Interactive Metronome
New Technology Helps Children with Learning and Performance.
The Interactive Metronome ® program is a computer-based training program shown to improve attention, coordination, and timing difficulties that have been linked to developmental, behavioral and learning problems.
In recent years, neurobiological research has demonstrated that changes in the brain can be affected by specific repetitive training. FMRI studies have shown that areas in the brain responsible for understanding "timing", sequencing and attention show increased activity after completion of Interactive Metronome. In turn, the changes facilitate better attention, self-management and learning.
Using headphones, along with hand and foot sensors, the IM precisely measures how closely a participant responds to computer-generated musical beats. In approximately 15 one-hour sessions, trainees progress through a series of engaging, interactive exercises to systematically improve their timing, focus and concentration and lower their IM "scores." Like training wheels on a bicycle, the guide sounds instantaneously provide feedback on the accuracy of each movement and encourage improvement.
IM training has been found to improve timing, concentration and coordination in both children and adults. It is being used to enhance academic and athletic performance as well as aid in a range of cognitive difficulties. Studies show IM performance correlates with academic achievement in areas such as mathematics, language, reading and attention to task. In a clinical study, IM training produced significant gains in children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in the areas of concentration, motor planning, control of aggression, language processing and reading. These findings are consistent with recent research on the growth of the brain that indicates that environmental influences, not just genetics, can facilitate brain development.
Launching and College Readiness Groups
LAUNCHING 101 with Sophia K. Havasy, Ph.D. and Caitlin Bailey, LPC
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For: Young Adults and Their Parents |
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Time: One and one half hours each week |
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Parents: Parents only will attend each 4th session |
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Students: |
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This group is designed to work with young adults and their parents to initiate the launching process with the completion of high school, or, to pick up the process and reactivate wherever the family is stuck. often the young people have neuroatypical developmental issues that complicate the launching pricess. We find that families need help and the young adults need a safe place to work on their issues as they tackle the adult world. |
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Each session we will work on specific target areas and the young adult will leave with homework assignments that are coordinated with the parents.
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College Readiness Group
For: High School Juniors and Seniors
Topics are:
- Self-awareness
- Strengths & weaknesses/Risk-awareness
- Stress management
- Time management
- Goals/motivations
- Expectations
- Social Scene
Time: One hour each week; Thursdays 5:00-6:00 PM;
Parents and Seniors to attend the first session together
- 5 group sessions
- Parents and Students attend the first session together
*Students new to the Center need to meet with Dr. Havasy for an Initial Evaluation prior to the group.
(Participants who are new to the practicerequire a one-hour evaluation by Dr. Havasy. The cost of this evaluation is $205).
Call the Center to reserve a space or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Group Therapy
Neurodevelopment Assessment
Our interdisciplinary staff of psychiatrists, psychologists, speech and language pathologist and educational diagnostician provide assessments of the following:
- Attentional based disorders
- Dyslexia and language related learning difficulties
- Study and organizational problems
- Non-verbal learning disabilities
- Emotional/Behavioral problems
- Written Expression problems
Most questions concerning educational or attentional issues require a Learning/Language style evaluation that consists of 5-6 hours of face to face testing administered by our Speech and Language Pathologist or our Educational Diagnostician. The evaluations are tailor-made for each individuals needs. Generally, the evaluations will provide an overview of the child's strengths and abilities while also specifically identifying any areas of difficulty. Once the evaluation is complete, the clinician will meet with you for an hour to discuss their findings and recommendations. Also, a written report will be provided.
Preschool Program
Continuing Professional Education
We are available to provide training seminars for early childhood teachers on a variety of topics including:
- Identifying atypical language, cognitive, or social/emotional development.
- Techniques for handling behavior problems in the classroom.
- Integrating a child with special needs into the classroom.
- Promoting social and emotional competence in young children.
Purpose
At the Tarnow Center, we understand that the early years in a child's life are of vital importance for a successful future. In the first three years of life, the brain rapidly develops. During this critical time, families and caregivers have an essential role in the formation of a child's brain.
When difficulties arise during the preschool years, consultation with an expert in development can be very beneficial. Many families have concerns as children transition through developmental stages. Sometimes parents need help solving typical childhood problems, such as poor eating habits, difficulty going to bed at night, or sibling rivalry. Other times, families have concerns about developmental delays or more serious emotional/behavior problems. Families sometimes need consultation regarding their child's behavior in a preschool classroom setting. In addition, as children approach the entrance to Kindergarten, many families wonder about the child's readiness and about finding an appropriate school placement. Purpose The Preschool Program at the Tarnow Center can address a variety of needs for the caregivers of young children. The length of involvement is flexible based on the needs of the child and the family.
Clinical Services
- Evaluation to identify developmental delays in motor, language, and thinking skills.
- Evaluation and treatment for Autism and other Pervasive Developmental Disorders.
- Evaluation of Kindergarten readiness and risk factors for school difficulties.
- Support for first-time parents or parents coping with a child who has a disability.
- Assistance with developmental problems such as sleeping, feeding, or frequent tantrums.
- Assistance with adjustment to family stressors, such as the arrival of new baby, divorce, change of residence, and death or illness in the family.
- Facilitating parent-child attachment relationships.
- Groups on parenting skills for young children.
- Groups for preschool children to promote social and emotional competence.
- Parent-Child Interaction Therapy for young children with behavior problems.
- Consultation in preschool settings for learning, developmental, or behavioral difficulties in the classroom.
- Treatment for Speech/Language and Learning disorders, including the Fast ForWord program.
- Treatment for young children with emotional or behavior problems including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and Separation Anxiety.
- Supporting families through a child's transition from preschool to Kindergarten
Professionals
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Psychological Services: |
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Educational Services: |
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Psychiatry Services: |