Theory to Practice
Janel Astor, M.A. Ed.
-
Do you struggle to help the school understand what makes your child tick?
-
Do you need help advocating for your child with the school district?
-
Do you have questions or concerns about your child's IEP meeting?
Advocacy
Behavior Concerns
-
Does your child have trouble following directions or rules?
-
Does your child have extreme temper tantrums?
-
Does your child hit, kick or pinch?
-
Does your child scream or cry more than is expected?
-
Does your child stuggle in social situations?
-
Does your child have trouble making or keeping friends?
-
Does your child misinterpret social cues?
-
Do you or your child's teacher want to help, but don't know how?
Social Cognition
3.
Executive Function
-
Does your child have trouble regulating their emotions?
-
Is your child perpetually late, messy or disorganized?
-
Does your child struggle to start their homework?
-
Does your child do their homework and not turn it in?
About Me
I am not a medical practitioner, but rather a developmental specialist, relying heavily on education as well as on experience in my field. My work with children is informed by my practice(s) and includes collaboration with family, the child and teams/professionals also working with the child.
This approach differs from a medical or behavioral approach in that my goal is to understand what competencies/skill(s) may be better supported to effect change rather than only "fixing" or replacing the behavior. My work is focused on helping children and their families understand these underlying issues and developing practical advice for parents, caregivers and teachers on how to best work with the child at home or school. I like to include families in my sessions as much as possible and also provide advocacy and support for IEP's and school meetings.
I earned a B.A. in Child Development and a Master's in Special Education before getting my credential in Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE). For many years I worked with children and their families as an early interventionist becoming very knowledgeable in understanding early development, developmental delays and family systems. I also worked as a behavior and developmental specialist providing homevists for a developmental pediatrician and finally, co-founded a clinic practice with 2 other partners focused on children with social cognitive and executive function delays such as ADHD and Autism.
As a Developmental Specialist, I value collaborating with and supporting families, educators, and other professionals to identify a child’s areas of need and strength. At Theory to Practice I include the family within the therapeutic model in order to support parents in learning to observe and interpret their child’s behavior, to enrich their child’s everyday routines and activities, and to assist families in anticipating next steps.
Connecting with Me!
I'm excited to get to know you and your child.
For the best (and quickest) results, please fill out the form at the bottom of the page or send me an email at theorytopracticeportland@gmail.com to let me know your concerns.