Pediatric Patient & Family Counseling Resources
When a child requires an orthotic or prosthetic device, the journey goes beyond physical adjustments. Families often face emotional, social, and psychological challenges, including self-esteem issues, adapting to school environments, and building resilience in everyday life. Pediatric counseling provides tools to help children process these changes while giving parents and caregivers strategies to support their child confidently.
At Comprehensive Prosthetics & Orthotics (CPO USA), we believe in treating the whole patient. That means offering custom prosthetic and orthotic solutions while connecting families to counseling resources and support groups. We aim to ensure that children and their caregivers never feel alone as they navigate their journey.
Counseling and Support Through Comprehensive Prosthetics & Orthotics
CPO clinics help families access counseling services that address the unique emotional needs of children living with limb differences or mobility challenges. Our team can connect you with licensed therapists, peer mentors, and family support groups that encourage open communication and help children thrive in school, at home, and in social settings. By pairing professional counseling with community support, families gain practical strategies and encouragement from those who understand their experiences.
Local Counseling & Support Resources
Families navigating prosthetic and orthotic care often find strength and guidance through community support. In addition to clinical treatment, peer networks and counseling services play a vital role in helping children and families adjust, build confidence, and thrive. Below are trusted national and state-based resources available to CPO USA patients and their families.
National Resources
Amputee Coalition:
The Amputee Coalition offers nationwide peer support, youth programs, caregiver resources, and advocacy efforts. Their Support Group Locator helps families connect with groups both virtually and in person, ensuring no one faces the journey alone.
AMPOWER® by Hanger Clinic:
AMPOWER is a peer-to-peer support program that connects people living with limb loss or limb difference with trained mentors who have successfully recovered and rehabilitated following amputation. Mentors provide emotional support, answer questions about daily living with a prosthesis, and share firsthand experiences. Families can request a peer visitor online and connect in person, by phone, or virtually.
Association of Children’s Prosthetic-Orthotic Clinics (ACPOC):
ACPOC is a national network dedicated to advancing care for children with prosthetic and orthotic needs. Families can access education, clinical expertise, and referrals to specialized pediatric providers nationwide.
Illinois
Division of Specialized Care for Children (DSCC):
DSCC partners with families statewide to help children with special healthcare needs connect to diagnostic testing, specialized care, insurance navigation, and educational support. Care Coordinators work closely with families to create individualized care plans and assist with financial resources.
Family Resource Center on Disabilities (FRCD):
Serving the Chicago metropolitan area and eight surrounding counties, FRCD provides training, advocacy, and resources to help parents of children with disabilities navigate special education services, IEPs, and rights under federal law.
Shriners Children’s:
The Shriners Children’s Pediatric Amputation Program offers multidisciplinary care teams, including surgeons, therapists, nurses, and social workers, focused on helping children with limb differences build confidence, stay active, and thrive.
Indiana
INSOURCE:
INSOURCE helps Indiana parents of children with disabilities navigate the special education process, connect with resources, and advocate for services. They provide outreach to families across the state, focusing on underserved and underrepresented communities.
Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital—Kids Program:
Based in Michigan, Mary Free Bed Kids serves many families in Indiana with comprehensive pediatric rehabilitation. Their inpatient and outpatient programs are designed to maximize each child’s potential while providing compassionate, family-centered care.
Jordan Thomas Foundation:
The Jordan Thomas Foundation ensures children have access to the prostheses they need to live active lives, covering costs often denied by insurance. They serve families nationwide, including Indiana patients.
Iowa
ChildServe:
ChildServe provides specialty pediatric healthcare, including rehabilitation, autism and behavioral health programs, and community-based services. Their team helps children with special healthcare needs achieve greater independence and quality of life.
University of Iowa Health Care—Amputation Services:
The University of Iowa Health Care program offers multidisciplinary support for children who have undergone amputations, including prosthetic fitting, counseling, rehabilitation, and long-term follow-up.
Missouri
Children’s Mercy–Limb Difference Clinic:
Children’s Mercy Kansas City provides comprehensive care for children with limb differences, from prosthetic fitting and rehabilitation to confidence-building resources. The clinic is affiliated with ACPOC, ensuring access to national expertise and collaboration.
Design With Us:
Design With Us empowers disabled youth in Missouri to explore STEM and design opportunities through workshops and mentorship, helping children turn lived experiences into innovation.
Helping Families Access Care
For families beginning this process, the first step is often contacting your nearest CPO clinic. Our team can provide direct referrals to therapists, connect you with peer mentors, and help advocate for school accommodations. Parents should also pay attention to emotional or behavioral changes in their child, such as frustration with devices, social withdrawal, or changes in confidence, as these may signal a need for additional support.
Our Commitment
At Comprehensive Prosthetics & Orthotics, our mission is to help every child move confidently through life, physically and emotionally. By connecting families to trusted counseling and support resources, we ensure that no one faces this journey alone.
Contact your nearest CPO USA location to learn more about counseling referrals and local support networks available in your area.
Contact Comprehensive Prosthetics & Orthotics for a Free Evaluation
At Comprehensive Prosthetics & Orthotics, our team is committed to improving your quality of life and alleviating pain. Take the first step in your journey towards returning to your new normal. We are here to help you every step of the way. Schedule a consultation with a specialist at your nearest CPO clinic.