Heart and Sole Therapy

Feeding therapy

aeiou pediatric feeding therapy

If your child is experiencing feeding challenges, Heart and Sole Therapy offers a compassionate, evidence-based approach to Pediatric Feeding Therapy in Billings. Utilizing the AEIOU framework—Acceptance, Exposure, Independence, Observation, and Understanding—our therapist, Kelcy Ellis, creates individualized plans that prioritize your child’s autonomy and family dynamics. Whether addressing picky eating, sensory aversions, oral-motor difficulties, or transitioning from tube feeding, we provide a holistic support to foster positive mealtime experiences. Our team works closely with families to ensure lasting success and improved quality of life.

If your child is experiencing feeding challenges, Heart and Sole Therapy offers a compassionate, evidence-based approach to Pediatric Feeding Therapy in Billings. Utilizing the AEIOU framework—Acceptance, Exposure, Independence, Observation, and Understanding—our therapist, Kelcy Ellis, creates individualized plans that prioritize your child’s autonomy and family dynamics.

Whether addressing picky eating, sensory aversions, oral-motor difficulties, or transitioning from tube feeding, we provide a holistic support to foster positive mealtime experiences. Our team works closely with families to ensure lasting success and improved quality of life.

fax referral to 855.702.2523

schedule an appointment

Common feeding challenges include:

family support and education

Pediatric therapy provides valuable guidance and education for parents and caregivers. Our therapists teach families how to support their child’s development at home, offering strategies to manage challenges and encourage progress.

A team collaboration with your child at the center fosters a more holistic approach to your child’s growth, creating a strong support system.

Our Mission

Our mission at Heart & Sole Therapy is to provide a safe space for women, men and children to feel heard and seen. We are devoted to enhancing each individual's quality of life and ensuring that your needs are being addressed.

PEDIATRIC ASSESSMENT

what does an assessment for a child look like?

Our number one goal is to make your child feel safe and to have fun!

assessment

Assessment. The therapist will evaluate your child’s abilities, needs, and goals by observing daily skills and conducting standardized assessments.

customized treatment plan

Customized Treatment Plan. A therapist will create an individualized therapy plan based on your child’s strengths, challenges, and desired outcomes.

therapeutic activities

Therapeutic Activities: Sessions often include play-based activities designed to be engaging while targeting specific skills. Therapy may involve exercises, sensory play, adaptive techniques, and caregiver education.

PEDIATRIC ASSESSMENT

what does an assessment for a child look like?

Our number one goal is to make your child feel safe and to have fun!

assessment

Assessment. The therapist will evaluate your child’s abilities, needs, and goals by observing daily skills and conducting standardized assessments.

customized treatment plan

Customized Treatment Plan. A therapist will create an individualized therapy plan based on your child’s strengths, challenges, and desired outcomes.

therapeutic activities

Therapeutic Activities: Sessions often include play-based activities designed to be engaging while targeting specific skills. Therapy may involve exercises, sensory play, adaptive techniques, and caregiver education.

early identification and intervention

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your questions

If these do not answer your question to your satisfactory or if you have any more questions please do not hesitate to call 406.702.2779

Feeding therapy may be needed if your child:

  • Refuses entire food groups
  • Struggles with chewing or swallowing
  • Gags or vomits frequently during meals
  • Has a history of poor weight gain or growth
  • Experiences extreme picky eating

An evaluation can help determine if therapy is appropriate, consult with your provider for a referral. Early intervention can make a big difference.

Signs include:

  • Frequent choking, gagging, or coughing during meals
  • Difficulty accepting age-appropriate foods or textures
  • Oral motor delays (e.g., trouble with chewing)
  • Mealtime tantrums or refusal to eat
  • Dependence on formula, bottles, or a very limited diet

An evaluation can help determine if therapy is appropriate, consult with your provider for a referral. Early intervention can make a big difference.

You’re not alone. Consistent mealtime battles can be emotionally draining. Feeding therapy can help by identifying the root cause (e.g., sensory, oral motor, or behavioral issues) and building strategies for calmer, more successful meals.

During your visit, your therapist will conduct an initial evaluation and create a customized therapy plan tailored to you or your child’s needs. Sessions are engaging, goal-oriented, and designed to support long-term growth in a positive environment.

Children with sensory processing differences may be overwhelmed by certain textures, smells, or even the sight of food. This can cause strong food aversions, limited diets, or anxiety around eating.

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