171 Dana Johnson on Vision, Motor Planning, and the Spellers Method
Feb 20, 2025
I first spoke with Dana Johnson nearly four years ago, and that conversation completely changed how I saw vision and learning. I call it my "ocular motor awakening"—when I truly understood that vision has three components, and only one of them is corrected by glasses.
Dana is the co-creator of the Spellers Method and the founder of multiple centers dedicated to helping non-speaking individuals communicate and learn with purpose. As both an occupational therapist (OT) and a Spellers Method practitioner, she brings a unique approach to supporting individuals with autism, apraxia, dyspraxia, and sensory-motor differences.
In this episode, we dive into the power of purposeful motor skills, breaking down barriers for non-speakers, and what real communication means.
Key Takeaways:
- Vision isn’t just about eyesight—it’s about how the brain processes what we see.
- Apraxia is a motor planning challenge, not a cognitive one.
- Communication is possible when we focus on purposeful motor skills.
- The right support can unlock a non-speaker’s true potential.
Get in Touch:
👉 Learn more about Dana Johnson’s work at Spellers Method
👉 Connect with Dr. Vaish Sarathy on Instagram: @dr.vaishsarathy
Listen On
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Disclaimer: The information in this Podcast is for educational purposes only. Vaishnavi Sarathy, Ph.D. is an educator, not a doctor, specifically not your child’s doctor. Please consult your physician before implementing any supplement or diet recommendations.
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