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Heather Simpson graduated with a B.S. in Exercise and Sport Science with a minor in Early Education from the University of Florida in 2007. Following her Bachelor’s degree, Heather received a Master’s in Occupational Therapy, in 2009, from the University of Florida. Since completion of graduate school, she has worked in a variety of settings including outpatient neurology, inpatient physical rehabilitation and pediatric rehab. Currently, Heather splits her time between Shands Rehab at UF Center for Movement Disorders and Neurorestoration and Shands Rehab for Kids at Magnolia Parke.
Heather provides occupational therapy evaluations and treatment for patients seen in the Ataxia clinic and Muscular Dystrophy clinics. She also evaluates and treats a variety of other movement disorders diagnoses including Parkinson’s, Parkinsonisms, Dystonia, Essential Tremor and Tics/Tourette’s Syndrome.
Heather has received specialized training for LSVT BIG ® and Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT).
Learning that your child has been diagnosed with autism or a related disability can be overwhelming. To help caregivers get a better understanding of ASD, as well as available supports and services, UF Health CAN offers an optional caregiver consultation following the diagnostic assessment feedback appointment. The feedback appointment is generally…
The UF Health CAN Steering Committee has recently approved for funding two new exciting pilot projects involving research in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Tandem Repeat Expansion Pathomechanisms in Autism Spectrum Disorder Maurice S. Swanson, Ph.D. Principal Investigator Disparities in…
Take a Tour of the CAN Center Courtesy of Colliers International GNV Commercial Advisory Team…
UF CARD is offering a free parent training program to parents of children 2-14 years of age with autism spectrum disorder or related disabilities. This parent training program consists of 6 sequential sessions designed to teach parents ways to reduce disruptive behaviors.DATES/TIMES: Thursdays from 4-5:30pm Sep 17, 2020…
Returning to school during COVID-19 can present many challenges for students living with ASD. There are many resources out there to support students with this difficult transition, including social stories. Social stories are available for all ages, discussing a multitude of topics, from hand washing, riding the bus to…
UF Health Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment (CAN) Research Pilot Project Grants…
By Cassidy Hopson Moving away from home to attend college is a big lifestyle change for every young adult. But, for those with autism, this change can be particularly challenging. The intensity of college courses combined with increased responsibilities can be a difficult adjustment for new college students with ASD.
Online Professional Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorder » College of Medicine » University of Florida The University of Florida College of Medicine’s online Graduate Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can be completed in as little as one year. Position yourself for success with specialized training in recognizing…
By Cassidy Hopson Summer is characterized by longer days, warm weather and more free time. This makes it the perfect opportunity for those with special needs to try new activities that can help strengthen their skills. Below are 5 summer activities great for both children and adults with autism spectrum…
Early research has shown that those living with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD) have an increased likelihood of contracting the virus. In addition, this research indicates that adults with IDD are more likely to die from contracting the virus. Although the research is preliminary and the exact mechanism is…
