Joleen R Fernald Pediatric Therapy Services

Empowering children to share who they are with the world around them.
Child participating in neurodiversity-affirming speech therapy in Tampa Bay, FL
We are a neurodiversity-affirming speech and occupational therapy practice serving children and families in the Tampa Bay, FL area.

Our team specializes in using the DIRFloortime® model to support regulation and communication. We celebrate each child’s differences, build upon their strengths, and work to improve their overall wellbeing in every session.

We also encourage parents to get involved every step of the way! Let’s work together to help your child thrive.

Selective Mutism:
We provide a low-stress environment for children with Selective Mutism, allowing them to feel safe and comfortable. Our sessions are guided by your child's interests and play preferences while also incorporating regulation tools like swings and trampolines.
Through a combination of play and the DIR® Selective Mutism Model, we will help your child:
Build self-esteem
Comfortably use their voice across all environments and with a variety of people
Advocate for themselves

Speech Sound Disorders:
We make speech therapy fun by integrating sound practice into play! Whether playing a game or practicing speech sounds on a swing, we build repetition into motivating activities to support learning.
Using evidence-based approaches, we will help your child:
Speak more clearly
Gain confidence in their speech
Communicate effectively with other children and adults (using speech and/or an AAC device)

Autism:
Rather than focusing on your child's diagnosis, we will look at their unique profile and abilities. Our sessions incorporate sensory play and movement-based activities to support communication in a natural and meaningful way.
Using the DIRFloortime® framework, we will follow your child's lead to help them:
Communicate with gestures, spoken words, or a speech generating device (AAC)
Authentically interact with others
Build confidence and autonomy

Language Disorders:
In language therapy, we will follow your child's lead and help them express themselves in play while prioritizing regulation, engagement, and purposeful communication— without drills or flashcards!
Your child’s language goals will be embedded into interactive experiences, helping them:
Improve their grammar, comprehension, and conversation skills
Successfully share about their experiences
Gain confidence in social engagement