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Old Dominion University
1019 W. 41st Street
Norfolk, VA 23529
The VOTA Child and Youth Conference provides an opportunity for occupational therapy practitioners who are passionate about pediatric practice to come together. Attendees earn continuing education credits while participating in a range of sessions designed for clinicians with a range of experience levels. Come network with colleagues, exchange ideas, and connect with exhibitors during VOTA's dedicated pediatric event. Sessions are presented on diverse topics to support professional growth and to highlight current trends and innovations within the field. This year, we are hosting at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, "A city on the water that's never watered down". All Are Welcome to join us for a day of learning and connection!
WHAT DO PAST ATTENDEES HAVE TO SAY?
"Wonderful opportunity to learn about relevant topics and connect with OTs in VA!"
"The content was great in all of the sessions, including the keynote. Parking directions were clear and it was easy to get into the event."
"Great location and facilities. Good topics and high quality presentations."
8:00 - 8:30: Registration and breakfast
8:30 - 9:45 : Welcome and Keynote Speaker (1.25 CE)
9:45 - 10:30: Poster Session and Snacks (.25 CE for every poster you visit. Max 1 CE)
10:45 -12:15: Session 1 (90 Minutes) (1.5 CE)
Fit4Work in the Garden: Using the Gardening Environment for Vocational Success in Youth with Disabilities
Exploring OTs Role and Impact on Misophonia and Misokinesia
10:45 - 11:30 : Session 1A (45 Minutes) (.75 CE)
Supporting Safe Relationships: Expanding OT Practice in Sexuality Education
The Telepathy Tapes and the Energy of Autism
11:30 - 12:15: Session 1B (45 Minutes) (.75 CE)
From Silos to Synergy: Building a Cross-District Mentorship Circle to Advance School-Based OT and PT Practice
Building Firm Foundations in Early Intervention: Adaptive Standing as AT
12:15 - 1:30: Lunch and visit with vendors
1:45 - 3:15: Session 2 (90 Minutes) (1.5 CE)
Common Strands: Knitting, OT, and Project Knitwell
1:45 - 2:30: Session 2A (45 Minutes) (.75 CE)
Navigating Uncertainty in School Practice: The Dual Impact on Professional Reasoning
*Additional session Awaiting confirmation*
2:30 - 3:15: Session 2B (45 Minutes) (.75 CE)
Managing Big Behaviors in Pediatric OT: A Regulation-First, Executive Function Lens
*Additional session Awaiting Confirmation*
3:15 - 3:45: Snacks and Raffle
3:45 - 5:15: Session 3 (90 Minutes) (1.5 CE)
Assistive Technology – Where Can Occupational Therapy Fit? Where do you fit?
Effective Behavioral Interventions & Supports: Blending OT & ABA for all Settings
3:45 - 4:45: Session 3A (60 Minutes) (1 CE)
Narcan Training
Max total CE: 6.75
Meet our Keynote Speaker:
Bettina Stevens, DPT, adoption Competent Professional, TBRI Ⓡ Practitioner, SFP Family Coach

Bettina is a passionate advocate for family preservation and community empowerment, dedicated to fostering resilience and inclusion for families.
Her journey began with a Bachelor of Arts in Dance and Musical Theater from Marymount Manhattan College, where she honed her creativity and discipline. She later transitioned into healthcare, earning her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Virginia Commonwealth University - which blended her love for movement and science.
She married her high school sweetheart, and together they adopted three children, two of whom have disabilities. This life-changing experience opened her eyes to a world she didn’t know existed, and two years post-adoption, she left her career to focus on the complex needs of her family. Navigating these challenges firsthand gave her a unique perspective on the gaps in family care and community resources, motivating her to create meaningful solutions.
In 2019, she became a licensed foster parent, and also founded her first organization to address significant gaps in inclusive family care and community access - both for her family and those walking a similar path. Now, she has shifted her focus to The Phoenix Collaborative, expanding her work to provide support, training, and program development for both families and organizations.
As a certified TBRI® (Trust-Based Relational Intervention) Practitioner, Adoption-Competent Professional, Mental Health First Aid trained, and CPI (Crisis Prevention Institute) certified individual, she works to equip families and communities with tools to grow.
Constant Center Garage – entrance on W 41st street just after McDonalds.
Cost: Free

Thank you to our sponsors!
