About Susan
Innovations Director, Inspire Therapy Solutions
Although I was a quirky “sensitive” child, I did not know my challenges stemmed from sensory processing deficits and unintegrated primitive reflexes until I started working with children.
Part of the reason I know these techniques work is because I have tried them all. I think it is important to know what you are asking of a child and the best way is to use the techniques. Doing so has given me insight and changed my life and my skills. I understand being consistent and making changes can be challenging but it is worth it.
I know every person has the capacity for change and growth, no matter where or when we start.
My passion for the process is anchored in my personal experience and the success of children we have worked with.
Professionally I use my clinical skills to treat, research, collect data, tweak techniques, and introduce them to an honest and unbiased audience-children- who are not shy about giving feedback!
What I love most about my work is spending time with a child, getting to know that unique individual and leaning as much as I teach. Children have taught me better ways to use the tools and techniques, to be flexible in my approach, look on the bright side and have fun.
The most powerful lesson I have taken to heart is that when you believe, and act as if, a child is doing the best he/she can in that moment, amazing changes happen.
What I’ve learnt can help your child
Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP)
Using sensory and cognitive strategies for self-regulation, to change limiting beliefs and negative thoughts, relieve anxiety, phobias and the effects of trauma.
Rhythmic Movement Training (RMT)
Reflex integration for ADD/ADHD, for emotions, memory and behavior, and for reading and writing.
Mindfulness-based meditation
Techniques that quiet and relax the mind while increasing activity in the pre-frontal cortex, the area of the brain that regulates executive functioning (impulse control, planning, critical thinking).
Maximizing brain potential in the classroom
Using primitive reflex integration patterning to support academic function. For instance, working on integrating hand reflexes before handwriting practice.
MNRI® (Masgutova Neurosensorimotor Reflex Integration)
Postural and dynamic reflex integration and reflex integration for self-regulation and emotional resilience, with MNRI®.
Belgau multi-sensory learning breakthrough program
Using multi-sensory tools and techniques to entrain systems; for instance balance, hearing and vision working together in a coordinated, efficient way to improve reading, writing and other skills.
Ortho-Bionomy®
Using proprioceptive sensory input at the joints and other specific areas to provide organizing/calming input that allows the brain/body to correctly re-align the joints and structures of the body.
Neuroplasticity for children
Sensory and motor techniques that change the brain, building motor, cognitive and emotional skills.
Kinesiology taping and cranial sacral therapy
Kinesio tape provides support and lifts/relaxes the fascia, increasing blood flow and oxygenation of the area.
Advanced therapeutic listening
Using specific modulated music, selected for your child’s specific needs, to regulate the sensory system, decrease sound sensitivity and improve sound discrimination and listening skills.
Building blocks for sensory integration
Understanding the link between sensory processing, primitive reflexes and motor coordination. Using research-based strategies to improve performance.
Practical sense in sensory integration
Understanding how sensory processing shapes and changes the brain and using sensory strategies to increase functional behaviors while decreasing nonfunctional behaviors (basic and advanced).
Pediatric myofascial release
Therapeutic handling techniques to release fascia that may be holding a child in incorrect patterns. Especially useful to help a child with retained primitive reflexes to integrate the patterns more quickly.
Pediatric yoga therapy
Specific yoga series created by a yoga teacher and mother of a child with special needs. Postures and movements that are simple and effective and can be modified to meet the needs of any child.
As Program Coordinator for Keiser University’s Occupational Therapy Assistant Program from 2009 to 2011, I instructed assistants in pediatric practice, human development, therapeutic media, and group dynamics.
In my free time…
…I like to read, draw, paint and try new crafts. I write silly children’s poetry and enjoy telling stories mostly about the antics of my beloved pets Hank, Teddy, and Snowflake aka the 3 Furmigos. I practice yoga and meditation; I am often seen in my neighborhood walking my dog Hank or riding my bicycle.
You can read my CV/resume if you would like more information about my qualifications and career path.
