No Longer A SECRET: Unique Common Sense Strategies for Children with Sensory or Motor Challenges

Dr. Miller has been investigating, analyzing, and explaining SPD to other scientists, professionals, and parents since she studied under sensory integration pioneer A. Jean Ayres, Ph.D., more than thirty years ago. Since then, studies by Dr. Miller and her colleagues have helped bring SPD widespread recognition, and her work with families has improved countless lives. Thanks specifically to Dr. Miller’s mobilization of the research community, SPD now appears in two diagnostic manuals: the ICDL’s Diagnostic Manual for Infancy and Early Childhood and The Diagnostic Classification: Zero to Three. Her application has led to consideration of SPD for inclusion in the 2013 revision of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-V). Dr. Miller has also developed seven nationally standardized tests for use worldwide to assess and diagnose SPD and other developmental disorders and delays.

Doreit S. Bialer, MA, OT R/L is a nationally recognized occupational therapist with over 20 years of experience working with SPD in children and adolescents. She is certified in Neurodevelopmental Therapy in Pediatrics and in the administration and interpretation of the Sensory Integration and Praxis tests. Ms. Bialer is an independent contractor in multiple public schools and has a large private practice and sensory integration clinic with a focus on pre-school and school-age children. She was the director of one of Long Island’s first sensory integration gyms, has been a consultant to school districts, and developed a Vestibular Rehabilitation Clinic in association with New York University Hospital. Ms. Bialer served as a National consultant to HealthSouth mentoring other health professionals to develop pediatric practices across the country.