Treatment Program FAQs
Q: What Kinds of Disabilities do you Treat?
A: We specialize in treating children with autism, brain injury, and cerebral palsy; however, we see patients of all ages with a variety of disabilities and disorders. Our team holds certifications in the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics, Apraxia-DTTC/PROMPT, Hippotherapy, Assistive Technology, and Dyslexia.
Q: What Kinds of Therapies do you Offer?
A: We provide outpatient speech therapy five days a week from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. We hope to expand again to occupational and physical therapy in the future. Our therapy approach combines traditional methods with innovative rehabilitative tools such as hippotherapy (therapy with the help of a horse), horticulture therapy, and animal-assisted therapy. This integrative approach helps patients achieve independence and communicative progress more effectively. We also offer an intensive, inpatient program for autism and other disorders, where the family stays and works on-premises at Diane’s House for extended treatment.
Q: How often do your Patients Receive Therapy? How Long is each Session?
A: Therapy frequency is determined by the evaluation and patient needs. Some patients receive therapy daily, but most attend sessions two to three times weekly. Evaluations typically last two hours, and therapy sessions average one hour.
Q: Do your Services Require a Physician’s Order?
A: Yes, therapy services must be prescribed by a physician. Our team works with doctors, therapists, and families to help patients achieve their rehabilitation goals.
Q: How Much do you Charge for your Services?
A: Nature’s Edge charges $350 for an evaluation and $175 per treatment session.
Q: What Insurance Providers do you Work with?
A: We provide a HCFA 1500 superbill with diagnostic and treatment coding for families to submit to their insurance. However, we are not an in-network provider for any insurance plans. Our rates are kept affordable to assist families.
Q: What if I don’t have Insurance or can’t Afford Therapy?
A: We are committed to making therapy accessible. We stay informed about grant and scholarship opportunities and offer a scholarship application for families in need. Visit our website for available family grant opportunities and fundraising ideas.
Q: Where are you Located?
A: We are located in northwest Wisconsin, near Rice Lake:
- 56 miles from Eau Claire, WI
- 100 miles from St. Paul, MN
- 233 miles from Madison, WI
Q: What is Nature’s Edge Like?
A: Nature’s Edge is a 65-acre ranch with nature trails, a trout stream, a duck pond, a garden, and forest land. Therapy takes place in Diane’s House, the director’s home, the barn, and outdoor spaces. The barn includes an indoor riding arena, stalls, and therapy tools for hippotherapy and animal-assisted therapy.
Q: Is Nature’s Edge a Therapeutic Riding Center?
A: No. Therapeutic riding centers focus on horseback riding as recreation, while hippotherapy is a medical therapy used to achieve specific treatment goals. Patients who complete therapy and wish to continue riding are referred to a therapeutic riding center.
Q: Do you have On-Site Lodging?
A: No. We do not offer on-site lodging, except for families participating in our intensive inpatient therapy program at Diane’s House. Rice Lake provides local accommodations.
Q: Can we Bring a Picnic Lunch to Nature’s Edge?
A: Yes, but please notify us in advance so we can maintain patient privacy and ensure animals do not interfere with your meal.
Q: How do I Begin Therapy at Nature’s Edge?
A: Follow these steps:
- Download and complete the New Patient Intake Forms.
- Obtain a physician’s prescription.
- Gather relevant reports (IEP, therapy history, etc.).
- Send us the paperwork via mail, email, or fax.
- Check with your insurance company for coverage or apply for a scholarship.
Q: How do we Schedule the First Appointment?
A: After reviewing paperwork, we will contact you within two weeks to schedule evaluations. Each evaluation lasts about two hours. Bring a daily schedule and a list of patient preferences.
Q: What Should my Child Wear to Therapy?
A: Comfortable clothing suitable for therapy activities, including working with horses, gardening, and animals. Supportive shoes or rubber boots are recommended for barn sessions. Weather-appropriate clothing is encouraged.
Q: Is there a Waiting Room?
A: No. A parent or caregiver must be present at all times. We encourage caregiver participation to reinforce therapy techniques at home.
Q: Can my Whole Family Watch Therapy Sessions?
A: Yes, but young siblings must be supervised to avoid distractions.
Q: Can we Bring our Pet?
A: No. For insurance and safety reasons, personal pets are not allowed on the property.
Q: Can we Feed or Pet the Therapy Animals?
A: Feeding is not permitted, as our animals follow strict wellness diets. Patients may offer designated treats under therapist supervision. Visitors may interact with therapy animals after staff guidance.
Q: Are there Public Restrooms?
A: A portable toilet is available near the barn, and additional restrooms are in Diane’s House and the director’s home for indoor sessions.
Q: Where Should I Park?
A: Parking is available at the barn, house (main office), or Diane’s House, depending on session location. For first-time visits, park at the house.
Q: How can I Donate?
A: Nature’s Edge relies on donations and grants to continue its mission. We welcome monetary contributions, supplies, and equipment donations. Click here for donation information.
Q: How can I Volunteer?
A: Volunteers assist in various roles, from animal care to office tasks. Click here to get started.
Q: Can I Visit or Volunteer Anytime?
A: No, all visits and volunteer times must be scheduled in advance. Please call (715) 859-6670 to make an appointment. For privacy and security, walk-ins are not permitted.
Q: What are Some Recommended Therapy Resources?
A: Online Resources:
- American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
- American Occupational Therapy Association
- American Physical Therapy Association
- American Hippotherapy Association
- Pet Partners
- PATH International
For additional inquiries, contact our office at (715) 859-6670 or email us. We look forward to assisting you!