Emily Dannen – Pediatric Physical Therapist in Belchertown, MA
Helping Kids Thrive with Physical Therapy
Hi, I’m Emily Dannen
I’m a Doctor of Physical Therapy and Springfield College graduate with 10 years of experience helping children and young adults build strength, confidence, and independence. I provide individualized, play-based therapy tailored to each child’s unique needs, with the goal of helping them participate more fully in the activities that matter most to them.
Why I love what I do:
I love building meaningful relationships with children and their families, using each child’s strengths and interests to create fun, neurodiversity-affirming therapy that builds confidence, independence, and meaningful participation.
Why I’m passionate about in-home care:
I love in-home therapy because it allows me to support children in the environment where they feel most comfortable while partnering with caregivers to build meaningful skills that carry over into everyday routines.
What does a Physical Therapist do?
Developmental physical therapists support children in building movement and motor skills—so they can grow, explore, and move with confidence. If your child struggles with things like walking, climbing stairs, balance, or coordinating movements, a pediatric PT can help.
Pediatric PTs focus on:
- Gross motor skills – like crawling, walking, running, jumping, or riding a bike
- Balance and coordination – helping kids feel steady on their feet and move smoothly between activities
- Strength and endurance – building the muscle power kids need for play, sports, and daily activities
- Movement patterns – teaching proper ways to move that prevent injury and support healthy development
- Mobility and independence – helping kids navigate stairs, playgrounds, and their environment safely
Pediatric developmental physical therapy supports kids at home, at school, and during play—so they can feel confident and capable in how they move through their world every day.
Learn more about Physical Therapy with Coral Care, or see where we provide care in Massachusetts.
My Specialties
I specialize in:
How my practice is special
Child-Led, Play-Based Therapy
I incorporate each child’s interests and motivations into therapy, creating engaging, meaningful sessions that encourage participation and make learning enjoyable.
Whole-Child, Collaborative Care
My experience working alongside occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, and behavior analysts has shaped a well-rounded approach that considers communication, sensory needs, self-regulation, and overall participation.
Family Partnership & Practical Support
I believe parents and caregivers are the experts on their children. I listen to family priorities, advocate for their needs, and develop practical strategies that help children succeed in their everyday routines and environments.
Areas I Serve
I work with families in Belchertown, and these surrounding areas: Granby, South Hadley, Ware, Palmer, Amherst, and Ludlow.
Granby
South Hadley
Ware
Palmer
Amherst
Ludlow
Local Places I love!
Antonio’s Pizza
Johnny’s Bar & Grille
Three Amigos
Frequently asked questions
Does Emily Dannen accept insurance?
Yes. Emily Dannen sees families through Coral Care, which is in-network with major commercial insurance plans in Massachusetts. We check your benefits before the first session, so you know your cost up front.
How quickly can my child start with Emily Dannen?
Most families start within 1 to 2 weeks of signing up, depending on Emily Dannen's schedule. Book a 10-minute consultation to check availability.
Where do sessions with Emily Dannen happen?
Emily Dannen comes to you, in Belchertown, MA and nearby towns like Granby and South Hadley. Sessions are in person, about 45 minutes, usually once a week.
Do I need a referral or diagnosis to start?
No. You can book directly. Some insurance plans need a pediatrician referral, and we'll tell you if yours does when we check your benefits.
Unsure about what your child needs?
Book a quick 10 minute consultation with me! Serving families in Belchertown near Quabbin Reservoir. Easily accessible from Route 9.
Who is Coral Care?
Coral Care supports families with exceptional in-home pediatric therapists in speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy.
Every provider in our network is thoroughly vetted through a clinical review process and receives ongoing support through monthly education, community, and access to specialized resources.
We believe the best care happens when disciplines work together. That’s why we actively support cross-specialty collaboration—ensuring kids get care that’s not just high-quality, but truly holistic.
Need more care for a child—or know a family who does?
