About Jeannene
Jeannene's first experience of The Son-Rise Program® was as a young girl when she watched the movie Son-Rise: The Miracle of Love. She imagined that one day she would help people with special needs. Jeannene has always been a naturally loving and accepting person who has felt a great sense of purpose in life.
While studying Psychology at Simon Fraser University in British Columbia, Jeannene was fascinated to learn about typical and atypical development. Putting her education into practice, she worked with typically developing children and children with special needs in a variety of programs including daycares, preschools, and in family’s homes. One of Jeannene’s most gratifying opportunities has been fostering a child with severe autism in her own home. She acted as a strong advocate for this child and organized a treatment team. She understands the value of the tiniest of successes, the daily care and challenges that can arise.
Jeannene sees that people with autism are especially unique and gifted and have much to offer the world. She has always believed in their amazing capabilities and has spent years learning how to help them achieve their potential. Jeannene trained at the Autism Treatment Center of America because she appreciates that a relationship-based approach is the key to addressing the core challenges that people with autism face. She uses the Son-Rise Program® because in every way it allows her to cherish each child exactly as he or she is and it enables her to empower each child to blossom and shine.
During the 18 months of intensive training to become a Certified Son-Rise Program® Child Facilitator, Jeannene not only learned numerous techniques to effectively help individuals with autism, she developed personally into a more open, accepting and confident woman.
Jeannene currently has over 12 years of experience studying autism and working directly with many children of varying ages and diagnosis using a variety of methods (The Son-Rise Program®, Positive Behavioral Support, PECS etc.). She has traveled to the United States, England, Scotland, and Costa Rica to help families with children who have special needs.
I feel forever grateful and rewarded by the work I do with individuals who have special needs. Something magical happens while connecting with these people. It is those first glances, the smiles, those adorable giggles and the deep, sustained eye contact when our souls meet, all of which means more than words can describe. Each of these precious moments is based on genuine respect and honesty. Special children inspire me to be my best and show my true colors everyday. This is why I love what I do!
Jeannene Christie