Understanding the functional implications of neuropsychiatric disorders including Tourette Syndrome and Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS), and application of sensory tools to reduce disruptive behaviors in adolescence with psychosocial needs. Optimizing oral health for individuals with disabilities at home and in the dental office using sensory, motor, and behavioral interventions.
Janice Tona, PhD, OTR, is an occupational therapist and an educational psychologist, with certifications in neurodevelopmental treatment, administration and interpretation of sensory integration, and praxis tests. She is particularly interested in working with children with sensory and motor difficulties as well as children with behavioral challenges. Dr. Tona practices collaboratively with dental health practitioners to modify the dental environment and optimize comfort for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the dental office.
Tona has been an occupational therapist for more than three decades and has worked in higher education for more than two decades. She currently serves as Academic Affairs Alliance co-chair for the New York State Occupational Therapy Association as well as an American Occupational Therapy Association Scholarship of Teaching and Learning mentor. Her teaching experience includes courses in pediatrics, neuroscience, evidence-based practice, service delivery issues, interpersonal communication, and group process. Her doctoral dissertation focused on the development of clinical reasoning.