Dr. Donna Moscicki, School Program Director
Nathan Zelesnikar – Director of Programs and Services, Article 16 Clinic
The Health Office
Our two full-time Reigstered Nurses and one full-time Licensed Pracital Nurse maintain regular contact with many families, physicians and instructors to monitor a student’s or adult’s health issues; work closely with teachers and clinicians to provide optimum care and learning readiness; monitor and provide medication to individuals and provide emotional support as needed. Screenings for hearing, vision and scoliosis are performed annually, using specialized equipment for students with communication issues. Our Community Classroom also has one Licensed Practical Nurse that is assigned to work with those in that program.
Music Therapy
Music Therapy is an IEP-based related service for students who require music to fully benefit from their educational programming. Our board-certified music therapists utilize evidence-based music interventions to address social/emotional, academic, communication, cognitive and physical goal areas, and provide both individual and group services. Using the Special Education Music Therapy Assessment Process (SEMTAP), a music therapist determines if a student qualifies for music therapy services based on a measurable improvement when music is applied to IEP goal areas. Sessions may include movement, singing, songwriting, instrument playing/learning, and listening. Music is a motivating, multi-sensory medium that supports non-verbal communication and stimulates the whole-brain.
Speech Language Therapy
The Speech Pathologist introduces various exercises, activities, and assistive technologies to improve an individual’s communication skills, enhance their quality of life, and promote independence. Services in this area focus on addressing communication challenges related to social interactions, vocational activities, and daily living tasks. The Speech Pathologist provides support and guidance to an adult, as well as to their families and/or staff, to enhance communication at home, work, and in the community. Support is also provided in the areas of swallowing and/or feeding difficulties, hearing loss, and the use of basic sign language. This service does require a prescription from a PCP.
Occupational Therapy
Occupational Therapists work directly with students both in and out of the classrooms.
They are part of the classroom teaching team and work closely with teachers to provide a wellrounded program. Therapists provide ideas for comprehension, visual supports and multi-sensory strategies to enhance the lessons. Therapists work with older students on job skills both within the Agency and off-site at area companies and organizations.
Occupational Therapists also work with the adults at Holy Childhood. Services are provided based on identified needs.
Counseling
Counseling supports through the clinic provide individual and group counseling to people assisting them with dealing with emotional responses, personal challenges, and overall processing their feelings. Some of the topics include interpersonal skills, anger management, relaxation techniques, coping skills, dealing with loss and grief, anxiety and depression, social functioning, identity, and daily stressors.
Groups Offered
We offer a Healthy Relationship group to assist both internal and external people supported in how to recognize healthy relationships and have healthy boundaries at work and in the community. It is a 15-week group (1 hour/week) led by our Social Worker, our Occupational Therapist, and input from people supported. The group curriculum followed is from Katherine McLaughlin, M.Ed., CSE ‘s training on Sexuality Education for People with Disabilities. We are currently in the process of formulating a Grief and Loss group to assist individuals who have lost someone share their experiences and cope with grief. This group will offer guidance, companionship, and learning opportunities for those who are grieving.
Article 16 Clinic
Holy Childhood’s Article 16 Clinic is devoted to fostering a nurturing and empathic atmosphere for the people supported in this service. Our team delivers an extensive arrangement of clinical services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
- Social Work/Counseling
- Occupational Therapy
- Speech Therapy
- Psychological Evaluations including: Guardianship, Capacity and Sexual Consent Determinations
Holy Childhood’s Article 16 Clinic is certified by the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD)
For more information or to schedule a tour of Holy Childhood’s facilities contact us by calling (585) 359-3710.