What does CLVT mean in THERAPY

A Certified Low Vision Therapist is an individual who has received specialized training and expertise to provide care and support to those with low vision. Certified Low Vision Therapists are trained to assess and diagnose individuals with low vision, develop appropriate treatment plans, evaluate the effectiveness of interventions, recommend adaptive strategies for improved functioning and make referrals to other services as needed.

A Certified Low Vision Therapist can provide support in many different ways, including patient education and awareness surrounding low vision; assistance in acquiring adaptive devices such as magnifiers or other optical aids; counseling on use of assistive technology; advice on environmental modifications; instruction in non-optical strategies for enhancing functional abilities; training in compensatory techniques; and providing support throughout the process as needed.

You may be able to locate Certified Low Vision therapists through private practices or by looking up referrals on professional organizations such as the American Academy of Optometry or the American Occupational Therapy Association. Additionally, you may inquire at your local optometrist’s office or ophthalmologist’s office to see if they have board-certified members on staff who can provide this type of service.

Anyone with a diagnosis of low vision may be eligible for services provided by a Certified Low Vision Therapist, including children, adults, and seniors. Furthermore, CLVT can also provide supports even if there isn’t an official diagnosis since some people have functional limitations that require additional intervention even without formal diagnosis.

A CLVT can provide services for any age group depending on their individual needs – from preschoolers through older adults. However it is important that interventions focus on developing skills rather than relying solely upon visual aids. CLVTs are not limited to helping with visual issues only but can help address related physical discomforts associated with everyday activities (e.g., neck strain when reading).

The goal of low vision therapy is to enable individuals diagnosed with low vision conditions to access information more effectively and safely while preserving as much independence as possible. The effects of the therapies vary depending upon each individual's diagnosis and the complexity of the condition being treated, however common therapies include optimizing existing useful vision with optical devices such as glasses or magnifiers or offering alternative forms of input such as tactile maps or verbal instruction when visual information cannot be accessed effectively due to impairment.

Generally no - most CLVT interventions are minimally invasive and have few risks associated with them other than minor physical discomfort during activities (such as eye strain). It is always important that you discuss any potential concerns prior to beginning any sessions so that you feel comfortable proceeding.

Yes - reimbursement from health insurance providers varies depending upon your particular plan however some insurers may cover some costs related to CLVT services if they are deemed medically necessary based upon your doctor's recommendation/prescription. Additionally, some clinicians will accept sliding scale fees or alternative payment arrangements depending upon circumstances so it's important to check ahead just in case finances might be an issue for you before pursuing any services.

While many CLVTs choose to specialize in particular diagnoses due their familiarity within these areas (for example someone who focuses primarily on providing sessions for patients living with macular degeneration), most certified professionals are well versed enough within all facets of visual rehabilitation that they're able to compassionately address most impairments regardless of medical etiology/diagnosis.