Strengthening Community Partnerships Through the Treffert Approach

by SSM Health Treffert Center

Angie Fellenz, board-certified assistant analyst at SSM Health Treffert Center Autism Services, was recently welcomed to provide professional development to the educational team at Christian Community Childcare Center in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. This presentation invited attendees to explore the potential of the human mind, focusing on strengths rather than limitations when supporting children and helping them learn.

The opportunity to continue to preserve, make available, and expand upon the legacy of Dr. Darold Treffert by partnering with our larger community is an honor and a privilege for our Autism Services team members. This presentation aimed to equip staff members with knowledge of neurodiversity and information on sensory processing differences that many individuals face. The interactive presentation took teachers through classroom strategies to maximize learning potential for all children, utilizing the Treffert Approach.

The Treffert Approach emphasizes the importance of recognizing and cultivating the unique strengths and abilities of everyone. Dr. Treffert saw children as our "fresh, new explorers, " and believed in providing them with a positive environment that encourages their natural curiosity and creativity. His approach, now carried forward in the work of the larger Treffert team, focuses on nurturing the whole person and helping individuals reach their full potential.

Meg Puddy, director of behavioral health/community services, stated "We know that the best outcomes occur when we invest in relationships with clients, team members, and community partners and when we listen, learn, and work together to achieve shared goals. We are proud of the relationships Angie has developed with our community partners in the Fox Valley and the work she does to share the benefits of the Treffert Approach with our larger community. "

The Autism Services team is honored to offer the Treffert Approach in providing high-quality, relationship-based behavioral treatment services across eight counties in Wisconsin. Our team offers services where the child is, including homes, childcare centers, schools, clinics, and community-based activities. Additional services available include caregiver collaboration, school consultation, educational workshops, community trainings, and web-based consultation for families and community partners.

Learn more about SSM Health Treffert Center Autism Services.

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