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Early Intervention Team

The staff at Infant & Toddler Connection of Shenandoah Valley is a diverse, multidisciplinary team of licensed professionals. Each member of the team has experience helping children with a wide variety of developmental diagnoses. We also understand that the most important part of a child’s development is
their family and we know how our staff can play a supporting role.

Our success comes from a deep commitment we all share towards improving the welfare of children. Our team is made up of mothers, fathers, teachers and doctors who understand the issue both personally and professionally. Whatever a child’s diagnoses, we can provide all of the resources needed to aid in their development.

Sharlene Stowers

Director of Early Intervention, Local System Manager ITC-SV

Angela Craig

Service Coordinator/ Developmental Specialist

Beth Ancell

Developmental Specialist

Cammy Pifer

Service Coordinator

Carrie Coughenour

Speech/Language Pathologist

Emma Everson

Occupational Therapist

Gena Zydelis

Senior Service Coordinator

Jacquelyne “Jacqui” Washington

Service Coordinator & Developmental Specialist

Jennifer Hillyard

Service Coordinator 

Jennifer Mantz

Occupational Therapist

Kaitlyn Poole

Service Coordinator

Kylie Zoller

BCBA/ Developmental Specialist

Maria Lopez

Service Coordinator

Megan Mahon

Service Coordinator

Michele Windle

Speech Language Pathologist

Rebecca Comstock

Service Coordinator

Samantha Dingwell

Administrative Assistant II

Sarah Bosworth

Physical Therapist

Susan Anderson

Speech Language Pathologist

Suzanne Racer

Occupational Therapist

Zandalee Daugherty

Developmental Specialist

Sharlene Stowers

Director of Early Intervention, Local System Manager ITC-SV

Q: How many years have you been working at Grafton?
A:  I don’t have enough fingers and toes to count!
A: I was inspired to work with special needs children after babysitting a child who was born with a cleft palate. This led me to complete a degree in Speech Pathology and Audiology at West Virginia University in 1986. I started my career with Grafton in 1987 and knew this would be my career home. Throughout the years Grafton has given me many opportunities to grow by providing me the opportunity to complete a Masters in Organizational Leadership and explore various leadership opportunities within the organization.
A: Early Intervention is important because a child’s brain develops most rapidly in the first few years of life. This is our window of opportunity to have the greatest impact on a child’s development while supporting and educating the family at the same time.
A: Words cannot capture what my EI Team means to me. They represent strength, compassion, kindness, integrity, and fun. They inspire me everyday to do my best for them.
A: This team is unique because of the number of years they have worked together. They have found their home in early intervention and have become experts in their fields over years. They are kind, caring, compassionate, and SMART!
A:  Accessible, Child-Family Driven, Caring
A: “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” –  Maya Angelou

Angela Craig

Service Coordinator/ Developmental Specialist

Q: How many years have you been working at Grafton?

A: 3+ Years

A: After earning my degree in Human Development from Pennsylvania State University, I began my career in social services, where I gained hands-on experience supporting children and families. This work gave me a deep appreciation for the critical role early intervention plays in shaping positive developmental outcomes.

Over the years, I’ve combined my background in human development with strong communication and relationship-building skills, working closely with educators, caregivers, and service providers to connect them with the tools and resources needed to support young children’s growth.

A: An Early Intervention Service Coordinator serves as the primary point of contact for families with infants and toddlers (birth to age 3) who have developmental delays or disabilities. They guide families through the early intervention process, explaining their rights and the services available to them. The coordinator arranges and oversees evaluations and assessments, then works with the family and service providers to develop an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP). They schedule and coordinate services such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, or developmental support, monitor the child’s progress, and connect families with community resources to ensure they have the tools needed to help their child thrive.

A: I want future and current families to know that I am here as a partner and advocate for them throughout their early intervention journey. I believe in listening first, understanding your child’s unique strengths, challenges, and the hopes you have for their future. My goal is to make the process feel supportive, not overwhelming, by helping you navigate services, connecting you with resources, and celebrating every milestone along the way. Above all, I want you to know that your voice matters, your insights are valued, and together we can create the best possible start for your child.

A: To me, the early intervention team represents a network of dedicated professionals working in partnership with families to create the best possible start for a child’s life. It’s a team built on trust, collaboration, and the shared goal of supporting each child’s unique potential.

A: Being connected to Grafton means being part of a mission-driven team that believes in possibilities and works every day to help people achieve them.

A: I focus on creating a comfortable space where families feel heard, respected, and supported.

A: What I enjoy most about my role is building genuine connections with families and being part of their journey as they support their child’s growth. I love seeing the progress—both big and small—that comes from consistent care and collaboration.

A: Empowering, Genuine, Life-Changing

A: What makes me proud to work at Grafton is their unwavering commitment to treating every individual with dignity, respect, and compassion.

A: Outside of work, I truly enjoy spending quality time with my family—it’s where I find my greatest joy and balance. Being outdoors recharges me, whether it’s a walk in nature or gardening, which bring a sense of calm and connection.

A: I enjoy spending time with family, creating and enjoying art, exploring the outdoors, and caring for plants.

A: “Let your calm be their calm.”

By staying composed and centered, especially in challenging moments, we create a sense of safety and trust

Beth Ancell

Developmental Specialist

Q: How many years have you been working at Grafton?

A: 8+ Years

A: I graduated from James Madison University with a degree in Early Childhood Education in 1995. I spent 12 years in the public school setting, as a classroom teacher. My family served as a foster family/respite provider to 13 children and are adoptive parents. My first experience with early intervention was over 17 years ago when my son received services. From that experience, I learned the importance of early intervention in the life of a young child.

A: Part of my job is to assess young children, from birth to age three, for developmental delays and then help to create an individualized plan to improve their cognitive, physical, communication, and social-emotional skills. During visits, I work closely with families, to provide strategies and support to create an optimal learning environment in their home, using a coaching model.

A: Early intervention is important because it builds a strong foundation for a child’s future, maximizing developmental potential during the brain’s most critical growth period, leading to better long-term outcomes in health, education, and social-emotional well-being. We empower families by providing support and resources to help their child and family succeed. I tell my families all the time that development is a ladder, and we are looking at each child’s next step on the ladder in the progression of their development.

A: I truly care about each of the children and families that I work with. You are the expert on your child. There is never a silly question or concern. If I don’t have the answer, we will work together to try to find the answer.

A: Individualized, Supportive, Positive

A: I enjoy spending time with my family. I love traveling and especially love the beach. I am actively involved with my church and its ministries. I am on the board of the Life Center of Page County and the Page County Department of Social Services Advisory Board.

A: My favorite week of the year is spending the week after Christmas at the beach in the Outer Banks with all my family –  husband, kids, sisters, nieces, nephews. There are around 20-25 of us and adding more every year. I enjoy the family time and will sit on the beach in my winter coat, scarf, hat, and boots (it’s never too cold to enjoy the ocean).

Cammy Pifer

Service Coordinator

Q: How many years have you been working at Grafton?

A: 18+ Years

A: I was a full-time employee of Grafton and full-time college student. Shortly after I received my degree (Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice Administration), Grafton took on the Early Intervention program, and I was encouraged to apply for the Service Coordinator position, as I was always interested in becoming a Case Manager within the organization. 

A: I help guide my families through the early intervention process. I coordinate evaluations, facilitate the development and review of the IFSP and ensure timely delivery of services. I support families by providing resources and assisting with transition out of the program.

A: We are a tight-knit group that supports each other in challenges and successes that we face both professionally and personally. We support each like a family, and we all genuinely care about the families that we serve.

A: That I am here to support you in every step of the process. I’ll listen and advocate for you and your child. I will make sure that your child gets the services that they need and deserve.

A: Open, honest and supportive. I listen without judgement and will communicate in clear, simple terms.

A: Supportive, Flexible, Compassionate

A: I believe in Grafton’s mission statement. I believe that we have a supportive and passionate team of people (from the CEO to the direct support staff) that work together to make a difference in the lives that we serve.

A: I have red hair and blue eyes, which is a rare combination due to recessive genes I received from both of my parents. Only about 1% or less of the American population have this rare combination.

A: “In a world where you can be anything, be kind”

Carrie Coughenour

Speech/Language Pathologist

Q: How many years have you been working at Grafton?

A: 9+ Years

A: I graduated with my bachelor’s degree in communication science Disorders from Geneva College in 1998. I graduated from the University of Virginia with my Master of Education in Speech Language Pathology in 2008. I then earned my Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC). I worked as an SLP in the school system from 2006 until 2016. I worked PRN with the Infant and Toddler Connection while I was still in the school system. I became a full time Grafton SLP with the Early Intervention Program in 2016. 

A: As a speech-language pathologist I assess, diagnose, and provide treatment for communication disorders, focusing on developing speech, language, and social communication skills. Key responsibilities include educating parents and caregivers, creating home-based intervention programs, collaborating with other professionals, and documenting progress to empower families and maximize a child’s long-term development.

A: Early Intervention is important because we start working with children and their families in the early years when children are learning the most. We coach parents on how to be daily therapists for their children.

A: We are a supportive group of people that are knowledgeable in our fields. We are passionate about what we do and we love to teach parents how to help their children reach their potential.

A: If you have any concerns, have them checked out. You know your child better than anyone else. Getting support early makes a world of difference.

A: Individualized, Flexible, Convenient

A: Cooking, Baking, and Crocheting

Emma Everson

Occupational Therapist

Q: How many years have you been working at Grafton?

A: I have been with Grafton for over 7 years.

A: I received my masters of Occupational therapy from Shenandoah University in 2017. I wanted to become an OT to be able to help the whole person, when focusing on their care. I have always had a connection with kids and love using it everyday with the families we work with.

A: Each day can be a little different for an OT with Grafton. Our main priority is to help our clients (ages birth to 3) meet their family-led goals. We go into the homes or communities of our clients to help coach the families on how to best help their child meet their milestones.

A: Early Intervention helps provide services early in life in a comfortable environment to help children and families thrive.

A: EVERYTHING!! Our EI team is supportive of one another in work and life.

A: If you ever have questions or doubts about your child’s development you should seek help! We can provide reassurance or help when needed.

A: Hard working, Flexible, Passionate

A: The difference we make within our community

A: Gardening, playing with my kids, and baking

A: I remodeled my childhood home and now get to raise my babies where I grew up.

 

Gena Zydelis

Senior Services Coordinator

Q: How many years have you been working at Grafton?

A: 15+ Years

A: In 1986, my daughter Megan was born at 26 weeks gestation and developed severe Cerebral Palsy. She needed early intervention services that were a struggle to get at that time. Megan passed away at 22 months and then in 1991 I came to work for EI, feeling that my experience as an EI parent could benefit others. While I am certified as an EI service coordinator, my credentials will always be MOM!

A: When new referrals come in, I process them in the record system. I then contact the family to let them know the referral was made and explain what EI is. I meet with the family to complete an intake to talk with them about medical and developmental concerns they have for their child, review the next steps and answer any questions. I review and give a copy of their rights and safeguards (very important!) and then schedule a developmental assessment. After that, for me, each day it is all about getting the documentation done! And, because EI services are provided in the home, travel is a huge part of every day, often going well over 100 miles per day!

A: Early intervention makes a difference in the lives of the child and the family. To be told that the child you adore has a developmental concern is scary. EI comes to a place where the family is comfortable (home) and asks what is important to them, how we can help. We do not come in to tell the family what is wrong and what weare going to do. Families are equal partners in developing plans to address their priorities and concerns for their child.

A: Helping families help their child!

A: Calling does not commit a family to anything! Meeting with me for intake does not commit them to anything! Even having an assessment does not commit them to anything! Each next step is only with parent consent. So, just call me! I can answer questions, and we can talk about the process. Then, they can decide!

A: I enjoy growing flowers, baking, looking at antiques (not necessarily buying!), and helping with the kid’s choir at church.

A: Everything is fixable!

Jacquelyne "Jacqui" Washington

Service Coordinator & Developmental Specialist

Q: How many years have you been working at Grafton?

A: I have worked at Grafton/Infant Toddler Connection for over 3 years.

A: I grew up living in the New River Valley, and later moved to the Shenandoah Valley, where the influence of my family and friends deeply shaped who I am today. With a mom who was an owner and operator of a daycare, a passion for working with children has been a part of my life from an early age. This early exposure sparked my enduring interest in teaching and caring for children, fueling my commitment to nurturing and supporting young learners.

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Family & Child Development and a Master’s in Human Services from Liberty University. With a strong foundation in Family & Consumer Sciences and Human Services, I am a certified member of the American Association of Family & Consumer Sciences (AAFCS).

I bring over a decade of experience working with children and families, including eight years as a preschool teacher, where I developed a deep understanding of early childhood development and the importance of building strong foundations in the early years. Currently, I serve as an Early Intervention Specialist, providing both Service Coordination and Developmental Services to young children and their families.

More specifically, my previous work in Special Education at a California-based charter school sparked a passion for supporting children with neurodiverse needs. That experience, combined with my early childhood background, continues to shape my approach to intervention—one that is compassionate, inclusive, and focused on empowering families as they navigate the challenges that often accompany developmental delays and diagnoses.

A: As a Service Coordinator, I work directly with families to support their child’s development through early intervention services. My role involves guiding families through the process of developing an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) when their child qualifies for services, and ensuring that the plan reflects their unique goals, strengths, and needs. I maintain regular contact with families to monitor progress, coordinate services, and adjust supports as needed. A key focus of my work is empowering parents—helping them understand their rights, navigate available resources, and become strong, informed advocates for their child both within and beyond the early intervention system.

As a Developmental Specialist, I work closely with families in natural environments to implement strategies that promote a child’s growth across key developmental domains, such as communication, motor skills, cognition, social-emotional development, and adaptive functioning. My role includes conducting developmental assessments, collaborating on the creation and implementation of Individualized Family Service Plans (IFSPs), and coaching caregivers to integrate learning opportunities into daily routines. I partner with families to build their confidence and capacity, ensuring they feel supported and empowered in their child’s developmental journey.

A: What I find most rewarding in this role is supporting families—helping them feel empowered, confident, and capable as advocates for their child. By coaching caregivers and embedding learning into daily routines, I enjoy seeing the strength that’s built between the child’s development and the family’s sense of confidence and connection throughout their early intervention journey.

A: Outside of work, I enjoy being actively involved in my local church through outreach, special events, and programs like Vacation Bible School. I’m also on a dance team, which keeps things fun and active. For fun and relaxation, I love taking walks, relieving stress on a bike ride, journaling, and unwinding with paint nights or puzzles. I also enjoy spending time outdoors at the beach or lake with family, and connecting with friends over game nights filled with cards and board games. Outside of work, I’m also a dedicated football fan and enjoy cheering on the Commanders during football season!

A: The three things that mean the most to me are my faith, my family, and my friends. God is the foundation of my life, providing guidance, strength, and purpose. My family is my greatest support system, offering unconditional love and a sense of belonging. Friends bring joy, companionship, and shared experiences that enrich my life and help me grow. Together, these three pillars shape who I am and give my life meaning.

Jennifer Hillyard

Service Coordinator

Q: How many years have you been working at Grafton?

A: Over 2 years!

A: I graduated from Shepherd University with a Bachelor’s in Elementary and Early Childhood Education. I taught elementary school for 30 years in Arlington and Frederick Counties and retired in 2023. I wanted my next career to still involve working with children and families and EI has been a perfect fit for me!

A: I am a service coordinator with EI. I help families through the EI process by developing the IFSP goals/ services, monitoring IFSP implementation, supporting through transition, and helping families problem solve.

A: EI is important because the first few years of a child’s life are a period of fast development and interventions can have a lasting positive impact. EI also empowers families by providing them with knowledge and support.

A: I value my EI team in many ways. They provide support in challenging situations and are a wealth of knowledge! We are always there for each other in times of need.

A: Working with families and seeing the progress their children make.

A: I enjoy spending time with my family, reading, hiking, and watching DC sports teams.

A: Reading, Scrapbooking, and spending time outside.

A: My great-great uncle was the President of Cuba.

A: My family, friends, faith, and work.

A: You don’t stop playing because you grow old, you grow old because you stop playing.

Jennifer Mantz

Occupational Therapist

Q: How many years have you been working at Grafton?

A: I have worked with Grafton full time for over 10 years.  

A: I received a Bachelor of Science degree from University of Wisconsin and moved to North Carolina to complete my internship and worked at a hospital in Cardiac Rehabilitation. This is where I discovered my interest in occupational therapy. During one of my performance reviews, my boss said he thought I would be a great occupational therapist and after researching this career, I decided he was correct!  I received a Masters in Occupational Therapy at Shenandoah University.  I then started working as a school-based Occupational therapist and when I had my child, I transitioned to working in early intervention, due to the flexible schedule and my love of working with the children and families. I have been in this field for over 19 years.

A: I perform initial assessments and help develop the service plan based on a family and child’s specific needs.  I provide services in the natural environment with children and families to help increase their functional performance in everyday living.  Due to providing services in the natural environment, I travel from one client to another.

A: I feel early intervention is important to help children at risk for developing further delays and educate the families on strategies and techniques to best help their child.

A: Our EI team is very close despite not working directly together every day. We communicate effectively and support and assist each other to best help our families. 

A: I am passionate about what I do and work well with the families. I work hard to create strategies to meet the families specific needs and act as a source of support and comfort as they navigate the challenges they face.

A: Watching the joy on the families faces as they see their child achieve a new skill.

A: Effective, Nurturing, Supportive

A: I love spending time with my family, playing games and traveling. I love spending time with my friends going out to dinner and laughing. I enjoy being on the water or near the water on a boat or relaxing watching the water. 

Kaitlyn Poole

Service Coordinator

Q: How many years have you been working at Grafton?

A: I have been working for Grafton for over a year and a half.

  

A: I received my bachelor’s in education from Kent State University in 2017. I taught elementary Special Education for 6 years before joining the EI team at Grafton. I wanted to continue supporting families and their kids and have the chance to work with younger kids.

A: My team means so much to me! It is full of knowledgeable and supportive people. We work together to give families the best support possible while in our program.

A: I enjoy working with the families and being someone they can lean on for support and someone who can advocate for them.

A: Consistent, Accessible, and Supportive

A: Take the leap! We are family centered and focus on what you need.

A: Spending time with my husband and our two kids.

Kylie Zoller

BCBA/Development Specialist

Q: How many years have you been working at Grafton?

A: Over 13 years!

  

A: Studied psychology at University of Colorado and Virginia Commonwealth University. Received Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education at George Mason University. After completing Teach for America in the D.C. region, I taught pre-k in West Virginia while completing course work and supervision hours to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). I worked for Grafton’s outpatient ABA program, as a program manager, before transitioning to Early Intervention. I’m inspired by the fact that building a strong foundation early on can positively impact a child’s health, happiness, and development for years to come. 

A: The bulk of my workload consists of completing developmental assessments and in-home sessions with families. I see each family 1 -3 times per month; we meet to discuss parent concerns, progress towards the outcomes their families wanted to focus on and develop strategies to help parents support their children at home.

A: It allows families to address concerns early, before they could potentially turn into bigger challenges. It also empowers parents and allows the clients to learn where they learn best by the most important teachers they’ll ever have – at home with their parents.

A: I’m a parent too – I know firsthand that theory is easier than application. We often understand what we’re supposed to do to help our kids but making it realistic and feasible in our daily lives is harder than it seems. My goal is to use strategies that are efficient, yet practical.

A: Cooperative and result-oriented

A: Supportive, Informative and Family-focused

A: We don’t diagnose; we support. If you are concerned about your child’s development, we help you work on what you want to address. We offer our expertise, experience and knowledge but ultimately, the parent is the one who makes all the decisions. It’s much easier to address concerns when they are young- acting early is key! I’ve never had a parent say, “I wish we waited to get help.” But I often hear, “We should have done this sooner.”

A: We care! Everyone on Grafton’s EI team is here for one simple reason: we want to help.

A: You’ll most likely find me listening to an audiobook, while trying out a new recipe or spending time with my family.

A: Family, Health, Community

Megan Mahon

Service Coordinator

Q: How many years have you been working at Grafton?

A: Over Three years!

  

A: I graduated from University of Wisconsin Whitewater with a bachelor’s in psychology and family, health, and disability studies in 2017. I am taking classes online at University of Wisconsin Eau Claire and Laurel Ridge to finish a second bachelor’s in Communication Sciences and Disorders. This job inspired me with the chance to help support families and the strong connection to the community.

A: Service Coordinators communicate with parents and providers to help the team ensure the Individualized Family Service Plan for the family’s concerns, priorities, outcomes, and services are best supported. We work as a team to determine a plan for supporting the child’s development and the family’s unique needs.

A: The importance of early intervention is shown in a lot of research on how critical the age from birth to three years is in supporting a child’s overall development with their health, growth, and skill acquisition. The birth to three window is when the learning connections the child’s brain makes to process their world is most receptive and intervention is most effective. Early intervention provides coaching and support to caregivers to enhance their self-advocacy and self-efficacy in supporting their child’s development. Early intervention seeks to help strengthen communities as a whole and families individually to support each child’s overall wellbeing.

A: The EI team is supportive, energetic, and adaptable. I am very proud to work with a great team who is empathetic, flexible, and creative to help support families and children in our community.

A: I enjoy the opportunity to support families and work on a great team!

A: Early intervention is designed to support developmental milestones and could make a significant impact on a child’s progress. An assessment is of no cost to the family and is an option to consider as a way to gather information and see if EI could be a good fit.

A: Spending time with friends and family. Finding volunteer opportunities in the community to do with friends.

A: Reading

Michele Windle

Speech Language Pathologist

Q: How many years have you been working at Grafton?

A: I’ve been with the Infant and Toddler Connection for over 13 years. Before retiring from the school system, I worked with preschool students at Northwestern Regional Education Programs in Winchester and Page County Public Schools.

  

A: I received a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from West Virginia University and earned a Master’s degree in Speech Language Pathology from James Madison University. I completed the Certificate of Clinical Competency for my field and have obtained certification as an early intervention specialist.

A: I evaluate children and provide services to children with a variety of conditions and diagnoses that can cause delays in communication skills.

A: We all care about our youngest learners, and we support each other.

A: I am here for you. We will work together to help your child!

A: I love helping parents learn strategies to help their child. They drive the services and get to practice new things with their child.

A: Knowledgeable, Compassionate and Supportive

A: Early is best! If your child needs support- this team is knowledgeable and cares so much about helping you.

A: They have amazing professionals, who are dedicated to helping children and families.

A: My husband and I have 3 adult children. I am so proud of them! I love spending time with them every chance we get. I am lucky enough to spend some of my days off with my Granddaughter, Nora!

A: I am the oldest of 26 grandchildren- so I’ve loved children my whole life.

 

A: My family, helping others feel valued, and supporting families as they navigate raising their children.

 

A: “Family is not an important thing. It’s everything”. – Michael J Fox

 

Rebecca Comstock

Service Coordinator

Q: How many years have you been working at Grafton?

A: Over 2 years!

  

A: Bachelors degree in Elementary and Special Education

A:

  • Working with families to create family driven IFSP’s
  • Supporting families with local resources
  • Answering family questions
  • Managing IFSP timelines and protocols
  • Working with providers to report updates on child progress

A: I feel Early Intervention is important because those first few years are crucial to address developmental delays and disabilities. It is also important to empower the families early on and give them the confidence to support their child. Empowering families and intervening early on has such a positive impact on the trajectory of their child’s development.

A: I would like families to know that I am invested in their child’s development and am here to support these families through whatever they may need. Having young children is a blessing but can be a very trying, difficult time and I enjoy supporting parents through these challenging years.

A: Connecting with families and celebrating the little wins of progress! I also love reminding parents that they are doing an amazing job! (Parents do not hear that enough.)

A: Family driven, Flexible, and Researched Based

Samantha Dingwell

Administrative Assistant II

Q: How many years have you been working at Grafton?

A: I have been working with Grafton for over 4 years.

  

A: In my role, I keep the office stocked with supplies and well organized. I enter data into multiple systems as needed. I maintain and run audits as needed. I send/receive records requests and make sure they’re fulfilled in a timely manner.

A: Early Intervention is important because it helps the children in our program to thrive. Given the resources we have and are able to provide, EI helps families to feel more at ease with milestones and with reaching milestones.

A: The EI team is family. This team of women is amazing. I couldn’t ask for a better group of ladies.

A: Versatile, Hands-on, Vital

A: Even if you’re unsure about our program, reach out. Our program supervisor can and will answer any questions to help you determine whether we are a fit for you and your family.

A: I love to read or to find a good movie or series to watch.

A: “Life is like a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.” – Albert Einstein

Sarah Bosworth

Physical Therapist

Q: How many years have you been working at Grafton?

A: I began working at Grafton in March of 2023

  

A: For as long as I can remember, I’ve wanted to be a physical therapist. I was first introduced to it during a girl scout event at the local hospital, where we learned about different healthcare careers. I remember making up my mind that day, and I started pursuing my career at 12 years old.

I graduated from Shenandoah University in 2004 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology and a minor in Biology. In 2007, I graduated with a Doctor of Physical Therapy Degree from Slippery Rock University in PA. I’ve always worked in pediatrics in a variety of settings including private practice, hospital outpatient rehabilitation and early intervention. I believe in a strong education and became a Credentialed Clinical Instructor (CCI) through the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA).

A: As an early intervention physical therapist, I have the pleasure of working with children and their families in their homes. We work to achieve the gross motor goals that parents want their children to meet. That includes skills from rolling and sitting to running and jumping. In order to meet those goals, I educate parents on the progression of developmental milestones and help determine if there is something underlying such as muscle tightness, muscle weakness or differences in muscle tone. I help families understand what’s going on with their child and how they can promote motor development in their everyday lives and routines.

A: Early Intervention is important because the first three years of a child’s life is when the brain is developing the most. We can truly make a difference in the trajectory of a family’s life by giving them the strong foundations to build on.

A: Everyone on Grafton’s EI team draws from many different experiences and training, so we can offer a wide range of knowledge and strategies to families. We are constantly collaborating with each other on different ideas, approaches to treatment and community resources available. Every one of our team members truly cares about helping children and their families. I love that there is no competition between each other, like I’ve seen in other settings. Instead, we support each other to meet our own personal goals, as well as our family’s goals.

A: I would like future families to know that they should not be intimidated by Early Intervention. It can be scary to have someone come into your home and it can feel like you are being judged or criticized. That is not even close to our intention. We want you and your child to feel comfortable and know that we want your child to succeed just as you do. Being in your home helps us to experience what your daily routines and life is like. This helps us guide how we can best assist you and use the tools that you already have in your home.

A: I keep the lines of communication open all the time. I want feedback from families on what works best for them and what doesn’t. A lot of my role with your family is education; so how a parent or caregiver learns best is something that’s important to me. I want to make a family’s life easier and not more difficult.

A: I love meeting new people and helping them discover the strengths that their children possess.

A: Empowering, Friendly and Supportive

A: If you have any concerns about your child’s development, or are not sure if you should be concerned, we are here to help guide you. All children develop differently and the internet can give confusing and conflicting information. Let us assess your child and see if we can support you in your child’s development. If there are no concerns, we can also guide you to resources.

A: I enjoy spending time with my husband, 3 daughters and family dog.

A: I enjoy vegetable gardening and canning.

A: I worked at Grafton as a Residential Assistant when I was attending Shenandoah University.

Susan Anderson

Speech Language Pathologist

Q: How many years have you been working at Grafton?

A: 13+ Years

  

A: I received my Bachelors of Arts degree in Hearing and Speech Science from the University of Maryland and my Masters of Science degree in Speech Language Pathology from University of the District of Columbia. I was inspired to become a speech language pathologist because of my love for working with children, especially ones who are struggling to learn to talk and communicate. 

A: I provide speech therapy services for children ages birth to 3. I mostly work with children 16 months and older, who are delayed in their communication skills ,but I have also worked with infants with diagnosed hearing impairments. I am also on an assessment team and provide developmental assessments for infants and toddlers who are either showing developmental delays or have a diagnosis that is likely to result in a delay in any of the developmental areas. I also assist service coordinators to complete IFSP’s on children when they need services and help the family come up with outcomes and services that they might need to help their child. 

A day in my life: I travel to each of my families. When I work with families, I coach the parents or caregivers in using strategies that will help their child communicate, say words, imitate and learn words. I demonstrate these strategies to families too. I address any concerns that the family or caregivers might have regarding their child’s development.  

A: The first 3 years of a child’s life are critically important for brain development. If a child is struggling with any developmental milestone, addressing these concerns early and helping parents/caregivers to learn how to help is critical in preventing further delays.

A: I am extremely grateful to have such a great EI team to work with. They are not just coworkers, they are friends and mentors. I learn so much from my team. They  support me, encourage me, and teach me in every way possible. 

A: I love what I do, and I love helping children and families.

A: I love hearing children say their first word. I love seeing parents get excited when they see their child do something that they have not done before, or say a word that they have not heard before. 

A: Impactful, Individualized, Family-Centered

A: If someone is unsure if they should reach out, I would suggest making a referral to our EI program and a qualified team can come out and talk about your concerns. We might be able to help and the only way to know is to reach out. 

A: I enjoy going to Mass as often as possible at my church, spending time with my family, playing with my grandkids and traveling with my husband.  

A: 1) Jesus 2) my husband, 3) my kids

A: “do unto others as you would have them do unto you” -Matthew 7:12

Suzanne Racer

Occupational Therapist

Q: How many years have you been working at Grafton?

A: 4+ Years!  

  

A: I graduated from SU with my Masters of Science in Occupational Therapy. From early on in my professional career, I knew I wanted to work in pediatrics. My previous work experience includes working as an OT in Warren County Public Schools, then I transitioned to WV Birth to Three, and then to the Infant and Toddler Connection of the Shenandoah Valley.

From a young age, I was immersed in a culture of helping others achieve as much independence as possible through various means, since my dad had physical disabilities. He overcame a lot of obstacles with the right support in place, which enabled him to thrive. This experience gave me the desire to be an Occupational Therapist, so I could help others fully participate in their daily chosen “occupations” (i.e. purposeful activities). Purposeful engagement in chosen occupations is the cornerstone for one’s health and wellness.

A: I am on the road all day, every day; the EI staff travel to the homes of clients in 5 counties. We support kids as part of a larger family unit and participate in their daily routines with greater ease. We use a variety of developmentally appropriate activities and teach families how to incorporate strategies into their routine for continued success. We build relationships over time, to help foster greater independence for the families we serve. 

A: A family can thrive when appropriate resources and support are obtained. It’s a joy to be able to be a part of that process for families.

 

A: The staff is truly phenomenal and always willing to walk the extra mile for others.

A: I value taking the time to glean and understand what is important to the family so that I can support them with their goals for their family.

A: My communication style is honest and kind. 

A: Seeing families grow and function easier with the needed supports in place.

A: Dedicated, Caring and Professional

A:  Spending time with my family and mini goldendoodle; enjoying the beautiful Shenandoah Valley and traveling to see this amazing world we live in.

A: My faith in Jesus and my relationships with my family and friends.

A: Everyone is worthy of dignity and respect

Zandalee Daugherty

Developmental Specialist

Q: How many years have you been working at Grafton?

A: Since January of 2018!

  

A: Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Development

I also recently received my certification of Human Development and Family Studies from the American Association of Family and Consumer Science.

Credentials are:  Zandalee Daugherty, CFCS-HDFS

I also have a background prior to ITC of working with children in daycare and preschool settings as a teacher.

A: I provide services to children and their families regarding overall developmental concerns. I focus on social and emotions skills, early communication skills, and play skills. I work as a team with families on how to guide them to meet the goals that they have set for their children.

A: My EI team is my biggest support system. Over the years that I have been a part of EI, I have seen a dedicated team to the program and the families that we support.

 

A: Easy going and approachable!

A: I love watching my families and children I work with grow and meet goals together.

A: Dedicated, Resourceful, and Supportive

A: Being part of a team that supports families and children within our program and community.

A: I enjoy time with my friends, family, and pets (Dog and cat).

A: Hiking, Camping, Reading, Traveling, and Being outdoors.