Goal Directed Therapy, a Practical Approach in LMIC Settings

Target Audience: Clinicians, therapists, parents, researchers

Background 

Children with cerebral palsy need multiple therapies and ongoing training. Their success depends on clear, goal-directed planning. Using the SMART framework helps set meaningful, achievable goals developed together by the child, parents, and care team. Shared motivation, commitment, and regular home practice build the high-intensity approach needed to achieve the best outcomes in limited-resource settings.

Objectives  

· Review evidence-based interventions for children with cerebral palsy (CP).

· Highlight the principles and benefits of goal-directed therapy.

· Explore strategies for effective goal setting and treatment planning.

· Identify key elements for empowering families in the rehabilitation process.

· Discuss case studies illustrating common goals and integrated physical, occupational, and home-based programs to achieve them.

Workshop Contents/Schedule

· Session 1: Evidence-based interventions in CP, goal directed therapy, goal setting & treatment planning strategies, and keys for family empowerment 

· Session 2: Case studies - common goals in children with CP, how to design physical & occupational therapies with home programs to serve the set goal 

· Q & A

Learning Outcomes 

· Describe current evidence-based interventions used in the management of children with CP.

· Explain the concept and advantages of goal-directed therapy

· Apply SMART goal principles to develop individualized treatment plans.

· Demonstrate strategies to enhance family participation and empowerment in therapy.

· Integrate physical, occupational, and home-based interventions to achieve shared functional goals through case-based learning.

Facilitators/Speakers 

· Assoc. Prof. Teerada Ploypetch, MD

· Ms. Jiratchaya Soitikul, PT

· Ms. Pitchayaorn Mangkonkarn, OT

Division of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine,

Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.