Building Bridges Through Sensory Integration: Therapy for Children with Autism and Other Pervasive Developmental Disorders

Ellen Yack, B.Sc., M.Ed., O.T., has practiced as an occupational therapist since 1979 and has a Masters Degree in Education. She currently is the Director of Ellen Yack and Associates Paediatric Occupational Therapy Services, a private agency providing occupational therapy services to children, adolescents and their families in Toronto and surrounding areas. Ellen is also the occupational therapy consultant at the Geneva Centre for Autism. Her areas of expertise include sensory integration, autism spectrum disorders, developmental coordination disorder and learning disabilities. Paula Aquilla, B.Sc., O.T., is an occupational therapist. She has worked with adults and children in clinical, educational, home, and community-based settings. She founded the Yes I Can! Integrated Nursery School, Yes I Can! Summer Camp, and the I Love My Baby Program in Toronto and was the director for six years. Paula was also the founding executive director of Giant Steps in Toronto, an innovative program of intensive therapies, academics, and support services for children with autism spectrum disorder. Shirley Sutton B.Sc., O.T., has worked with children and teens with special needs for over 25 years. She currently has a private practice in Collingwood and also works for Children's Therapy Services of Orillia Soldiers' Memorial Hospital in Early Intervention. In addition to being a well known presenter across Canada, Shirley is primarily a clinician, and currently consults for several Community Living Associations and the Achimota Centre for Children with Autism. Her special interests and training include developmental disorders (including autism), sensory integration, and early intervention.