Reflex Integration Therapy
Supporting the Nervous System for Feeding, Movement, and Regulation
Primitive reflexes are automatic movement patterns we’re all born with. They play a critical role in early development—helping babies feed, move, and survive. As the nervous system matures, these reflexes are meant to integrate so higher-level skills like coordination, posture, attention, and self-regulation can develop.
When reflexes don’t fully integrate, the body may continue to rely on immature movement patterns. This can show up in subtle (and not-so-subtle) ways—especially during feeding, growth, and learning.
At The Abeille Feeding Clinic, Reflex Integration Therapy is used as part of our whole-body, nervous-system-informed approach to support infants, children, and families.
What Is Reflex Integration Therapy?
Reflex Integration Therapy uses gentle, purposeful movements and activities to help the nervous system mature and organize. Rather than “training” skills, this therapy supports the body in developing the foundation those skills depend on.
Our therapists assess how retained or under-integrated reflexes may be impacting:
Therapy is individualized, developmentally appropriate, and designed to work with the nervous system—not against it.
Our therapists assess how retained or under-integrated reflexes may be impacting:
- Feeding and swallowing
- Oral motor skills
- Posture and breathing
- Sensory processing
- Motor coordination
- Emotional regulation and stamina
Therapy is individualized, developmentally appropriate, and designed to work with the nervous system—not against it.
Signs Reflex Integration Therapy May Be Helpful
Reflex integration challenges don’t look the same for every child. You may consider an evaluation if your child experiences:
In Infants & Toddlers
In Older Children
Many families are surprised to learn that feeding, movement, breathing, and behavior are all deeply connected through the nervous system.
In Infants & Toddlers
- Difficulty latching, sucking, or coordinating feeding
- Reflux-like symptoms without a clear cause
- Tension, stiffness, or asymmetrical movement
- Poor head or trunk control
- Difficulty calming or settling
- Aversion to tummy time or movement
In Older Children
- Ongoing picky eating or feeding challenges
- Mouth breathing, open mouth posture, or poor oral control
- Delayed or awkward motor skills
- Poor posture or fatigue with sitting or writing
- Sensory sensitivities
- Difficulty with attention, regulation, or transitions
Many families are surprised to learn that feeding, movement, breathing, and behavior are all deeply connected through the nervous system.
How Reflex Integration Fits Into Feeding Therapy
Feeding is one of the most complex tasks the human body performs—it requires coordination between the brain, cranial nerves, muscles, reflexes, and breath.
When primitive reflexes remain active, feeding challenges may persist despite trying “all the right things.”
Reflex Integration Therapy can support:
This approach is especially powerful when combined with Lactation Support, Feeding Therapy, Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy, Craniosacral Therapy (CST), and Craniosacral Fascial Therapy (CFT).
When primitive reflexes remain active, feeding challenges may persist despite trying “all the right things.”
Reflex Integration Therapy can support:
- More efficient sucking and swallowing
- Improved oral coordination and endurance
- Better postural stability during meals
- Reduced gagging, choking, or fatigue
- Increased comfort and confidence with feeding
This approach is especially powerful when combined with Lactation Support, Feeding Therapy, Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy, Craniosacral Therapy (CST), and Craniosacral Fascial Therapy (CFT).
Our Whole-Body Approach
At The Abeille Feeding Clinic, Reflex Integration Therapy is never one-size-fits-all.
Your child’s care may include:
Reflex assessment and movement-based therapy
Feeding and oral motor support
Bodywork to address tension and restriction
Parent education and simple home activities
Collaboration across disciplines as needed
Our goal is not just skill acquisition—but lasting, functional change that supports your child’s growth and development.
Your child’s care may include:
Reflex assessment and movement-based therapy
Feeding and oral motor support
Bodywork to address tension and restriction
Parent education and simple home activities
Collaboration across disciplines as needed
Our goal is not just skill acquisition—but lasting, functional change that supports your child’s growth and development.
Still Have Questions?
What to Expect During Therapy
- A comprehensive intake and reflex screening
- Gentle, child-led sessions that respect regulation and readiness
- Clear explanations so you understand the “why” behind recommendations
- Practical strategies you can use at home without overwhelm
- Parents often tell us they notice improvements not only in feeding—but also in comfort, movement, sleep, and regulation.
Is Reflex Integration Therapy Right for My Child?
If you’ve been told your child will “grow out of it,” or you feel something deeper is being missed—you’re not alone.
Reflex Integration Therapy can be a valuable piece of the puzzle when progress feels stalled or challenges don’t have a clear explanation.
We’re here to help you understand what’s going on beneath the surface.
Ready to Get Started?
Schedule a Reflex Integration evaluation or reach out to learn how this service may support your child’s feeding and development.