children is pleased to welcome Richard Furbush, M.S., OTR/L, to our team of experienced pediatric occupational therapy professionals. With more than 25 years of experience as an occupational therapist and more than 40 years of experience working with children with autism, Richard brings an extensive background in pediatric therapy, sensory integration, behavioral principles, and supporting children with complex developmental needs.
For families searching for experienced pediatric occupational therapy in Irvine and Orange County, having access to professionals with a deep understanding of childhood development can make an important difference. Richard's experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults adds another valuable perspective to the collaborative team at Centerpointe for Children.
Decades of Experience Working With Children
Richard's professional career has focused extensively on children and young people with developmental and neurological differences. His background includes working with non-verbal children, adolescents, and young adults, including individuals whose communication may be difficult to understand through traditional approaches.
This experience has helped Richard develop a strong interest in understanding each child's individual communicative intent, abilities, challenges, and sensory needs. His approach reflects the importance of looking beyond a diagnosis and considering how a child experiences and interacts with the world around them.
Richard has worked with children with diagnoses including autism, cerebral palsy, Fragile X syndrome, and Down syndrome. His clinical background also includes significant experience with behaviorism and the application of behavioral principles within therapeutic settings.
A Strong Background in Sensory Integration
Sensory processing and sensory-motor development can play an important role in a child's ability to participate in everyday activities. Occupational therapy can help children develop skills that support participation, independence, learning, play, and daily routines.
Richard's professional experience incorporates sensory integrative theory along with behavioral principles as treatment approaches. This background aligns well with Centerpointe for Children's commitment to evidence-based pediatric occupational therapy and its focus on helping children build a strong foundation for participation and well-being.
Centerpointe for Children provides pediatric therapy with a focus on sensory-motor opportunities and skill development, including services informed by Ayres Sensory Integration® (ASI) principles.
Experience as a Teacher, Supervisor, Therapist, and Consultant
Richard's experience extends beyond direct occupational therapy. Earlier in his career, he worked as a teacher, supervisor, and occupational therapist at a private residential school serving children and adolescents with autism.
He has also served as a consultant for the Virginia Autism Resource Center (VARC), giving him experience supporting professionals and families beyond the traditional clinical setting.
In addition, Richard has presented courses and workshops to therapists and parents both locally and internationally. His willingness to share his knowledge and collaborate with families reflects an important part of Centerpointe for Children's philosophy: supporting not only the child, but the people involved in that child's development.
Education and Professional Preparation
Richard holds multiple advanced degrees supporting his work with children and families. His education includes:
- Master of Science in Occupational Therapy
- Master of Science in Child and Family Studies, with minor concentrations in Psychology and Special Education
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology
This multidisciplinary educational background complements his decades of clinical experience and his understanding of occupational therapy, psychology, special education, child development, and behavioral principles.
Supporting Families Throughout Orange County
Richard currently resides in Orange County and works through the Office of Dr. Susanne Smith Roley conducting Independent Educational Evaluations. He also works as an independent contractor and therapist through SKY Pediatrics, a private clinic in Irvine.
His addition to the Centerpointe for Children team gives families another experienced professional to turn to when they are seeking knowledgeable pediatric occupational therapy and evaluation services in the Irvine and Orange County area.
For parents, finding the right occupational therapist is about more than credentials. Experience working with children who have different communication styles, sensory needs, developmental profiles, and learning challenges can provide valuable insight when developing an individualized approach.
Welcome to the Centerpointe for Children Team
We are excited to welcome Richard Furbush to Centerpointe for Children and look forward to the knowledge, experience, and collaborative perspective he brings to our pediatric therapy team.
If you are a parent looking for pediatric occupational therapy in Irvine, Orange County, or the surrounding Southern California communities, Centerpointe for Children is here to help you understand your child's needs and explore appropriate evaluation and therapy options.
Contact Centerpointe for Children to learn more about our pediatric occupational therapy services or to schedule an initial screening or assessment.