Dani Richman - Lead Consultant (London)

After studying Early Childhood and Education in 2003 and working in mainstream settings, I had an encounter working with an undiagnosed young child. This is where my career working with children with special needs began. I have worked with a wide range of children and young people with complex needs. Since 2007, I have worked with autistic children for an early years intervention programme which predominately takes place with the parent/carer in their home environment. I work very closely with families, other specialists, nurseries and schools to build a tailor made programme incorporating IEP targets and SCERTS. I studied Person Centered Counselling in 2006, which enables me to provide emotional support, which I feel is as important, as well as practical advice. As well as home support, I have many years of providing support and training in nurseries and schools using a range of strategies to meet the needs of individual children (mainstream, resource provisions and special schools). I am PECS trained and use a number of different approaches including TEACCH and intensive interaction. I am able to support families and SENCO's with the statementing process, as well as liaising with a range of other professionals to support with paperwork including DLA. In addition to working with autistic children, I also have experience working with children with emotional and behavioural difficulties. There are two aspects of working with children with ASC which are of upmost important to me. The first is understanding and being in tune with the child. The second is providing support, whether this is emotional or practical. As a mother of two young children myself, working with families is a privilege for me. I believe in working in a partnership with families and having open communication to gain the best results.
 
If you would like more information, please contact me on dani4past@gmail.com