Methods
Our programs are designed to fit the individual, not the label. Utilizing principles and ideas from a variety of models, we design a program to fit your family and child. We collaborate with family members, professionals, and the community to create a program that is all-inclusive. All aspects of development, behavior, and sensory issues are assessed to determine where your child needs the most support. We pull from relationally and behaviorally-based models to create programs that uniquely target your family’s goals and challenges you are facing. Whole Child provides support and consultation for the entire family. We recognize the importance of each family as a distinct system filled with opportunities for growth and learning. Utilizing the strengths of your family and your child, we design a program that is uniquely yours.
We connect with your child to find out what motivates them and makes them laugh. We encourage families to make deeper connections with their children and provide support to both siblings and parents. We employ techniques derived from relational models such as FloorTime and RDI to improve communication and play and to build on your child’s natural interests. Using a discerning eye, we utilize the best principles from behavioral models such as discrete trial teaching methods, and pivotal response training, to create opportunities to directly teach new skills, and reduce anxiety, challenging behaviors and distress. Through careful analysis of behaviors in the context of environment and motivation, we try to understand the meaning behind the behaviors. Often a child’s behavior that causes adults distress is also communicating the distress the child is experiencing. We do not believe in punishing distress. We seek to locate the source of the distress and alleviate it. We work with you to create a home in which all members thrive.
