In Panama, therapeutic support is becoming a cornerstone for the comprehensive development of students with disabilities, strengthening their physical, emotional, social, and cognitive skills. This operational deployment is supported by over 1,200 special education teachers and 412 technical team professionals. The positive impact of therapeutic support is reflected in cases like that of Amalia Fernández, a five-year-old student at the National School for the Blind. 'Her progress has been spectacular, very positive for her,' expressed her mother, highlighting the complete care and additional support the child needed for her academic and personal development. This way, the integration of pedagogical and therapeutic strategies reaffirms the institution's commitment to building a more inclusive society. This professional team provides comprehensive support that extends to families, who are considered essential pieces in the evolutionary process of children and young people. Currently, IPHE guarantees access to these specialized services through an extensive infrastructure that includes 21 headquarters and a presence in 458 community schools. This interdisciplinary approach seeks not only the autonomy of students in the educational environment but also their active participation in community life, recognizing the individual potential of each student. Psychologist Cynthia González from the Helen Keller National School for the Blind of the Panamanian Institute for Special Rehabilitation (IPHE) highlighted that this process is the result of coordinated work between teachers, physical and occupational therapists, speech therapists, psychologists, social workers, and early stimulation specialists. By articulating these services, IPHE not only fosters the growth of students but also provides the necessary tools for each person served to reach their maximum potential under a scheme of specialized and humane care. Amalia's mother, Sadith Serrano Pineda, recounted that her daughter receives services in speech therapy, psychology, occupational therapy, visual and physical therapy, which has generated spectacular advances in her behavior, concentration, and ability to follow instructions. According to Serrano Pineda, the support received since her daughter's entry into the institution has been decisive for her progress. 'Her behavior has changed completely from the beginning to how she is now,' she stated. The institution reaches a coverage of 73 districts and 221 townships, providing attention to a total of 18,379 students throughout the national territory.
