The Joyful Connections Approach
Therapy that starts with your child
Every child has things they love and ways they naturally learn. I build sessions around those - the toys, the games, the topics your child already lights up about- so therapy feels like play instead of work. My goal isn't to change who your child is. It's to help them do the things they want and need to do, in a way that feels safe and good to them.
You're part of every session
You know your child better than anyone, and you're with them for all the hours I'm not. So I don't just work with your child- I work with you. You'll get simple, specific strategies for the moments that are hardest right now: getting dressed, sitting down to eat, leaving the house, winding down at bedtime. Small changes to a routine or a space often make a bigger difference than anything that happens in a therapy room.
Skills that show up in daily life
We'll work toward the things that everyday routines easier -using their hands, managing big feelings, handling busy or noisy places, taking care of themselves, and playing and connecting with the people around them. Progress means your child participating more fully in their own day, and needing less help over time to do the things they want to do.
Grounded in research, and in real life
My approach draws on current occupational therapy research, and on my own experience as a parent. I go at your child's pace and build trust before anything else. Your family's culture, values, and routines shape the plan, because every treatment strategy should align with your family's goals and fit into your daily activities.
"Kerri takes the time to build positive relationships and rapport with the children she works with and their families. She individualizes to the child’s needs and the family’s needs as well. Not only does she help on the ground by modeling and guidance with the child; but she is sure to help the adult working with the child to understand how to carry out the strategies in order to ensure long lasting effects. It has been an incredible opportunity to have worked with her."
D. A., parent and school teacher
"Kerri found new ways to engage our son. She broke through barriers and helped to bring out the kid we always knew was there... He was living in a world of black and white, not even knowing how colorful life could be until she showed him. "
- A.P. (Mother of an autistic child)