Resources for Those with Special Needs
In Westchester, holistic options are flourishing for families facing disabilities and other challenges.
Erna Gehlbach Rushin
Healing Source Physical Therapy
Pediatric Clinical Specialist
WeeZee World, 480 Bedford Rd., Chappaqua, NY 10514
845.363.1035 • [email protected] HealingSourcePT.com
Certification: Certified Integrative Manual Therapy Practitioner, Licensed Physical Therapist
Years practicing: 30+
Special needs focus: Our unique program combines integrative manual therapy (a powerful hands-on therapy that corrects the cause of dysfunction); Brain Gym (movement-based activities to augment brain function); neuro-developmental treatment (addressing central nervous system pathophysiology to optimize function); and reflex integration (facilitating the integration of persistent early childhood reflexes interfering with development), all in a 16,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art, sensory-motor health club for kids. Our therapists have advanced clinical expertise, with a combined 60+ years working with children.
Specialty or expertise: We specialize in using an integrative, hands-on diagnostic and treatment approach to correcting the causes of a child’s physical, cognitive, behavioral or sensory-processing issues. We see excellent results in children with asthma, allergies, digestive issues, ADHD, learning disabilities, autistic spectrum disorder, neurological disorders and more. In addition to the special needs therapies listed above, my expertise includes pediatric physical therapy, PNF and sensory processing disorders.
Goal in helping others: To provide services that are highly effective, cutting-edge, minimally invasive and, especially, fun! I achieve that goal through continual learning, consulting with colleagues and, most importantly, listening to children and families.
Professional passion: I find my greatest passion in helping families attain their child’s optimal potential by providing excellent clinical skills, knowledge, empowerment and support. The joy of seeing this happen is extremely gratifying for all involved.
Vitalah Simon
Founder of YogaShine
Yoga Teacher and Dance/Movement Therapist
7-11 Legion Dr., Valhalla, NY 10595
914.769.8745 • [email protected] • YogaShine.com
Certification: Masters of Education in Counseling and Dance/Movement Therapy, Registered Yoga Teacher (500-Hour Level), Licensed Creative Arts Therapist, Board-Certified Dance Movement Therapist
Years practicing: 23+
Special needs focus: Integrating Brain Gym , we specialize in autistic spectrum disorders, PDD and ADD/ADHD, for children of all ages with developmental, physical and emotional disabilities. Kids enjoy playful movement; learn and create postures; build strength and mental focus; and develop self-calming and cooperation skills. We offer individually tailored child/parent sessions for enriching communication and relationships, individual yoga/movement therapy, family yoga, group classes, and parent support services.
Specialty or expertise: I excel in connecting nonverbally with children who are often hard to reach otherwise, drawing them out and helping them reconnect with themselves and others. I adapt movement, rhythm, song and play to enrich and stabilize the child’s world.
Goal in helping others: To engage with another in a meaningful way that helps them feel happier and more at home in themselves and their bodies. This allows for greater abilities to self-regulate and get along in the world.
Professional passion: I am grateful to participate in the transformation of apparently difficult lives into little yogis and yoginis who shine.