The Joyful Connections Approach
Neurodiversity-Affirming Treatment:
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Interventions are strengths-based, playful, culturally sensitive, and supportive of family and social relationships.
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Focus is on helping the child to communicate, participate, and feel safe in their environment.
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Sessions incorporate the child's interests and provide natural ways of learning
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Long-term goals include improving overall function and increasing independence in daily activities.
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Appreciative of each individual's differences and preferences.
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Emphasis on social justice, advocacy, and well-being.
Evidence-Based Practice:
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OT interventions that are based on the most current research from credible sources.
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Parent coaching based on clinical expertise and experience as a mother of neurodivergent children.
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Using environmental supports and adaptations to maximize progress and participation across various settings.
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Using a trauma-informed approach when developing therapeutic relationships with the child and family
The Process
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Comprehensive occupational therapy evaluation:
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Parent interview (background information, areas of strength, concerns)
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Records review (previous evaluations, interventions, work samples)
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Standardized assessment (age-appropriate, administered with the child)
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Parent questionnaire(s) may be utilized as part of the standardized assessment
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Skilled clinical observations of sensory integration and neuromuscular status
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Clinical observations of social overtures and sensory processing during playful activities
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Input from teachers, administrators, and/or care providers may be gathered through questionnaire(s)
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Written report (synthesis of data collected, recommendations, suggested goal areas, plan of action)
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Parent meeting in person or virtually to review the report & recommendations.
2. Treatment sessions:
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Service delivery frequency & duration is determined according to the evaluation results
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Clinic sessions are typically 30-60 minutes once or twice per week
"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.