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Theory to Practice

Janel Astor, M.A. Ed.

Behavior and Developmental therapies

About Me

  I am not a medical practitioner, but rather an expert with a focus on development, children and families, (what is a developmetnal specialist?) relying heavily on education as well as on experience (over 30 years!) 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.

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  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 as an early interventionist becoming very knowledgeable in understanding early development, developmental delays and family systems. I also worked as a behavior and development specialist, providing homevists for a developmental pediatrician and finally, co-founded a clinical practice with 2 other partners focused on children with social cognitive and executive function delays such as ADHD and Autism.

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  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. â€‹Although I started my career as an early interventionist, for the past 15 years I have worked almost exclusively with children with ADHD, executive function and behavioral differences and Level 1 Autism. Many also need support for expected behaviors at home and school, so emotional regulation is embedded throughout, whether the child is seen in a group or individual session.

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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. 

Janel can be reached at 650-483-8105

  • 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?

  • Do you have questions/concerns about your child's current placement?

  • Do you need referral for a clinical diagnosis?

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 engage in self injurious behavior?

  • Does your child scream or cry more than is expected?

  • Does your child struggle to express their wants or needs?

  • Does your child stuggle in social situations?

  • Does your child have trouble making or keeping friends?

  • Does your child misinterpret social cues?

  • Does your child play with toys or peers appropriately?

  • Does your child take turns during play?

  • 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?

  • Does your child understand the passage of time?

  • Does your child have trouble with flexibility, i.e. transtions, changes in plans


Common Themes I Address in My Work

Contact
Therapy Sessions
Anchor 1
Janel is one of the few people in my son's life who truly 'gets him'. She has amazing insights into his strengths and challenges and has helped him to recognize what a great kid he is, and how to negotiate what often seems like a difficult world. In addition, her help in advocating for him with the school system has been invaluable, and has ensured that he has had the services he needs 

Kimberley F. - parent

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