About Us!
We are small woman-owned business and a family with an autistic child. Fueled by determination, passion, and grit, our mission is to create a welcoming environment where everyone feels valued and respected, regardless of their abilities. We champion disability rights, celebrate diversity, and prioritize inclusion in everything we do.
“We understand the challenges, because we live it every day.”
Karen Jose Co-Founder, Occupational Therapist
Hello!
My name is Karen Jose, and I’m thrilled to embark on this unique journey with you. Before we get started, allow me to introduce myself and shed light on the various experiences that have influenced my perspective and shaped my approach as an occupational therapist.
With over two decades of experience as a practitioner, I’ve worked extensively in areas such as spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, dyspraxia (apraxia), stroke, ALS, pediatric physical disabilities, autism, sensory processing, and reflex integration strategies. I am certified in Primitive Reflex Integration and hold a certification as a Music Therapy Provider through Advanced Brain Technologies.
Above all, I am a parent of a 12-year-old son who is non-speaking autistic. Navigating his world has been quite the journey. From understanding his diagnosis to exploring various interventions, it’s been a complex process. Autism is like this multifaceted puzzle, and we’ve had to dive deep into learning about it. We’ve realized there’s no one-size-fits-all solution; it’s all about finding what works best for him. But every step teaches us something new about autism and how to support individuals like my son.
BTG’s Occupational Therapy program specializes in creating sensory-friendly lifestyles as well purposeful motor movement to enhance participation and independence in activities of daily living. Our services are tailored to address and develop the most suitable strategies for our neurodiverse community, one individual at a time!
Sheri Spackman
Co-Founder, Director Patient Advocacy
Hello!
My name is Sheri Spackman, founder of BTG and devoted advocate for those affected by autism. My journey began when my son was diagnosed with autism at the age of 20 months. I would never have believed at the same time; our son was also affected by dyspraxia and suspected childhood apraxia of speech.
My son is now 12-years-old and considered a “non-speaking” autistic child. During the past 11 years, I’ve immersed myself in the intricacies of autism— understanding the complexities of the non-speaking world, navigating the healthcare systems, mastering educational rights, and fighting for better resources and support. I’ve turned every challenge into an opportunity to gain knowledge and help others access the support they deserve.
While working alongside a field of experts along the way, we’ve built Bridging the Gap. BTG is a team of therapists, educators, and advocates, committed to delivering personalized solutions for other families struggling with finding the “just right” therapies for their family member(s).
My relentless drive to “leave no stone unturned” fuels my mission to create a brighter future for those touched by autism.
I’m committed to always learning, growing, and improving in everything I do. Kaizen!
Advocates, Special Education Teachers, Reading Specialists
Our advocacy team consists of special education teachers, district behaviorists (Board Certified Behavior Analyst), and members of the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA).
