Developing Clinical Mastery in Pediatric Therapy: A Systems-Based Approach Across Diagnoses
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2026
11:15 AM – 12:15 PM
Course Description
Pediatric occupational therapists are often expected to address a wide range of diagnoses, ages, and functional challenges, yet many report feeling underprepared to integrate the complexity of sensory, motor, and regulatory needs into cohesive clinical decision-making.
This session explores the development of clinical mastery in pediatric therapy as a long-term, systems-based process rather than a collection of isolated techniques. Participants will examine how foundational knowledge in movement, sensory processing, and regulation must be integrated over time to support effective intervention across diverse clinical presentations.
Drawing from principles of Dynamic Systems Theory, Ayres Sensory Integration, and Contemporary NDT this session will present a developmental framework for clinical reasoning that emphasizes pattern recognition, systems interaction, and adaptability.
Participants will explore common gaps in traditional continuing education models and identify key components necessary for building depth and confidence in pediatric practice. Practical strategies will be provided to help clinicians organize their learning, integrate multiple approaches, and progress toward greater clinical fluency. This session offers a structured perspective on how pediatric therapists can move beyond technique-based practice toward a more cohesive, adaptable, and effective approach to intervention across ages and diagnoses.
Speakers
Bonnie Boenig, MEd, OT/L, C/NDT is an occupational therapist with over 40 years of clinical, leadership, and educational experience specializing in pediatric therapy, neurodevelopmental treatment, and integrative systems-based care. She is the founder of Wavecrest Pediatric Therapy, where she delivers advanced intensive therapy models integrating sensory, motor, and regulatory systems, and the founder of Wavecrest Academy, a developing educational initiative designed to help therapists build advanced clinical reasoning and progress toward mastery in pediatric practice. Her career has included leadership roles at Achievement Centers for Children, where she served as Director and Vice President, as well as clinical and ownership positions at Lifeworks of Southwest General, Boenig & Associates Therapy Services, and Boenig Workshops & Consultants.
A nationally recognized educator and speaker, Bonnie has presented extensively at the regional, national, and international levels on neurodevelopmental treatment, sensory integration, systems interaction, and integrative pediatric therapy. She is certified in Neurodevelopmental Treatment and is an NDT Instructor, with advanced training in myofascial release, craniosacral therapy, visceral manipulation, the TheraSuit Method, and neuromuscular electrical stimulation. Her professional service includes serving as Vice President of the Ohio Occupational Therapy Association, board and committee leadership roles with OOTA and the NDTA, and membership on the Complex Care Committee of the American Academy for Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine. She has authored numerous articles for the NDTA Network and Cerebral Palsy Magazine. Bonnie holds a Master of Education in Moderate and Severe Disabilities from Cleveland State University and a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy from Quinnipiac College.
Presentation slides – click here to access/download
Content Level
Advanced: This level focuses on recent advances, future directions and practical application of research.
Practice Areas
Children and Youth; Emerging Practice Area