Occupational Therapist - Brooklyn
Hello! My name is Gianna Delfino, and I am a Doctor of Occupational Therapy specializing in early childhood development. In my work as a preschool occupational therapist, I primarily support children ages 2–5 and their families. I am particularly passionate about supporting neurodivergent children, including those with PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) profiles, through a neurodiversity-affirming, trauma-informed, and PDA-friendly approach. As a neurodivergent adult diagnosed with AuDHD and OCD, I bring both professional expertise and lived experience to my work.
I also live with multiple chronic health conditions, including hypermobile EDS, POTS, MCAS, autoimmune conditions, venous compression syndromes, and tethered cord syndrome. These experiences have deepened my understanding of the complex ways that neurological, physical, emotional, and environmental factors intersect in daily life. They have also strengthened my commitment to providing validation and understanding to children, families, and individuals who have often felt chronically misunderstood or unsupported.
At the heart of my work is a belief that every child deserves to be understood, accepted, and supported as they are. I value meaningful connections with both children and their families and believe that effective support begins with attunement—taking the time to understand each child’s unique strengths, needs, characteristics, and ways of experiencing the world. By meeting children where they are and honoring how their brains and bodies work, I strive to help families discover what truly works for their individual child rather than relying on one-size-fits-all approaches.
My philosophy is rooted in a whole-child, whole-body approach that recognizes the importance of physical, emotional, sensory, relational, and environmental well-being. Through child-led, compassionate, and collaborative support, I aim to nurture each child in the ways they need to thrive, experience joy, and feel nourished in their daily lives. I believe meaningful participation grows through trusting relationships, authentic connection, and engagement in activities that are personally significant and preferred by the child. My goal is to help children and families build confidence, connection, and well-being in ways that feel safe, respectful, and sustainable.