Therapy explained
The ORCA FAQ: your questions, answered
Twenty questions parents actually ask us — about the concept, the sessions, the intensives, the costs and everything in between — answered honestly and in plain English.
Choosing a therapy approach for your child raises a hundred questions — and you deserve straight answers to all of them. Below are the ones we hear most often about ORCA — Objective Reasoning & Clinical Architecture, our multisensory intensive concept. If yours isn't here, just ask us directly.
The basics
What is ORCA?
ORCA is a multisensory intensive concept developed by Fabienne Theler. It combines targeted input for touch, balance, sound and movement with modern paediatric physiotherapy, is built on family-centred care with an individual home programme — and always works towards clearly defined goals.
Which children is it suitable for?
Babies, toddlers and school-age children with motor or sensory delays — for example cerebral palsy, genetic syndromes, hypotonia, balance difficulties or developmental delay after premature birth.
What goals does it work towards?
- Automating milestones such as rolling, sitting, crawling, standing and walking
- Better posture, coordination and muscle strength
- Regulating muscle tone and sensory processing
- Growing confidence and everyday independence
Inside a session
What does a typical session look like?
Arrival, check-in and a playful warm-up; then sensory activation; then targeted therapy sequences with the chosen tools; and finally a cool-down with a parent briefing, home-plan update and a check against the goals. Every step follows the family-centred model — you're in the room, not in the waiting room.
Which therapy tools do you use?
Depending on the child: DMI exercises, the Galileo vibration plate, NISE-Stim and TASES electrical stimulation, TheraTogs, PediaSuit and TheraSuit, the Spider Cage, mobility tools, serial and Dynaflex casting, astronaut training and modern paediatric physiotherapy.
How is the therapy tailored to my child?
Through a thorough assessment with measurable goals and an individual tool selection. We use standardised tests such as GMFM, PDMS-3 or Bayley-III, sensory profiles, strength, tone and joint-mobility checks — plus a family conversation to understand the real everyday hurdles.
How do you integrate DMI into ORCA?
DMI forms the motor backbone. We use it in short, high-frequency series while sensory tools put the brain "on receive" at the same time — for faster, longer-lasting learning.
Intensive programmes
What is an ORCA intensive?
An individually planned block of three to six therapy days per week, running from one or two weeks up to three months. Length, frequency and tools depend on your child's goals and stamina. We've written a complete guide to ORCA intensives if you want the full picture.
Are there waiting times?
For single sessions, on average two to three weeks. Intensive programmes carry a waiting list of around twelve weeks, and many families secure their preferred dates months ahead. Last-minute slots that open up are announced in our parent groups and on social media.
Can ORCA be combined with other therapies?
Yes — it sits comfortably alongside speech therapy, occupational therapy, hippotherapy or early-intervention programmes. We coordinate closely with your doctors, teachers and therapists, and orthotic devices are available directly on site.
Progress, costs and insurance
How do you measure progress?
With standardised tests (GMFM, PDMS-3), video-based movement analysis, goal-attainment scales (GAS) and regular re-assessments. You'll never have to settle for "we think it's working" — you'll see it in the numbers. More on our assessment page.
Will health insurance cover the costs?
Physiotherapy services are often covered when medically prescribed. In Switzerland, several health insurers and the IV have already covered ORCA programmes in full. Our advice: talk to your insurer early and actively — and talk to us first, so we can prepare the reports that make your case. Details are on our fees page.
Why do touch and deep-pressure input matter?
Targeted touch activates the proprioceptive system, sharpens body awareness and primes brain and muscles for new movement. We use hands-on techniques, weighted cuffs, therapy balls and vibration.
And why are balance (vestibular) stimuli so important?
Acceleration, spinning and swinging stimulate the balance system. Combined with visual and tactile input, they improve balance, posture and eye–movement control.
For parents: your role and next steps
What can I do between sessions?
You'll get a home plan of short, playful activities that consolidate what your child learned in therapy — designed to fit real family life, not an ideal one.
What if my child doesn't feel like it at first?
ORCA follows the principle of quality over quantity. Our therapists continuously read your child's signals, adjust the intensity and switch to playful sequences when things get too much. With recovery windows, favourite toys and lots of encouragement, trust grows quickly. Practical tips: arrive well rested, bring a snack and a familiar toy.
Who will be working with your child?
- All our physiotherapists are state-certified, with DMI certification up to Intermediate A.
- Continuous further training in neuropaediatrics, electrical and vibration therapy, PediaSuit and TheraSuit methods, Spider Cage therapy and sensory integration.
- One team, one plan — coordinated in regular case meetings.
How does the first conversation work?
Online or on site: we discuss your goals, look at your child's first movements together and plan the most sensible way in — single sessions or an intensive block. Book a first conversation; it's free and without obligation.
I still have questions — how do I reach you?
Through the contact form, or directly by phone or WhatsApp on +41 44 688 10 11. We usually reply within the hour.
