Anticipating a big, out of state move from the Chicago-area to her home state of Michigan with her family, one of Stefanie Maiuri’s largest priorities was to find a strengths-based, play-based therapy center for her autistic son, Dominic. Building a strong support team was critical for their family’s significant life transition and she was determined to find the right fit. After landing on the International Council on Development and Learning (ICDL) provider list, Stefanie located Therapy Spot and contacted owner, Jessica Ravineala, to learn more about her DIRFloortime® approach.

Jessica’s curiosity was piqued; a therapist for many years, she had never experienced a parent requesting a face-to-face meeting. During that initial Zoom meeting, Jessica quickly learned of Stefanie’s deep convictions in child-led, neuro-affirming values.

Very quickly Jessica’s child-led therapy sessions gained momentum and Dominic began taking off rapidly. Stefanie and Jessica formed a strong relationship and a shared passion around neurodiversity. After six months of connecting in Dominic’s therapy sessions, it was clear this invested mom and skilled therapist were dreaming up something much larger than their working relationship supporting Dominic.

Stefanie and Jessica both believe there is a lack of strengths-based early childhood educational settings in the metro Detroit area. Additionally, they acknowledge the many limitations of our existing educational system and even more disadvantages it has for neurodivergent children. Together they wanted to bring this child-centered, neurodiversity affirming approach to the community in a school setting. And with their convictions and shared values, Bridges Development Center was born.

Bridges Development Center is rooted in its mission to support young learners and their families with the skills, tools, and strategies to allow for improved participation within their homes, schools, and community.

As the neurodiversity movement continues to gain momentum, Stefanie and Jessica are hopeful and inspired. They are driven to lead a much needed paradigm shift through supporting neurodivergent children, developing parents, and equipping the community at large. They believe that embracing the uniqueness and individuality of all children creates a beautiful and diverse community for all.