Conference Introduction
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The Joy and Grief of IM Training: Words from a Survivor
Brad & Lori Schmidt
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[toggle title=”Course Description”]Brad Schmidt and his mother, Lori Schmidt, will present their story on the benefits of Interactive Metronome training from a first person perspective. Brad struggled for 17 years with ADD and undiagnosed Asperger’s characteristics. Despite his “gifted” label and a multitude of pharmaceutical and behavioral interventions, Brad was not able to function independently in society. During his senior year in high school, his outlook on and experience of life was changed dramatically through IM training.
Brad is now socially connected, very articulate, no longer on medication and succeeding both personally and professionally. Meeting him today, one would never know he once struggled terribly with the fundamental basics of life. He has the unique capacity to vocalize and clearly articulate what it feels like to have a disconnected versus a connected brain.[/toggle]
[toggle title=”Brad Schmidt, OTR/L”]
Brad suffered from ADD, expressive language delay, social disconnect, and sensory/motor challenges as a child. Daily life was stressful for Brad and his parents – homework, interaction with peers, and chores led to melt-downs. His parents worried that he would never be able to live independently. Upon referral from his family physician, he went through Interactive Metronome training as a senior in high school. Immediately, he experienced life changing benefits. Brad went on to graduate from Kansas State University in 2008 with a BS in biology where he was the recipient of the Putnam Scholarship and the Johnson Undergraduate Cancer Research Award. He then attended Rockhurst University in Kansas City, MO and graduated with his MOT in 2010. He presently works for RehabVisions based in Hutchinson, Kansas. Newly married, he enjoys the fullness of life that IM has offered him.[/toggle]
[toggle title=”Lori Schmidt, BS”]Lori Schmidt, BS in Education, taught for over 20 years in special education and early childhood before founding IM Focused, LLC in 2003 after her own son went through Interactive Metronome training. Mrs. Schmidt has served
approximately 400 individuals in Northeastern Kansas, specializing in helping children with mildly involved diagnoses and neuro-typical individuals. Passionate about the potential that IM brings, her personal goal is to offer to as many children as possible the chance to have the ‘typical’ childhood that her own son was unable to enjoy.[/toggle][/toggles] |
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Keynote Address: I think…therefore IM
Kevin McGrew, PhD
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[toggle title=”Course Description”]Based upon a review of IM-specific research, personal experience with IM-HOME, and a review of neurocognitive and brain-timing research, Dr. McGrew has developed a set of research and theory-based hypotheses regarding the cognitive demands and cognitive benefits of IM training. In this presentation, Dr McGrew will provide an update on the most current evidence for how IM invokes and trains controlled attention (focus), working memory, executive functions, and more efficient brain network communication. The “why” of the cognitive benefits of IM training (e.g., controlled attention; selective on-demand focus; quieting the busy mind; increased neural or brain efficiency) will be placed in the context of contemporary cognitive neuroscience research and theory.[/toggle]
[toggle title=”Kevin McGrew, PhD”]Dr. Kevin McGrew is the Director of the Institute for Applied Psychometrics (IAP). He received a master’s degree in school psychology at Moorhead State University and his doctoral degree in Educational Psychology at the University of Minnesota. He was a practicing school psychologist for 12 years. He spent 10 years as a Professor of Applied Psychology at St. Cloud State University. He is currently a Visiting Professor in Educational Psychology at the University of Minnesota. He serves as the Research and Science Director for Interactive Metronome.Dr. McGrew conducts research in the areas of theories of human intelligence, intelligence testing, school learning, and the application of neurotechnology to cognitive performance and learning. He has published over 60 different journal articles, books or book chapters in his areas of expertise. He is a coauthor of the Woodcock-Johnson Battery III. Detailed information can be found at his the IAP web page. McGrew disseminates information regarding human intelligence and the human brain clock at two professional blogs (IQs Corner; Brain Clock Blog).[/toggle][/toggles] |
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Picking up the Slack: Using IM-Home to Help ‘At-Risk’ Middle and High School Students
Mary Jones, OTR/L, LMT, CIMT
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[toggle title=”Course Description”]This presentation is aimed at providers working with
students attending middle and high school who are struggling to adjust to the rigors of social,
academic and behavioral pressures. Materials will cover the rising incidence of prescriptions
for mood stabilizing drugs and/or mental health interventions in lieu of identifying and meeting
the physiological needs of these children. Use of the IM System will be discussed within the
context of a multi-modal approach to help this age group pace their learning journey and embrace
challenges in both scholastic and emotional milieu.[/toggle]
[toggle title=”Mary Jones, OTR/L,
LIMT, CIMT”]Mary graduated from St. Loye’s School of Occupational Therapy (UK) in 1986. Has been an Occupational Therapist for 20 (+) years and has
been practicing in the USA since 1993. Additional training has included a BS in Healthcare and
Social Welfare from Manchester University in 1992, Massage Therapy License in 1996, NDT
certification in 1994. Mary has worked in a variety of healthcare settings in both the USA and
the UK. These include home health in the inner-city (London), orthopedics, geriatric psychiatry,
outpatient rehab, brain injury specialty (adult and pediatric) and pediatric outpatient therapy.
Clinical advanced training includes NDT advanced courses, infant massage certification,
cranio-sacral therapy, myofascial release techniques, motor control and the development of motor
learning, Therapeutic Listening Program, Integrated Listening Systems, Brain Gym, Pilates,
Active Isolated Stretching Techniques, Visual-motor Training, Vestibular Training, Beckman Oral
Motor Assessment and Intervention, Handwriting Without Tears, ADHD and Nutrition Interventions,
Aromatherapy, Aquatic Therapy, Sensory Integration assessment and interventions, Autism
assessment and interventions, Interactive Metronome Certification and Development of Best
Practice Strategies with IM. Mary owns her own pediatric practice “Sensational Kids LLC”, based
out of Bradenton, FL. Mary has lectured extensively in her field at a local and national
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Patients with Alzheimer’s Improve Using Interactive Metronome
Randee VanNess, MS, Psychotherapist
CEO – Brain Development Centers
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[toggle title=”Course Description”]In this groundbreaking presentation, Randee VanNess of Medical Restoration Centers will describe how they are using the Interactive Metronome to improve functional abilities in seniors suffering from dementia and Alzheimer’s. They will share valuable information regarding their creative clinical approach and treatment outcomes.[/toggle]
[toggle title=”Randee VanNess, MS, Psychotherapist & CEO – Brain
Development Centers”]Randee Van Ness, Psychotherapist, graduated from the University of the Rockies with a Masters in Neuropsychology. She is currently
completing her Doctorate in Neuropsychology with an emphasis on Alzheimer’s disease. Mrs. Van Ness is the owner of two medical clinics, Medical Restoration Centers and Brain Development Centers. Mrs. Van Ness has 8 years of clinical experience working with brain injuries and
autism. She found a link between the medications patients were taking and early onset Alzheimer’s disease. Mrs. Van Ness is actively treating these patients with a multi-modality cognitive therapy that she developed. She has had success with all levels of Alzheimer’s disease. Interactive Metronome is the cornerstone treatment used with her Alzheimer’s patients.[/toggle][/toggles] |
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Immediate Effects of Interactive Metronome on Cognition and Electrocortical Functioning in Recovery from Blast Related Traumatic Brain Injury
Lonnie Nelson, PhD
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[toggle title=”Course Description”]Dr. Nelson will present the findings of a recently completed randomized controlled, trial of Interactive Metronome (IM) therapy in the treatment of persisting cognitive symptoms following blast-related traumatic brain injury in a sample of active duty Soldiers. Soldiers were randomly assigned to receive either standard rehabilitation care, or standard care plus Interactive Metronome therapy. Initial findings show that IM therapy significantly improved Attention, Immediate Memory, and Delayed Memory functioning. Indicators of neuroplastic change suggest that brain changes due to IM therapy account for large portions of the variance in neuropsychological test performance. Six month follow-up data are currently being collected.[/toggle]
[toggle title=”Lonnie Nelson, PhD”]Dr. Nelson earned his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Arizona in 2004. He completed a postdoctoral fellowship in
Rehabilitation Psychology at the University of Washington Harborview Medical Center in 2005. He has worked with the Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center as a Research Neuropsychologist since 2007. His primary research interests are in the domain of neuroplasticity, neural repair, and health promotion. He is currently an Acting Assistant Professor at the University of Washington School of Public Health, Department of Health Services.[/toggle][/toggles] |
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Advanced IM for Pediatrics: Practical and Innovative Techniques to Take Your IM Practice to the Next Level
Dillen Hartley, OTR/L
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[toggle title=”Course Description”]The evolution and growth of our understanding of Interactive Metronome and the influence it can have on brain processing shapes our practice. When you can more effectively identify a client’s challenge in processing and integration and you are specifically addressing these challenges with IM, your ability to facilitate life-changing and self-perpetuating function is maximized. Practical and innovative ways to identify challenges in processing and the ability to plan and implement advanced evidence-based Interactive Metronome treatment plans will take your practice and influence to the next
level.[/toggle]
[toggle title=”Dillen Hartley, OTR/L”]Dillen Hartley, OTR/L graduated from the University of Pretoria, South Africa, school of Occupational Therapy in 1995 and moved to the
USA in 1996. He is co-owner of Advanced Therapy Solutions, Inc, an outpatient Physical and Occupational Therapy practice serving clients of all ages in five locations. Mr. Hartley has 14 years of clinical experience and is trained in multiple treatment approaches with both adults and pediatrics. His interests include the treatment of deficits related to stroke, traumatic brain injury, Autism, development disorders, sensory processing disorders, ADHD, ADD and learning disabilities in infants, children and adults. His experience with sensory integration, neuromuscular re-education, brain gym, vision therapy, environmental adaptation, Tai-Chi, yoga and technology based treatment approaches for all ages has served him well as a presenter of certification courses, webinars and professional seminars. Mr. Hartley serves as a clinical advisor for Interactive Metronome and other “Therapy based” companies in research, protocol and
practice development areas.[/toggle][/toggles] |
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IM and Fall Risk Reduction: An Interdisciplinary Approach
Dara Coburn, MS, CCC-SLP & Shelley Thomas, MPT
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[toggle title=”Course Description”]All professionals working in medical/hospital, rehabilitation, skill nursing, assisted-living, and home health settings recognize the important role they each play in reducing the risk of falls. Assessing fall risk, modifying the
environment for increased safety, patient/caregiver education/training and rehabilitation all contribute to reducing falls. Despite all of the emphasis and effort placed upon fall risk reduction, falls remain a costly problem for most institutions and for patients who suffer from the debilitating effect of falls. The purpose of this course is to introduce an interdisciplinary approach to fall risk reduction that emphasizes two often-overlooked features:
1) that each professional who encounters the patient is responsible for identifying fall risk and intervening to reduce risks, and 2) how timing in the brain (or temporal processing) is at the heart of reducing falls, including its effect on several systems: musculoskeletal, proprioceptive, oculomotor, vestibular, cognitive and communicative. Practical tips and strategies will be discussed, including how the Interactive Metronome can be incorporated by various professionals into rehabilitation programs to specifically address the root cause of conditions that contribute to increased falls.[/toggle]
[toggle title=”Dara Coburn, MS,
CCC-SLP”]Dara received her undergraduate and masters degree from the University of Central Arkansas and holds the Certificate of Clinical Competence issued by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Dara is the National Program Champion for Interactive Metronome within the HealthSouth Corporation. She also serves as Interactive Metronome’s Clinical Support contact person for Life Care Centers of America. With expertise and experience in the field of neurological disorders, Dara was able to accept this new treatment tool and has been able to successfully integrate it into her practice by modifying it to individually meet her patient’s needs.[/toggle][toggle title=”Shelley Thomas, MPT”]Shelley received her physical therapy degree from the Mayo Clinic in 1999 and is currently the Director of Rehabilitation at Idaho Elks Rehabilitation Hospital in Boise, Idaho. She has worked primarily adults with neurological and general medical issues and has embraced incorporating Interactive Metronome and Gait Mate into treatment sessions. She serves as the lead therapist at her facility working with physical, occupational, speech, and recreational therapists to educate them about how to incorporate IM and Gait Mate into their treatments to improve functional outcomes. Shelley has been teaching IM Certification Courses since 2008 and has contributed to the development of the Gait Mate Certification Course.[/toggle][/toggles] |
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Delivering the IM System (IM Pro & IM-Home) with Clinical Success
Sherrie Hardy, MA, MIMC & April Christopherson, OTR/L
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[toggle title=”Course Description”]Because you demanded it and we listened, the Interactive Metronome has evolved in recent years to become a complete system to better meet the needs of your clients. Interactive Metronome is now referred to as The IM System and includes the IM Pro, the new in-motion trigger, tap mat, and button triggers, and a completely revamped IM Home with eClinic. The in motion trigger fosters your ability to work on critical timing for balance, gait & fall prevention while actually ambulating. It also allows you to address higher cognitive processing and attention within real-life settings, further decreasing the likelihood of falls and improving a person’s ability to focus and tune out distractions. The new wireless triggers were designed to facilitate more
specific and motivating treatments, both of which are important for treatment success. The new IM Home and eClinic allow you to remotely serve clients who are limited in their ability to see you in-person in your clinic due to distance, schedule conflicts or finances. This option also allows you to reach out to larger groups of individuals more efficiently and provides a long-term affordable treatment option for people who are continuing their recovery after discharge from formal care or who have conditions that require ongoing treatment. This informative session will focus on The IM System and its application for a variety
of client types and treatment settings to broaden your clinical practice & reach. Topics covered will include selecting the appropriate IM tool to meet the needs of each client, methods of service delivery, financial considerations for your clients, and the marketing & growth of your business.[/toggle]
[toggle title=”April Christopherson, OTR/L”]April has been an Occupational Therapist for almost 20 years and has worked with diverse populations in a variety of
settings – including home health, private clinic and in-patient rehabilitation. She is the owner of MaxAchieve, Inc. in Colorado Springs, CO where her current clientele range from pediatrics to adults to high performance athletes, both stateside and internationally. She believes in a whole, team approach to the client – including various medical professionals and therapists plus the use of functional neurology and metabolic/nutrition counseling. She also works exclusively with the Shandy Clinic in Colorado Springs, CO providing solutions to families with children suffering from Autism, Asperger’s, ADHD, and other diagnoses. April has worked as a legal consultant and as an expert witness throughout the United States. April was granted her degrees in Occupational Therapy and Psychology from St Ambrose University in Davenport, IA in 1991.[/toggle]
[toggle title=”Sherrie Hardy, MA, MIMC”]Sherrie Hardy is a credentialed elementary and middle-school teacher (grades K-9) with reading and adult education credentials, a master’s degree in marital and family therapy, and MIMC Interactive Metronome certification who has trained in sensory integration and perceptual-motor integration. Sherrie has designed perceptual-motor training programs in school, hospital, youth club and therapy clinics. Sherrie opened Hardy Brain Training in Camarillo, CA in 2003 which specializes in creating success for children, teens and adults who struggle with attention, learning and behavior difficulties that have not been successfully treated by special school programs, IEPs, 504 plans, tutoring, counseling, therapy and other programs.[/toggle][/toggles] |
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An Effective Model of Large-Scale IM System Delivery within Organizations such as Schools, Churches, Non-Profits &
Clubs like the Boys & Girls Club of America
Sherrie Hardy, MA, MIMC
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[toggle title=”Course Description”]Scalability of the Interactive Metronome program has always been a challenge for many IM providers with regard to how to do it effectively (delivering quality care) and efficiently (utilizing resources – time and money). Sherrie Hardy of Hardy Brain Training started off with a small pilot of 3 children in the Boys & Girls Club 2 years ago. Today her team has figured out how to scale IM training to delivering IM to 1,000 children in 2012 and 2,000 in 2013!Students showed an average improvement of:
- 35.2% in ability to pay attention
- 32.1% in reading, math, spelling, and writing
- 26.7% in ability to organize and communicate ideas
- 35.1% in focus
- 30.4% in ability to finish work on time
- 32.1% in listening skills
- 27.5% in ability to manage frustration
- 31.3% in ability to finish work independently
- 20.8% in coordination and motor skills
- 25.4% in ability to work well with others
- 30.5% in self confidence
Learn how to take her concepts to your local schools, churches and other organizations like the Boys & Girls Club to implement group training. Cases will be presented on school and church setting scalability pilots that are underway as well.[/toggle]
[toggle title=”Sherrie Hardy, MA, MIMC”]Sherrie Hardy is a credentialed elementary and middle-school teacher (grades K-9) with reading and adult education credentials, a master’s degree in marital and family therapy, and MIMC Interactive Metronome certification who has trained in sensory integration and perceptual-motor integration. Sherrie has designed perceptual-motor training programs in school, hospital, youth club and therapy clinics. Sherrie opened Hardy Brain Training in Camarillo, CA in 2003 which specializes in creating success for children, teens and adults who struggle with attention, learning and behavior difficulties that have not been successfully treated by special school programs, IEPs, 504 plans, tutoring, counseling, therapy and other programs.[/toggle][/toggles] |
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Family Communication: What to Expect During IM Training
April Christopherson, OTR/L
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[toggle title=”Course Description”]This course will emphasize the importance of and the “how to” of family and individual communication before and during IM training. Video clips of actual clients will help the instructor to illustrate key points. You will participate in brainstorming good communication using Word Pictures and language that is Family Friendly to help them anticipate and better understand the effects of neurological reorganization.[/toggle]
[toggle title=”April Christopherson, OTR/L”]April has been an Occupational Therapist for almost 20 years and has worked with diverse populations in a variety of settings – including home health, private clinic and in-patient rehabilitation. She is the owner of MaxAchieve, Inc. in Colorado Springs, CO where her current clientele range from pediatrics to adults to high performance athletes, both stateside and internationally. She believes in a whole, team approach to the client – including various medical professionals and therapists plus the use of functional neurology and metabolic/nutrition counseling. She also works exclusively with
the Shandy Clinic in Colorado Springs, CO providing solutions to families with children suffering from Autism, Asperger’s, ADHD, and other diagnoses. April has worked as a legal consultant and as an expert witness throughout the United States. April was granted her degrees in Occupational Therapy and Psychology from St Ambrose University in Davenport, IA in 1991.[/toggle][/toggles] |
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A Compilation of Research Results on the Positive Effects of the Interactive Metronome Working with Post CVA
Clients
Leonard Trullijo, PhD
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[toggle title=”Course Description”]The Interactive Metronome (IM) is an effective intervention strategy that can be used in working post CVA clients and should be considered as a primary modality used by OT practitioners. The Interactive Metronome (IM), which was developed in 1992, is a therapy modality through computer software that provides a metronome beat, while measuring a client’s motor response and providing feedback to the client (1). The IM can be used to coordinate many different body movements, including bilateral movements and movements crossing midline (1). IM software comes with two built-in assessments that have been
age-normed for ages 6 through adult (1). “The basis for the rehabilitative potential of the Interactive Metronome lies in the plasticity of the human brain and the use of timing, rhythm, and synchronization to improve processes underlying motor behavior. The brain’s capability for plasticity is the basis of rehabilitation in stroke, and typically refers to various processes of reorganization, recruitment, and remodeling within the brain” (2).The purpose of this presentation will be to potentially provide support for the use of IM, which would be valuable in expanding the evidence base of IM, as well as direct reimbursement for IM as a treatment modality and assessment in stroke survivors. The presentation will review multiple research studies that were conducted using the Interactive Metronome as the primary treatment modality. The results were measured against the outcome scores that the IM identifies as change; and standardized clinical evaluation tools such as the Nine Hole Peg test and Jebson hand Function Test along with the qualitative review of the COPM.Percentages of change from pre- to post-test measurement with the Long Form Assessment of the Interactive Metronome and the Nine Hole Peg Test were compared. Overall, both groups showed improvement on the outcomes, with the healthy participants averaging higher percentages of change. Data analysis found varying statistically significant differences between groups. These results give preliminary evidence that the Interactive Metronome may be an effective tool in stroke rehabilitation, and add to the body of evidence that
incorporating Interactive Metronome therapy into occupational therapy interventions can lead to successful outcomes.(1) Baker, S. N., Kilner, J. M., Pinches, E. M., & Lemon, R. N. (1999). The role of synchrony and oscillations in the motor output. Experimental Brain Research, 128, 109-117.
(2) Butz, M., Worgotter, F, & van Ooyen, A. (2009). Activity-dependent structural plasticity. Brain Research Reviews, 60, 287-305.[/toggle]
[toggle title=”Leonard Trujillo, PhD”]Dr.Trujillo is currently Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Occupational Therapy; East Carolina University. He has been an occupational therapist now for 35 years, with the majority of his clinical experience in the United States Air Force. He holds the distinction of being the only USAF Officer to have held the position of Program Director for the Tri Service OT Assistant Program at the Army’s Academy of Health Sciences, Ft. Sam Houston Texas. Prior to his arrival at East Carolina University he was Associate Professor, Associate Dean, School of Occupational Therapy at Texas Woman’s University, Dallas Campus. He earned his BS degree in Occupational Therapy from Colorado State, Master of Arts in Computer Resources and Information Management and his PhD in Educational Administration from Texas A&M. In 2006 was awarded AOTA achievement award and in 2010 he was awarded Fellow from AOTA. Much of Dr. Trujillo’s research has been focused on Distance Education Pedagogy, using Assistive Technology, Falls and Falls Prevention, and most importantly The Effectiveness of the
Interactive Metronome as a Treatment Modality in Occupational Therapy.[/toggle][/toggles] |
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Beating Dyslexia: Get in Sync
Barbara Fuoco-McCooley, MA, CCC-SLP
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[toggle title=”Course Description”]Many students arrive at my door with a language-related reading disorder such as dyslexia. The Interactive Metronome (IM) plays a key role in remediation and is used in conjunction with other evidenced-based practices such as one of the Orton-Gillingham reading approaches, reading fluency programs, strategies from Penn Literacy, and a variety of research-based approaches to the language-based reading fluency and reading comprehension problems that often accompany the diagnosis of dyslexia. This presentation will focus on targeted improvement of phonemic synthesis, phonemic segmentation, reading fluency, and comprehension. Intact timing and rhythm as targeted within the IM exercises will allow for better success in the broad academic arena that often is difficult for those with dyslexia even once they can decode the words accurately. We will examine the relationship between movement and the development of phonological awareness skills, memory, and reading comprehension.[/toggle]
[toggle title=”Barbara Fuoco-McCooley, MA, CCC-SLP”]Barbara Fuoco-McCooley, MA, CCC-SLP, received both her undergraduate and graduate degrees from the College of New Jersey. She has been a speech-language pathologist/consultant for more than 30 years in both the public and private sector. She has worked in public and private schools as well as in her private practice. Barbara has taught at the undergraduate and graduate level in speech-language pathology and special education at the College of New Jersey, Richard Stockton College of New Jersey, Rutgers University, and in developmental English courses at Burlington County College of New Jersey. Barbara has served as a consultant to the public and private school systems to develop curriculum in meeting the child’s needs while developing their strengths and presently is working on correlating the speech-language IEP goals of students requiring related services to the Common Core Curriculum. Barbara is the owner/director of Innovative Designs for Educational Achievement, LLC in Mount Laurel, New Jersey where her practice focuses on developing skills through a strength-based approach with evidence-based practices for clients with language-related reading/math issues, memory problems, as well as those on the autism spectrum from the preschool years through young adulthood. Barbara has lectured extensively in her field of speech-language pathology, reading, and special education at a local and national level.[/toggle][/toggles] |
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Use of IM with Degenerative Disorders of the Central Nervous System – and Beyond…
Mary Jones, OTR/L, LMT, CIMT
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[toggle title=”Course Description”]This presentation will address the specific challenges arising from disruption of timing mechanisms within disorders such as Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s Disease and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Many individuals are provided with a projected course mapping out patterns of inevitable functional decline. This presentation will supply you with practical strategies to boost an individual’s mental, emotional and physical capacities in the face of neurodegenerative decline. Content will cover modifications to treatment planning using The IM System and will follow the course of case study examples.[/toggle]
[toggle title=”Mary Jones, OTR/L, LIMT, CIMT”]Mary graduated from St. Loye’s School of Occupational Therapy (UK) in 1986. Has been an Occupational Therapist for 20 (+) years and has been practicing in the USA since 1993. Additional training has included a BS in Healthcare and Social Welfare from Manchester University in 1992, Massage Therapy License in 1996, NDT certification in 1994. Mary has worked in a variety of healthcare settings in both the USA and the UK. These include home health in the inner-city (London), orthopedics, geriatric psychiatry, outpatient rehab, brain injury specialty (adult and pediatric) and pediatric outpatient therapy. Clinical advanced training includes NDT advanced courses, infant massage certification, cranio-sacral therapy, myofascial release techniques, motor control and the development of motor learning, Therapeutic Listening Program, Integrated Listening Systems, Brain Gym, Pilates, Active Isolated Stretching Techniques, Visual-motor Training, Vestibular Training, Beckman Oral Motor Assessment and Intervention, Handwriting Without Tears, ADHD and Nutrition Interventions, Aromatherapy, Aquatic Therapy, Sensory Integration assessment and interventions, Autism assessment and interventions, Interactive Metronome Certification and Development of Best Practice Strategies with IM. Mary owns her own pediatric practice “Sensational Kids LLC”, based out of Bradenton, FL. Mary has lectured extensively in her field at a local and national level.[/toggle][/toggles] |
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Ask the Experts – Question & Answer Period with Conference Presenters
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[toggle title=”Course Description”]Before you go home, our knowledgeable conference presenters will convene for an engaging panel discussion about successful IM System delivery & outcomes for a variety of conditions & age groups, ranging from developmental pediatric disorders to neurodegenerative conditions encountered in adult neurorehabilitation. These clinical experts will answer more of your questions and are happy to share valuable clinical and business experiences to help you grow and serve your community.[/toggle][/toggles]
Panel Members:
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| April Christopherson, OTR/L |
Lonnie Nelson, PhD |
| Barbara Fuoco-McCooley, MA, CCC-SLP |
Lori Schmidt, Educator |
| Brad Schmidt, OTR/L |
Mary Jones, OTR/L, LMT, CIMT |
| Dara Coburn, MS, CCC-SLP |
Shelley Thomas, MPT |
| Dillen Hartley, OTR/L |
Sherrie Hardy, MA, MIMC |
| Kevin McGrew, PhD |
Randee VanNess, MS, Psychotherapist |
| Leonard Trujillo, PhD |
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Using Traditional and Nontraditional Ways to Keep Children Motivated During IM Sessions
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[toggle title=”Wendy Harron, OTR/L”]Wendy is a graduate of Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, PA. Wendy has extensive experience working with children suffering from Developmental Delay, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Learning Disabilities, ADD/ADHD, Sensory Processing Disorder, and various other genetic and developmental disabilities. She has also completed specialized training in the areas of sensory integration, autism, developmental disabilities, cerebral palsy, seating and positioning/wheelchairs/equipment and ADD/ADHD. She uses the Interactive Metronome in her practice regularly and has seen wonderful results.[/toggle][toggle title=”Course Description”]Children with varied diagnosis and abilities all benefit from IM sessions. The issue with many children is keeping them motivated to do well for the duration of your sessions with them. A child who is not a willing participant, will not have the same positive results as one who is motivated and engaged in his/her sessions. Over the years I have developed many different ways to keep the kids “In the Zone” to the completion of their sessions. Through this poster presentation I hope to inspire your creativity for exercises and rewards. When you work with children, working “out of the box” is a daily occurrence.[/toggle][/toggles]
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From Special Ed to Honor Roll
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[toggle title=”Mary Jane Martin, MEd”]Mary Jane received her Bachelor’s degree from Thomas Edison State College and did graduate work at Holy Family University in Pennsylvania. She is certified as an elementary teacher and has more than 20 years classroom experience. In addition to working as a Learning Specialist, she is the co- owner and Program Director for The Cognitive Enhancement Center of Bucks County. Mary Jane is trained as a provider/facilitator for The Interactive Metronome, The Listening Program, and Fast Forward reading products. Additionally, she is trained in The Structure of Intellect theory of intelligence, SOI Cognitive Skills Assessments, the Wilson Reading method and the Orton Gillingham multisensory approach to reading.
Mary Jane began using brain based interventions with her own daughters and witnessed amazing academic transformations!! She opened The Cognitive Enhancement Center with her goal being; to make a difference with every child who struggles to learn. Mary Jane is cutting edge and innovative by working on weak underlying cognitive skills rather than academic curriculum. She doesn’t just tutor; she trains the brain to process incoming information which in turn enables her students to become more efficient learners.[/toggle][toggle title=”Course Description”]Interactive Metronome therapy is used to improve the neurological functions of motor planning and sequencing. Its ability to improve whole brain processing is of particular interest to educators due to its effects on cognition and academic functioning.
This poster session will explore options to use with IM to improve attention and concentration, processing speed and working memory. Optimal improvement in these core cognitive abilities allows the brain to efficiently process incoming information which in turn enables students to become more competent learners.[/toggle][/toggles]
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Ensuring Profitability & Success with IM-Home
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[toggle title=”Reid Christopherson”]Reid has over 25 years of broad business experience leading the successful start-up of several businesses, including being the managing partner for two successful management consulting firms. He spent a number or years with a Fortune 50 corporation as well as serving in leadership roles with an industry leading manufacturing company. He served in academia as a university business professor, teaching courses in the areas of strategy, leadership and management, and organizational behavior. Reid has years of experience in the areas of operations, finance, marketing and human resources. As a certified Business Process Kaizen facilitator, he is trained to help organizations identify operational and process inefficiencies and create solutions to provide thousands of dollars in immediate savings. He has worked with many companies large and small to help them overcome their unique challenges including, but not limited to lack of growth, limited profitability, the trials of new business start-up, hiring and managing staff, and ineffective processes and systems. In the last several years Reid has specialized in the area of healthcare, helping a variety of clinic and practice owners with the many difficult challenges they face.[/toggle]
[toggle title=”Course Description”]This presentation will focus on the fundamentals of business planning for profitability with the IM System: IM Pro and IM-Home. It will look at the components of the in-clinic and at-home models, including the target patient population, options for providing training to the patient, how to manage and track costs, how to price both in-clinic and at-home training, and how to bill, including cash and insurance billing. The presentation will include examples and case studies for a wide variety of clinics and providers.[/toggle][/toggles]
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IM Resolved My PTSD
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[toggle title=”Dana Merritt, CCC-SLP”]Dana M. Merritt, MS, CCC-SLP, IMT, is a graduate of the University of South Florida and has been a Speech-Language Pathologist since 1981. She was trained as a Vision Therapist in 1996. She has gained valuable experience from teaching K – 12th grade in a home-school setting and has a strong phonics approach to learning how to read. Dana became a certified professional with Scientific Learning for Fast ForWord in March, 1997 and a certified Interactive Metronome Therapist in May, 2002. She is a member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and the Florida Speech-Language-Hearing Association (FLASHA). She specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of auditory, visual and motor processing disorders that cause delays in speech, language and learning. Dana has presented at ASHA and IM national conferences. Two of her case studies been published in Advance. She has also been nationally recognized by Scientific Learning Corporation, three times, 2008, 2009 and 2010. She has developed her own phonics program called “A Time for Phonics” that utilizes the ‘eye gates’ the ‘ear gates’ and the ‘motor gates’ concurrently in a unique and dynamic way. It is in the process of being published. In July, 2012, she published an article in Plexus:”Imitation, the Mirror Neuron System and Autism.”[/toggle][toggle title=”Course Description”]PTSD affects millions of people in the USA. It can debilitate a person so completely that he cannot work or maintain relationships. Medical treatments help modify the production of neurotransmitters. Psychological treatments can help a person learn new techniques for social interactions. But what about the reduction in size of the hippocampus as a result of sustained PTSD? What about the shearing of dendrites as a result of stress on the neurons? I believe that 15 sessions of IM drove my “motor gate” into creating greater neurogenesis of neurons in the hippocampus and greater neuroplasiticity of connecting longitudinal fibers. During this poster session, I will share my personal information with the desire that you will offer IM to others who are struggling with PTSD.[/toggle][/toggles]
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Using Electronic Documentation “Fusion/Goal-Tracker to Document “IM”
Progress
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[toggle title=”Dillen Hartley, OTR/L”]Dillen Hartley, OTR/L graduated from the University of Pretoria, South Africa, school of Occupational Therapy in 1995 and moved to the USA in 1996. He is co-owner of Advanced Therapy Solutions, Inc, an outpatient Physical and Occupational Therapy practice serving clients of all ages in five locations. Mr. Hartley has 14 years of clinical experience and is trained in multiple treatment approaches with both adults and pediatrics. His interests include the treatment of deficits related to stroke, traumatic brain injury, Autism, development disorders, sensory processing disorders, ADHD, ADD and learning disabilities in infants, children and adults. His experience with sensory integration, neuromuscular re-education, brain gym, vision therapy, environmental adaptation, Tai-Chi, yoga and technology based treatment approaches for all ages has served him well as a presenter of certification courses, webinars and professional seminars. Mr. Hartley serves as a clinical advisor for Interactive Metronome and other “Therapy based” companies in research, protocol and practice development areas.[/toggle][toggle title=”Course Description”]IM providers are often faced with the challenge of creating goals and monitoring functional progress effectively and efficiently. In addition, finding a documentation system that compliments your practice, schedule and billing can be very complex and time consuming. This poster session will review two sister Electronic Documentation Systems, “Fusion and Goal-Tracker” used by therapists and educators. Fusion and Goal-Tracker are internet-based software documentation and practice management programs designed to help IM providers create and track a client’s goals and manage their practice more effectively.[/toggle][/toggles]
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Brad suffered from ADD, expressive language delay, social disconnect, and sensory/motor challenges as a child. Daily life was stressful for Brad and his parents – homework, interaction with peers, and chores led to melt-downs. His parents worried that he would never be able to live independently. Upon referral from his family physician, he went through Interactive Metronome training as a senior in high school. Immediately, he experienced life changing benefits. Brad went on to graduate from Kansas State University in 2008 with a BS in biology where he was the recipient of the Putnam Scholarship and the Johnson Undergraduate Cancer Research Award. He then attended Rockhurst University in Kansas City, MO and graduated with his MOT in 2010. He presently works for RehabVisions based in Hutchinson, Kansas. Newly married, he enjoys the fullness of life that IM has offered him.[/toggle]
Lori Schmidt, BS in Education, taught for over 20 years in special education and early childhood before founding IM Focused, LLC in 2003 after her own son went through Interactive Metronome training. Mrs. Schmidt has served
Dr. Kevin McGrew is the Director of the Institute for Applied Psychometrics (IAP). He received a master’s degree in school psychology at Moorhead State University and his doctoral degree in Educational Psychology at the University of Minnesota. He was a practicing school psychologist for 12 years. He spent 10 years as a Professor of Applied Psychology at St. Cloud State University. He is currently a Visiting Professor in Educational Psychology at the University of Minnesota. He serves as the Research and Science Director for Interactive Metronome.Dr. McGrew conducts research in the areas of theories of human intelligence, intelligence testing, school learning, and the application of neurotechnology to cognitive performance and learning. He has published over 60 different journal articles, books or book chapters in his areas of expertise. He is a coauthor of the Woodcock-Johnson Battery III. Detailed information can be found at his the IAP web page. McGrew disseminates information regarding human intelligence and the human brain clock at two professional blogs (IQs Corner; Brain Clock Blog).[/toggle][/toggles]
Mary graduated from St. Loye’s School of Occupational Therapy (UK) in 1986. Has been an Occupational Therapist for 20 (+) years and has
Randee Van Ness, Psychotherapist, graduated from the University of the Rockies with a Masters in Neuropsychology. She is currently
Dr. Nelson earned his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Arizona in 2004. He completed a postdoctoral fellowship in
Dillen Hartley, OTR/L graduated from the University of Pretoria, South Africa, school of Occupational Therapy in 1995 and moved to the
Dara received her undergraduate and masters degree from the University of Central Arkansas and holds the Certificate of Clinical Competence issued by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Dara is the National Program Champion for Interactive Metronome within the HealthSouth Corporation. She also serves as Interactive Metronome’s Clinical Support contact person for Life Care Centers of America. With expertise and experience in the field of neurological disorders, Dara was able to accept this new treatment tool and has been able to successfully integrate it into her practice by modifying it to individually meet her patient’s needs.[/toggle][toggle title=”Shelley Thomas, MPT”]
Shelley received her physical therapy degree from the Mayo Clinic in 1999 and is currently the Director of Rehabilitation at Idaho Elks Rehabilitation Hospital in Boise, Idaho. She has worked primarily adults with neurological and general medical issues and has embraced incorporating Interactive Metronome and Gait Mate into treatment sessions. She serves as the lead therapist at her facility working with physical, occupational, speech, and recreational therapists to educate them about how to incorporate IM and Gait Mate into their treatments to improve functional outcomes. Shelley has been teaching IM Certification Courses since 2008 and has contributed to the development of the Gait Mate Certification Course.[/toggle][/toggles]
April has been an Occupational Therapist for almost 20 years and has worked with diverse populations in a variety of
Sherrie Hardy is a credentialed elementary and middle-school teacher (grades K-9) with reading and adult education credentials, a master’s degree in marital and family therapy, and MIMC Interactive Metronome certification who has trained in sensory integration and perceptual-motor integration. Sherrie has designed perceptual-motor training programs in school, hospital, youth club and therapy clinics. Sherrie opened Hardy Brain Training in Camarillo, CA in 2003 which specializes in creating success for children, teens and adults who struggle with attention, learning and behavior difficulties that have not been successfully treated by special school programs, IEPs, 504 plans, tutoring, counseling, therapy and other programs.[/toggle][/toggles]
Dr.Trujillo is currently Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Occupational Therapy; East Carolina University. He has been an occupational therapist now for 35 years, with the majority of his clinical experience in the United States Air Force. He holds the distinction of being the only USAF Officer to have held the position of Program Director for the Tri Service OT Assistant Program at the Army’s Academy of Health Sciences, Ft. Sam Houston Texas. Prior to his arrival at East Carolina University he was Associate Professor, Associate Dean, School of Occupational Therapy at Texas Woman’s University, Dallas Campus. He earned his BS degree in Occupational Therapy from Colorado State, Master of Arts in Computer Resources and Information Management and his PhD in Educational Administration from Texas A&M. In 2006 was awarded AOTA achievement award and in 2010 he was awarded Fellow from AOTA. Much of Dr. Trujillo’s research has been focused on Distance Education Pedagogy, using Assistive Technology, Falls and Falls Prevention, and most importantly The Effectiveness of the
Barbara Fuoco-McCooley, MA, CCC-SLP, received both her undergraduate and graduate degrees from the College of New Jersey. She has been a speech-language pathologist/consultant for more than 30 years in both the public and private sector. She has worked in public and private schools as well as in her private practice. Barbara has taught at the undergraduate and graduate level in speech-language pathology and special education at the College of New Jersey, Richard Stockton College of New Jersey, Rutgers University, and in developmental English courses at Burlington County College of New Jersey. Barbara has served as a consultant to the public and private school systems to develop curriculum in meeting the child’s needs while developing their strengths and presently is working on correlating the speech-language IEP goals of students requiring related services to the Common Core Curriculum. Barbara is the owner/director of Innovative Designs for Educational Achievement, LLC in Mount Laurel, New Jersey where her practice focuses on developing skills through a strength-based approach with evidence-based practices for clients with language-related reading/math issues, memory problems, as well as those on the autism spectrum from the preschool years through young adulthood. Barbara has lectured extensively in her field of speech-language pathology, reading, and special education at a local and national level.[/toggle][/toggles]
Wendy is a graduate of Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, PA. Wendy has extensive experience working with children suffering from Developmental Delay, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Learning Disabilities, ADD/ADHD, Sensory Processing Disorder, and various other genetic and developmental disabilities. She has also completed specialized training in the areas of sensory integration, autism, developmental disabilities, cerebral palsy, seating and positioning/wheelchairs/equipment and ADD/ADHD. She uses the Interactive Metronome in her practice regularly and has seen wonderful results.[/toggle][toggle title=”Course Description”]Children with varied diagnosis and abilities all benefit from IM sessions. The issue with many children is keeping them motivated to do well for the duration of your sessions with them. A child who is not a willing participant, will not have the same positive results as one who is motivated and engaged in his/her sessions. Over the years I have developed many different ways to keep the kids “In the Zone” to the completion of their sessions. Through this poster presentation I hope to inspire your creativity for exercises and rewards. When you work with children, working “out of the box” is a daily occurrence.[/toggle][/toggles]
Mary Jane received her Bachelor’s degree from Thomas Edison State College and did graduate work at Holy Family University in Pennsylvania. She is certified as an elementary teacher and has more than 20 years classroom experience. In addition to working as a Learning Specialist, she is the co- owner and Program Director for The Cognitive Enhancement Center of Bucks County. Mary Jane is trained as a provider/facilitator for The Interactive Metronome, The Listening Program, and Fast Forward reading products. Additionally, she is trained in The Structure of Intellect theory of intelligence, SOI Cognitive Skills Assessments, the Wilson Reading method and the Orton Gillingham multisensory approach to reading.
Reid has over 25 years of broad business experience leading the successful start-up of several businesses, including being the managing partner for two successful management consulting firms. He spent a number or years with a Fortune 50 corporation as well as serving in leadership roles with an industry leading manufacturing company. He served in academia as a university business professor, teaching courses in the areas of strategy, leadership and management, and organizational behavior. Reid has years of experience in the areas of operations, finance, marketing and human resources. As a certified Business Process Kaizen facilitator, he is trained to help organizations identify operational and process inefficiencies and create solutions to provide thousands of dollars in immediate savings. He has worked with many companies large and small to help them overcome their unique challenges including, but not limited to lack of growth, limited profitability, the trials of new business start-up, hiring and managing staff, and ineffective processes and systems. In the last several years Reid has specialized in the area of healthcare, helping a variety of clinic and practice owners with the many difficult challenges they face.[/toggle]
Dana M. Merritt, MS, CCC-SLP, IMT, is a graduate of the University of South Florida and has been a Speech-Language Pathologist since 1981. She was trained as a Vision Therapist in 1996. She has gained valuable experience from teaching K – 12th grade in a home-school setting and has a strong phonics approach to learning how to read. Dana became a certified professional with Scientific Learning for Fast ForWord in March, 1997 and a certified Interactive Metronome Therapist in May, 2002. She is a member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and the Florida Speech-Language-Hearing Association (FLASHA). She specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of auditory, visual and motor processing disorders that cause delays in speech, language and learning. Dana has presented at ASHA and IM national conferences. Two of her case studies been published in Advance. She has also been nationally recognized by Scientific Learning Corporation, three times, 2008, 2009 and 2010. She has developed her own phonics program called “A Time for Phonics” that utilizes the ‘eye gates’ the ‘ear gates’ and the ‘motor gates’ concurrently in a unique and dynamic way. It is in the process of being published. In July, 2012, she published an article in Plexus:”Imitation, the Mirror Neuron System and Autism.”[/toggle][toggle title=”Course Description”]PTSD affects millions of people in the USA. It can debilitate a person so completely that he cannot work or maintain relationships. Medical treatments help modify the production of neurotransmitters. Psychological treatments can help a person learn new techniques for social interactions. But what about the reduction in size of the hippocampus as a result of sustained PTSD? What about the shearing of dendrites as a result of stress on the neurons? I believe that 15 sessions of IM drove my “motor gate” into creating greater neurogenesis of neurons in the hippocampus and greater neuroplasiticity of connecting longitudinal fibers. During this poster session, I will share my personal information with the desire that you will offer IM to others who are struggling with PTSD.[/toggle][/toggles]
