Intensive Therapy
Cerebral Palsy ~ HIE ~ Anoxic Brain Injury ~ Pediatric Stroke ~ Genetic Disorders ~ Apraxia/Dyspraxia ~ Dysphagia ~ Autism ~ Developmental Delays ~ Sensory Processing Disorders
MNRI® Intensives for Feeding/Swallowing Skills
As an SLP, I focus on pediatric dysphagia, emphasizing swallow phases and muscle coordination for safe eating. Many feeding therapists lack the necessary specialized training. At Unity Therapy Solutions, I’ve created a holistic approach that includes both physical and psychological factors. I assess reflexes, cranial nerves, food modifications, and past trauma linked to feeding. Instead of concentrating on the narrow aspects, considering the entire picture reveals how interconnected brain and body functions are essential for progress.
MNRI® Intensives for Communication Skills
The MNRI® Method, rooted in science, recognizes two ways of perception: conscious control and automatic reactions. Under stress, people rely on automatic responses. Traditional therapies often concentrate on skills from the conscious brain. However, without integrated reflexes, learning becomes difficult due to control by the brainstem or midbrain. MNRI® addresses issues at the root, promoting natural recovery and enhancing learning with fewer repetitions. In MNRI® intensives focused on communication skills, the emphasis is on reflex integration while modeling and encouraging communication.
Connecting reflexes with developmental skills
How does the nervous system affect our ability to produce speech? Learning skills relies on a well-functioning nervous system. The way we learn and re-learn skills depends on a balanced flow of information to the brain. If any part of our senses is overwhelmed or not getting enough input, we struggle to absorb new information. This applies to learning at home, school, or work. Decoding sounds and knowing how to produce specific sounds in our language are essential skills we learn in childhood and may need to be re-learned after a neurological event.
Speech
MNRI® focuses strongly on cranial nerve function and the oral/facial reflexes that support sucking, swallowing, chewing, biting, etc., but there are also dynamic and postural reflexes in the core and limbs that must be addressed. Eating is a whole body process that requires regulation, grading of muscle movements, and use of all sensory systems. When we work on the reflexes that support those processes, enjoyment and pleasure can occur during our experiences with food.
Feeding/Swallowing
Understanding language, using language, knowing how to shift our language based on where we are, and other language tasks are considered higher level, cortical skills. Once this skill is learned, we get many repetitions by performing it many times a day. Aside from being a skill that is learned, our language is shaped by what we are able to see and interact with in our environment. For children with limited mobility, their “world” is expanded when reflexes become integrated and exploring different objects and places directly improves their receptive vocabulary.
Language
Cognition & Executive Functioning
Reflexes are coded patterns in our neurological system that integrate as we develop, aiding skills like cognition. Unintegrated reflexes hinder our system's efficiency, leading to compensations that impede growth. Cognitive and executive skills, such as planning, time management, working memory, mental flexibility, impulse control, emotional regulation, task initiation, and goal-directed persistence, are essential for daily functioning.
Accepting New Patients for Office or Home Appointments
Located where Cypress and Willowbrook meet, the Unity Therapy Solutions office is upstairs next door to Therahappy, owned by Franchesca Cox. We offer a comfortable environment for families and children where parents can grab a coffee or tea, check emails, and work remotely. If you require assistance with carrying your child to our offices upstairs, please reach out to us when you arrive and we are happy to help.
If your child has complex medical needs that make traveling difficult, an at home intensive might be an option for your child. If your home is located within 30 miles of the office and schedule availability permits, we can discuss having therapy in the comfort of your home. In home appointments are prioritized for children who would require a nurse or extra parent for transportation to the office.