Therapeutic Consultation in Virginia

What to expect:

1. Comprehensive Assessment

Every case begins with:

• Conversations with the individual, caregivers, DSPs, and relevant providers

• Observation of routines across home, community, or day-support settings

• Review of existing documentation, intervention history, and data

My priority is understanding the full picture: strengths, communication systems, sensory considerations, mental health needs, environmental demands, and the individual’s unique ways of moving through their day.

2. Functional, Person-Centered Planning

I develop written support plans that are clear, practical, and aligned with ISP outcomes. Plans may include:

• Proactive environmental supports

• Emotional-regulation and coping strategies

• Communication opportunities and engagement planning

• Safety and crisis-prevention guidelines

• Data systems designed for real-world use

My plans are always written in accessible language so families and DSPs know exactly what to do and why.

3. Training and Coaching for Caregivers and DSPs

Training is practical and tailored. I use:

• Modeling of specific strategies

• Shaping to gradually build skillful implementation

• Differential reinforcement to support team members as they learn

• Rehearsal and feedback until strategies feel natural

• Environmental feedback to build awareness of what works

Teams leave training with the confidence to support the individual effectively and consistently.

4. Ongoing Monitoring and Adjustment

As strategies are implemented, I provide:

• Follow-up observations

• Review of data and documentation

• Problem-solving with caregivers and staff

• Adjustments to the plan or environment

• Demonstrations of interventions when needed

Quarterly reviews include data visualization and a clear evaluation of progress, along with targeted recommendations for the next period.

5. A Values-Driven Model

My clinical philosophy is rooted in:

• Psychological flexibility (ACT)

• Respect for autonomy and identity

• Communication-first support

• Reducing stress and increasing stability

• Building meaningful, sustainable routines

• Collaboration with families, DSPs, and providers

The ultimate goal is simple: create environments where the individual can thrive, and support teams feel grounded, confident, and aligned.

Stellaterra specializes in supporting:

• Individuals with dual diagnoses, including Down syndrome with co-occurring anxiety or depression

• Individuals with autism and additional mental health needs

• Families seeking a collaborative, non-punitive, values-driven approach

• DSP teams needing clear, compassionate training and ongoing guidance

• Providers looking for consistent behavioral, environmental, and systems-level support

I intentionally maintain a small caseload to ensure depth, responsiveness, and meaningful partnership with every family and team I serve.

At this time, I accept the DD Waiver or private pay only.