Pairing Occupational Therapy with Behavior Therapy/Intervention

Both Occupational Therapy (OT) and Behavior Therapy play key roles in targeting similar skills in neurodivergent children, such as those diagnosed with Autism. OTs addresses self-care, play, school, and job skills, while Behavior therapists targets the same areas as OT in addition to behavior reduction and skill development in activities of daily living, motor movement, […]

How Can Speech and Language Pathologists (SLP) help with Behavior Therapy?

Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) and Behavior Therapy can work hand in hand and can be integral part of an Autism Therapy team. Children who struggle to learn speech and language may also be also at risk of reading and writing difficulties when they enter school. Early identification and intervention have been proven to be effective. Just […]

BRAVE Therapy Model for parents of Neurodivergent children

The BRAVE Therapy Model gives parents a strong framework to understand their child’s needs. Parents can adapt the strategies for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This adaption will ensure that they are doing the best for their child. The BRAVE model can help parents to gain the courage, resilience, and confidence. They need […]

When do neurodivergent children complete their therapy journey?

For the children attending therapy services, our goal is to achieve age-appropriate (or above!) scores on the standardized tests compared to their “typical” peers. So when so the children graduate? When do they complete their therapy journey? Standardized assessments alone do not tell the whole picture.  We should also know that if the child can […]

Clinic-based therapy for children-Benefits and Advantages

Clinic-based therapy for children has several benefits and advantages. At Symbiosis, we understand the importance of providing a nurturing and inclusive environment where children can flourish. Here are some key benefits of our clinic-based services:  Inclusive and Fun Environment: Our clinic provides a warm, cheerful, and welcoming atmosphere where children feel comfortable and supported throughout […]

Autism Therapy services from non-regulated professionals

There are several potential disadvantages of receiving Autism Therapy services from non-regulated professions in British Columbia(BC) includes: Lack of Standards: Non-regulated professionals may not have established standards for education, training, or ethical conduct. This can lead to inconsistencies in the quality of services provided and may increase the risk of harm to children. Lack of […]

Supporting our families through Virtual Therapy services

Symbiosis is now offering virtual therapy services via Telehealth to our new and existing patients that need our support in British Columbia. Seeking out traditional therapy options can be very frustrating. Finding a Autism Service provider in a remote or rural area that is accepting neurodivergent children and has open appointments is often a complex […]

Early Intervention Program for Infants and Young Children with Autism – EIPIC Program

Early Intervention Program for Infants and Young Children (EIPIC) program is specially designed for children from 18 months to 6 years old, diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and/or other developmental disabilities. Our EIPIC includes an individualized program for your child using the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM). The program is delivered through a multi-disciplinary team of […]

Why Multi-disciplinary assessment or Intervention is better in Autism?

Multi-disciplinary assessment is an assessment carried out by different professionals in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder is always better than conducted by one specific discipline. This is why multi-disciplinary assessment or intervention is better in autism treatment. In a multi-disciplinary team, each person carrying out the assessment will have different areas of expertise. For example, […]

Shalini Das

Director, Board Certified Behavior Analyst,Occupational Therapist

Shalini is one of the co-founders of Symbiosis Pediatric Therapy. She currently oversees the clinical and administrative departments of Symbiosis. Shalini has more than 25 years of experience working with children with autism and developmental disabilities.

Shalini completed her Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy specializing in Pediatric Neurology in 2000. She also has her Masters degree in Special Education with a focus on Applied Behavior Analysis from The Pennsylvania State University.Shalini is listed in the RASP list as a Behavior Consultant and an Occupational Therapist.

Shalini has extensive clinical experience with assessment and program development that is designed to treat challenging behaviors, build communication, and functional life skills. Some of the team-based intervention which she incorporates are the Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA), Early Start Denver Model (ESDM), SCERTS, DIR®/Floor time model, etc.

Shalini has trained & supervised several teams of therapists, parents, and other professionals on evidence-based behavioral strategies to improve the quality of life for the children. She also assists with the development and implementation of evidence-based treatment approaches, in addition to providing clinical guidance and mentorship to the Behavioral intervention team.

Shalini is certified to administer the Sensory Integration and Praxis Test (SIPT) from the University of Southern California and in Neuro-Developmental Therapy (NDT) from NDT Association, USA. She also enjoys working with children in Symbiosis embracing different therapy models while viewing the challenges faced by the children through the developmental framework.

Shalini is the mother of two children and understands the importance of considering the needs and wants of all members of the family when establishing therapy goals. She spends her spare time with her children and husband, reading, traveling, and cooking different recipes from around the world.