Then, after my daughter scalded herself in the shower badly and told me the hot water felt good, I knew something was really going on.  She doesn’t feel pain!  That would explain why she has never once cried during a shot or catheter and could not sit still for first aid and a bandage.  This can’t be “fine”.

I started endlessly researching the internet for answers.  I spent countless hours on-line reaching out to behavioral coaches, therapists, and anyone who would answer my questions.  I finally was pointed in the direction of Sensory Processing Sensory Integration by Kirk Martin at Celebrate Calm.  After researching SPD as he suggested I thought, “This is it!” 

I conferred with our last behavioral therapist and she was in agreement.  So what now?  I was told Occupational Therapy would help.  More time and more research spent to find an OT in the area.  They are not easy to find!        

My prayers were answered when we found Serena!  My daughter has been working with Serena for four months or so.  The difference my child is like night and day!  Her confidence is building daily.  She started sleeping through the night almost immediately!  Her level of coordination has grown by leaps and bounds.  She is no longer the aggressive child at play hurting the other children by knocking them over.  She can run and play without falling down all the time.  And in the last month she has started to feel pain.  I think was one of the very few mothers who was grateful to see her child feel pain!  She no longer risks jumping from extreme heights and putting herself in danger.  I no longer brace myself when I hear her running up behind me because I know she’s not going to crash into me.  She is maturing and it has nothing to do with her age.  It is all because of the OT and a sensory diet.

Serena’s training and background gives her a wonderful insight into Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD).  Not only has Serena given my child wonderful care and the tools she needs to make it through the day, but she has helped me to reach a better understanding of what is going on in my child’s brain.  There is a neurological issue going on.  The best news is that because we caught it early it can be reversed!  Serena has been there every step of the way in helping me learn what I need to do to meet my daughter’s sensory needs.  She gives me guidance on the latest research and publications.  She also gives me encouragement and sees the wonderful things in my daughter as I see them.  Serena has opened my eyes to a whole new way of viewing my daughter’s world.  Her genuine compassion and desire for my daughter’s well being shines through in her willingness to talk to teachers or others who need to understand SPD and the outward behaviors that result from the inner problems.

Thank you, Serena.  You are truly one of God’s angels sent to heal the children!

K.B.   in Santa Barbara, CA.