A big part of what makes me different is that I’m a pediatric occupational therapist, which means I’m a whole body provider.

I’ve chosen to specialize in infant development and feeding and have spent years building my knowledge base in this area. An OT with infant specialization can do a lot to support a breastfeeding dyad. The great thing about being an occupational therapist is having a knowledge base that helps us assess and treat so many challenges that infants and breastfeeding dyads face. We are the baby milestones experts.

I have specialized training in:

• Oral motor skills, swallowing function, feeding function

• Developmental skills- tummy time, rolling, sitting, crawling reflex integration

• Sensory difficulties that could be contributing to feeding issues

• Positioning- we support the breastfeeding dyad with positioning to improve breastfeeding, also in the infant to support the babies development and avoid issues like head flattening

• Bodywork/Craniosacral therapy- to address any muscle imbalances, tight tissues, tension

• Bottle feeding- helping to identify appropriate bottles/nipples that will improve feeds

With this combination of skills, I can offer you comprehensive lactation and developmental support. I have specialized whole-body training, I'm able to provide several therapies in-house. This helps you decrease the need for appointments with multiple providers. I know the early days of having a baby are hectic, especially if feeding has been challenging. Getting to multiple appointments with different providers can be stressful for you and your baby.

It’s important to know that not every occupational therapist can treat all of these issues. If you having feeding difficulties find a therapist that specializes in infant feeding and ask if the provider has had training in the treatment approach you are looking for.

If you are in Charleston and having difficulties with breast and/or bottle feeding, I'm here for you.