A long time ago in a faraway place, two passionate therapists, Tori and Amanda, worked side by side at
a center dedicated to supporting autistic adults. These individuals expressed their unique ways of being
in the world through a wide range of sensory and communication styles. While their experiences differed,
one shared challenge many faced was navigating environments not designed with their sensory needs
in mind.
As occupational therapy practitioners, our mission was clear: to honor and support these adults in
living more comfortably and confidently in their bodies and within the world around them.
We embarked on a clinical trial with four men whose sensory needs were significant
and often misunderstood.
The outcome was transformative. With the right supports in place, we witnessed these individuals become
more engaged, communicative, and joyful. Moments of connection blossomed. Smiles were frequent,
and their well-being visibly improved. What had been labeled as "challenging behaviors" were
reframed as expressions of unmet needs, and those needs were now being supported.
Encouraged by these positive changes, we expanded the approach to more participants in the program,
and again, we saw people thrive. We realized that this work needed to begin even earlier so that children
with sensory processing differences could receive affirming, empowering support from the very start.
No child should have to navigate a world that doesn’t understand them without advocates in their corner.
And so, on Saturday, August 25th, 2007, TLC was born. What began as a dream shared by two therapists
has grown into a thriving multidisciplinary pediatric therapy center grounded in compassion, respect, and
inclusion. Our mission is to help children embrace their strengths, support their unique needs, and build
lives full of connection, confidence, and joy.
TLC’s team is made up of dedicated, knowledgeable, and caring professionals who believe deeply in every
child’s potential. Through continued learning, collaborative teamwork, and community involvement, we strive
every day to create a space where all children, and the professionals who support them, can grow, thrive, and shine.
