ABOUT:
There are many treatment approaches to use with children on the autism spectrum. One of the most important keys in treatment is the parent-child relationship. This can often be a difficult relationship to build, but Molly offered some suggestions for support during this session. She also addressed the important component of self-care and shared some techniques that are beneficial to help support parents and caregivers.
This event was held at Mercy Health St. Mary's Downtown (1st Floor) 245 Cherry St. building.
SPEAKER:
MOLLY BUIST, OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST, OWNER AND CLINICAL DIRECTOR AT THE CENTER FOR CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT
Molly has 25+ years of experience as an Occupational Therapist with the majority of that time spent in pediatrics. She is driven to provide each child/family a treatment program based on their developmental and relationship needs. The ability to work with parents and caregivers to empower them to build relationships with their child, come to their child’s individual developmental level and watch the change, is one of the enjoyable parts of her day. She has learned a lot about running a business, but working with the kids is truly her biggest passion.
The Center was founded in 2004 and continues to grow. Molly whole-heartedly believes in the multidisciplinary team treatment for children. She is blessed to have a wonderful staff that loves what they do. Molly jokes about how she has earned a higher level degree through her consistent participation in continuing education. She works closely with Sheila Frick, the developer of Therapeutic Listening, and many other OTs around the world to provide the best therapies in West Michigan.
MODERATOR:
SUSAN WOOLER, CPXP, NEUROSCIENCES PATIENT AND CAREGIVER SUPPORT & COMMUNITY PARTNER AT MERCY HEALTH HAUENSTEIN NEUROSCIENCES
Susan is the neuroscience patient support coordinator at Mercy Health Hauenstein Neurosciences in Grand Rapids. She provides support for patients, caregivers and families who have been impacted by a variety of neurological illnesses including dementia, Parkinson's disease, ALS, Stroke, MS and Epilepsy.
Support may include technology, assistive tools, educational programming, creative art therapy, support groups and peer mentors programs all of which help provide independence, emotional support, peer connection and quality of life for patients and families. Susan has been a pioneer in the creation and monitoring of secure online patient communities and the methodology that makes them successful. She recently was Certified as a Certified Patient Experience Professional and has a Mayo Clinic Social Media Fellowship and uses social media to connect with people and communities.
