FAQs

About High Hopes

We combine clinical excellence, holistic care, and emotional support in a nurturing environment that feels like a second home to families.

 

Our team includes Dubai Health Authority (DHA) – and Community Development Authority (CDA)-licensed professionals/therapists from across the world, specializing in pediatric therapy disciplines including Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech and Language Therapy, Behavioral Therapy (BCBA), and more.

 

Our team includes Dubai Health Authority (DHA) – and Community Development Authority (CDA)-licensed professionals/therapists from across the world, specializing in pediatric therapy disciplines including Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech and Language Therapy, Behavioral Therapy (BCBA), and more.

At High Hopes, we bring together a team of globally trained therapists under one roof in a purpose-built, child-friendly facility. What sets us apart is our interdisciplinary approach, where specialists collaborate closely to provide holistic, child-centered care. We work hand-in-hand with families to design individualized intervention plans with clear, measurable goals tailored to each child’s strengths and needs. Our process includes regular progress reviews, open communication, and ongoing adjustments to ensure meaningful outcomes and long-term development.

 

We cater to children aged 0 to 14 years with diverse needs, including autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, neurodevelopmental and neuromuscular conditions (such as cerebral palsy and dystonia), genetic disorders (such as Down syndrome and Fragile X), sensory processing difficulties, feeding and swallowing challenges, intellectual and learning disabilities, speech and language delays, behavioral regulation issues, and delayed developmental milestones. Our interdisciplinary team provides individualized care to support each child’s unique journey.

 

High Hopes is a state-of-the-art pediatric therapy center in Dubai, dedicated to children with moderate to complex special needs. Inspired by Alia (Loulou), a young girl diagnosed with CDKL5 deficiency disorder, the center was created to provide access to exceptional care that previously didn’t exist in the region. We offer specialized pediatric therapies, including Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech and Language Therapy, and Behavioral Therapy (BCBA), along with other tailored interventions. Our globally trained team works collaboratively to design individualized, goal-oriented plans with strong family involvement. Licensed by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) and Community Development Authority (CDA), High Hopes offers a safe, welcoming environment that feels like a second home.

Facility and Equipment

Our facilities include two large inclusive playgrounds that are fully accessible for wheelchairs, a hydrotherapy pool, a soft playroom equipped with therapeutic swings, a calming sensory experience room, specialized seating systems, and dedicated therapy spaces for Occupational, Physical, and Speech and Language Therapy. We also house advanced tools like the TREXO Robotic Gait Trainer, Galileo machine, spider cage, and many more.

High Hopes operates out of two fully accessible, purpose-built villas in Jumeirah, Dubai. Each space is thoughtfully designed to support children with special needs in a safe, enriching, and family-friendly environment. Our facilities include state-of-the-art therapy rooms, a sensory room, a soft playroom, and fully equipped gyms featuring advanced equipment such as a spider cage, treadmill, and more. We also offer custom-designed inclusive playgrounds and a therapy pool with adaptive equipment, allowing children of all abilities to play, explore, and develop in a supportive outdoor setting.

 

The Process

Absolutely. We encourage families to visit and explore our facility to get a better understanding of our environment and services. You can book a tour by clicking [this link] or by contacting us directly.

Yes. We conduct specific disciplinary assessments to identify developmental needs and set therapy goals.

Getting started at High Hopes is easy. The process begins with a parent consultation and completion of a detailed intake form. Our clinical team then conducts thorough assessments to develop a personalized therapy plan tailored to your child’s needs. Timelines for onboarding, assessments, and plan development are clearly communicated from the outset. Simply give us a call or send us an email—our team will respond within 24 hours to guide you through the next steps.

Insurance and Fees

Yes, our administrative team is happy to guide you on how to liaise with your insurance provider.

We accept bank transfers, cards, and cash. Sessions must be paid in advance unless otherwise arranged.

We are not directly affiliated with insurance providers, but we provide all documentation needed for reimbursement claims. Our administrative team also supports families with completing claim forms and guides them through the reimbursement process.

Scheduling and Attendance

Yes. Depending on the therapy type and your child’s needs, virtual and home-based sessions may be arranged.

We require a minimum of 24 hours’ notice for cancellations to avoid charges. We kindly ask families to honor scheduled sessions and arrive on time, as punctuality is key to ensuring consistent therapeutic progress and smooth clinic operations.

We’re open Monday to Saturday, from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

 

Our Services

Physical Therapy

Sessions are play-based, engaging, and adapted to each child’s physical abilities. We use specialized pediatric equipment, gait trainers, and sensory-motor tools in a safe, supportive environment.

We work with children experiencing:

  • Cerebral palsy
  • Developmental delays
  • Genetic or chromosomal disorders
  • Muscular dystrophy
  • Neuromuscular disorders
  • Orthopedic issues
  • Post-surgical rehabilitation
  • And more

Pediatric physical therapy helps children develop and improve their gross motor skills, such as crawling, walking, jumping, balance, posture, and coordination. Our physical therapists also assist children with mobility challenges by incorporating therapeutic exercises, play-based movement, and the use of adaptive equipment. All sessions follow global, evidence-based standards and are delivered with optimal therapist-to-child ratios to ensure individualized attention.

Occupational Therapy

Yes. We prepare children for classroom environments by working on sitting tolerance, attention span, peer interaction, and pre-academic tasks.

We follow a sensory-integrative approach and tailor each session to the child’s needs using real-life scenarios and therapeutic play. Our therapists collaborate closely with families and schools to ensure consistency in strategies across therapy, home, and academic settings.

  • Sensory processing difficulties (hypersensitivity, sensory-seeking behaviors)
  • Poor hand-eye coordination
  • Delayed motor milestones
  • Attention and focus difficulties
  • Difficulties with handwriting and tool use (scissors, pencils)
  • Independence in daily living tasks

Occupational therapy empowers children to participate in everyday activities through the development of fine motor skills, visual-motor integration, sensory regulation, and self-care abilities such as feeding, dressing, and hygiene.

Speech And Language Therapy

Feeding therapy addresses oral-motor difficulties, food aversions, and safe swallowing practices. Our therapists work on chewing, sensory tolerances, and mealtime routines to promote independent and safe feeding.

Yes. Therapy is available in English, Arabic, and other languages, depending on therapist availability and the child’s needs.

Our therapists are trained in using AAC tools such as PECS, communication boards, and speech-generating devices to help non-verbal or minimally verbal children communicate effectively. Parents and caregivers are also coached in AAC techniques and feeding strategies to ensure continued success at home.

Speech and language therapy supports development in:

  • Receptive and expressive language
  • Speech clarity and articulation
  • Fluency (e.g., stuttering)
  • Social communication
  • Feeding and swallowing
  • Use of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices

Behavioral Therapy and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

Yes. While most ABA sessions are one-on-one, we also run social groups where children can practice communication, sharing, turn-taking, and emotional regulation.

ABA is data-driven. Therapists record and analyze behavior changes over time to continually update goals and strategies for optimal development. All ABA programs are overseen by Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) and regularly reviewed during interdisciplinary team meetings.

Sessions are structured but engaging, with a focus on reinforcing positive behaviors through evidence-based techniques. Goals may include:

  • Language and communication
  • Functional living skills
  • Academic readiness
  • Reducing challenging behaviors
  • Social and play skills

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a scientifically proven method for improving socially significant behaviors, especially in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Hydrotherapy

  • Enhances flexibility and strength
  • Improves coordination and balance
  • Supports emotional regulation and relaxation
  • Reduces spasticity and joint pain
  • Improves cardiovascular endurance in a low-impact way

Our pediatric-friendly, temperature-controlled hydrotherapy pool includes support systems, ramps, and sensory-friendly lighting to ensure a calm, secure environment. The pool meets DHA hygiene and safety standards, and therapy sessions are customized to each child’s goals.

Hydrotherapy involves therapeutic movement in warm water, ideal for children with motor impairments, sensory integration challenges, or muscle tone issues. The water’s buoyancy reduces pressure on joints and allows more freedom of movement.

Interdisciplinary and Support Services

  • Interdisciplinary Assessments: Comprehensive evaluations by multiple specialists
  • Intensive Therapy Programs: Short-term, high-frequency options for visiting families or urgent needs
  • Parent Coaching & Education: Training and support to reinforce therapy at home
  • AAC & Assistive Technology Services: Assessment and training in communication and mobility tools
  • School Collaboration: Reports and strategic input to support school integration

Family Involvement

Depending on the child’s therapy goals, we often encourage the involvement of siblings or caregivers for better generalization of skills and outcomes.

Yes. We provide workshops, family events, and ongoing support. Our mobile app also allows families to track progress, access reports, and communicate with the team.

Parents are essential partners in every child’s journey. They receive regular updates and training to support therapy goals at home. Feedback is also shared through our secure family app, where parents can view reports, schedules, and progress notes.

Events at High Hopes

Absolutely. All our events are designed to be inclusive, fun, and developmentally supportive for children of all abilities.

Many events are open to the public or to families enrolled at High Hopes. Follow our social media for updates and invitations.

Yes! We host workshops, awareness campaigns, and inclusive celebrations that build community and support networks for families.

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