171 Dana Johnson on Vision, Motor Planning, and the Spellers Method

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

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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.