Our Clients Say
"Kerri takes the time to build positive relationships and rapport with the children she works with and their families. She individualizes to the child’s needs and the family’s needs as well. Not only does she help on the ground by modeling and guidance with the child; but she is sure to help the adult working with the child to understand how to carry out the strategies in order to ensure long lasting effects. It has been an incredible opportunity to have worked with her."
D. A., parent and school teacher
Our Story
In practice as an occupational therapy assistant since 2001, Kerri started Joyful Connections in the summer of 2023 to expand her work with children and families. By providing encouragement, education, and resources in both home and community settings, the Joyful Connections approach focuses on those daily tasks and activities that can be challenging for families who are managing developmental and behavioral concerns.
With over 20 years of experience working in Early Intervention, Autistic Support, and parent-coaching models, Kerri has developed a unique approach that focuses on the relationship between the parent/caregiver and the child as the foundation for skill progression. She believes that parents are the experts on their children and that connecting through meaningful interactions and joyful activities improves the overall quality of life for the family.
A huge part of raising a neurodivergent child is understanding how to advocate for the best support services available through medical, allied health, and educational systems. Being the proud momma of two neurodiverse kiddos herself, Kerri has first-hand experience with what is attainable when you navigate through all of the bureaucracy. Kerri’s long-term goal is to meet the needs of the neurodivergent community by empowering caregivers and families to become their own agents of change. Through mentoring and advocating for optimal services and support, Kerri intends to maximize every family's opportunity to engage and participate in their community.
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In her rare moments of "free time", Kerri enjoys being outdoors, practicing yoga, doing research, gardening, and occasionally cooking or baking. As a mom, Kerri loves dancing and crafting with her daughter and discussing astronomy and ALL things science-related with her son.
Areas of Focus/Specialty:
Children between the ages of 1-11 years old with delayed developmental milestones · Autism Spectrum Disorder · Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) · Sensory difficulties · Communication challenges · Behavior obstacles · Learning difficulties · Sleep problems · Feeding/picky eating · Toilet training · Parent coaching · Picture Exchange Communication (PECS) · American Sign Language · TEACHH technique
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Education:
AAS in Occupational Therapy, Delaware Technical & Community College · Diploma in American Sign Language and Deaf Studies, Delaware Technical & Community College · BS in Integrated Social Sciences, Pennsylvania State University · Currently pursuing a Master of Science degree in Occupational Therapy, Thomas Jefferson University · Member of the Occupational Therapy National Honor Society, Pi Theta Epsilon
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Experience:
Delaware Autism Program · Delaware School for the Deaf · Easter Seals · Owen J. Roberts School District · Spring-Ford Area School District · Norristown Area School District · Autism Center of Excellence, Philadelphia, P.A. · Graduate Research Assistant at Autism Center of Excellence, Philadelphia · Student-Faculty Task Force, Thomas Jefferson University Occupational Therapy Master of Science Program
C.K.
"Kerri truly understood my son and listened when I talked about my concerns, particularly related to trauma and sensory issues.
G.M.
"I have seen tremendous progress since my son began working with Kerri. She is a rare gem. She gets the whole picture."
E.S.
“Kerri is organized, knowledgeable, and fun. She has such a broad spectrum of clinical knowledge. She is a genius at what she does.”