Ripple Effects: Using Reflective Practice to Enhance Therapist Effectiveness and Well-Being
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2026
3:30 PM – 5:30 PM
Course Description
Sustaining effectiveness in occupational therapy requires more than clinical skill; it requires ongoing reflection, emotional regulation, and alignment with professional purpose. Small, consistent habits can serve as powerful pivot points, creating ripple effects that influence decision-making, therapeutic presence, and overall well-being.
This interactive workshop introduces a structured reflective practice that integrates brief journaling and intentional word prompts. Participants will engage in guided exercises designed to increase awareness of thought patterns, emotional responses, and clinical decision-making processes.
The session will explore how reflective practices support nervous system regulation, enhance therapeutic relationships, and improve clinical effectiveness. Participants will learn how to implement time-efficient reflection strategies that can be integrated into daily routines without increasing workload.
Through experiential activities, discussion, and application exercises, attendees will develop a personalized reflection plan to support ongoing professional growth. This workshop provides practical tools that extend beyond the session, offering clinicians a sustainable approach to maintaining clarity, resilience, and purpose in their work.
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
Intermediate: This level assumes the audience has general familiarity with the literature and professional practice. The focus of the presentation is on increased understanding and application by the participants.
Practice Areas
Health and Wellness; Mental Health