I've had the great privilege of working with hundreds of extraordinary kids and families over the years, all with their own unique story.
Each journey taught me so much, allowing me to better meet the needs of children and families to come. I've also been blessed with the opportunity to supervise hundreds of inspired minds from OT, PT, speech, psychology, social work and education. Few things are as rewarding for me as those ‘aha moments’ when a clinician grasps a new concept or executes something in a session for the first time. Below are some of the lovely things these folks have to say.
International Intensives • Sensory Gym Design • Ongoing Case Support • In-person OT Gayatri, mother of Nivu
I don't think any story on our little Nivu would be complete without mentioning Markus. I remember the devastation I felt, the impact Nivu’s psychological test had on me when she was diagnosed. In all honesty, it's been a very trying journey. One that almost tore through our family.... our marriage and our own selves ...
That's when we came across Markus.
It would be an understatement to say he has had a profound influence in our life. We had spent months looking for therapies and centres in India. Random ABA therapists and OT centres were thrown at us, and that was when we were ready to spend anything. We kept looking at so many websites across America to find some kind of guidance and some kind of support, when a friend suggested Markus Jarrow at the Smile Center In Manhattan.
After calling multiple times, the front desk connected us to him and a few months later we took Nivu to NYC. There was not a minute that I spent with Markus when I was not learning from him. Nivu, a child who I was told had no learning ability, was suddenly laughing with him. It wasn't easy ever. Let's not think it was magic. It was hours and hours of hard work, explanations and planning.
After our visit to NYC, he came to India multiple times for intensives. He trained our family and support staff in how to best interact with Nivu and adjusted almost every aspect of her day in some way to better suit her and us. He trained our OTs here and also found Floortime trained psychologists in our area and built a team to work with her. He started coaching them right away and brought their floortime skills and awareness of Nivu to another level almost immediately.
He also set up a beautiful gym inside our home and another swing and play space on our balcony which she loved. The following year he designed a sensory gym inside the local OT centre for her and so many more children. He also introduced her to her first AAC device.
In between visits to India, Markus continued to mentor our therapists over zoom doing all he could to support them and Nivu. He watched videos of their sessions with her and guided them to better meet her needs.
Markus always said that a child should be obsessed with their therapist. And Nivu, someone who barely recognised her own mother, was crazy about him. He was a great mix of compassion, empathy, love and respect towards Nivu and her issues... but he never let her be a prisoner of her own helplessness. He kept always pushing her boundaries but the beauty is she never even knew he was.
I don't think I have ever taken a big step in Nivu's life without consulting Markus. He gives a perspective of your child and is a wonderful advocate for her when she can't be herself. He has moved mountains to get us appointments with wonderful doctors in the field for Nivu. Helping heal her as a complete person and not just one aspect of her.
If you are a parent and want to heal your child in a deep and lasting way, I would suggest calling on Markus and his expertise as an OT and Floortime therapist. He is a rare talent. I have not found a second one to match him and his body of experience and work.
Meanwhile, be prepared to learn the reasons behind every move and behaviour of your child, and therapist. He's not there to fix your child because in his heart he doesn't think they’re broken. He will make sure they are the best versions of themselves.
Take my word for it, as a mother of a severely autistic non verbal beautiful girl, if there's someone who will connect and help them, be independent, happy and regulated, it is him.
In-person OT Taryn, mother of Elio
Upon our SLP's recommendation, we began working with Markus about four months ago. Our son, who has speech and fine motor delays along with sensory issues, had been attending OT at a gym for six months prior, but we hadn’t seen the progress we had hoped for. We truly appreciate Markus’ extensive experience, hands-on approach, and his willingness to teach us how to incorporate sensory activities into our daily routines. This has made a world of difference for our son. He is now more open, confident, and physically stronger than when we first started working together. We are incredibly grateful to have met Markus - his enthusiasm and positive attitude have given us the encouragement we needed!
In-person OT Taryn, mother of Ryan
Markus created a unique intensive home program for us, incorporating exercises and games for sensory processing integration, posture improvement, as well as core and body strengthening. He was able to target my son’s needs and continually modify the program to match his progress. As a homeschooling mom, it was wonderful to collaborate and incorporate these therapies into my son’s school day, taking normally rote curriculum and turning it into active, fun learning. Spelling and multiplication tables became favorites as we created a practice that involved jumping, spinning and rolling amongst other activities. My son, who never liked to sit still for very long, loved meeting these kinds of kinetic challenges, and as a result, the learning became concrete and lasting.
Markus is a real healer – he brings his therapeutic expertise as well as a profound sensitivity to each child’s unique needs, taking the time to form a personal bond. He brings energy and creativity to each session and has a super cool vibe. My son loved playing and hanging out with him, while also growing in strength, resilience and skill. He could talk with Markus about anything, including all things Pokemon. Markus was able to meet him on many levels, and create an environment in which he could feel safe, competent and keep growing in ability. He even built a rock climbing wall when my son showed interest.When my son started OT with Markus, he was very anxious, had low frustration tolerance and couldn’t catch a ball from 8 feet away. In working with him, my son made incredible gains in strength, coordination, and problem solving. He became an accomplished competitive indoor rock climber, making it to top 10 at USA Climbing Bouldering Nationals, (twice!), as well as to top 3 at Canadian Bouldering Nationals. Without the work we did with Markus, I’m not sure he would have developed the problem-solving skills, strength, self-awareness, and self-confidence he has today. Nothing short of a miracle, really.
In-person OT • Sensory Gym DesignMaya, mother of Leela
We couldn't be happier with the incredible work Markus has done for our family over the past year. He designed a sensory gym in our apartment that is not only functional but also beautifully complements our neutral aesthetic. Despite the small space, he creatively incorporated monkey bars, a climbing wall, lycra, and swings, crafting an engaging environment for our kids.
The gym was specifically designed for our daughter to use independently, and once she started getting the daily sensory input she needed, we noticed significant improvements in her regulation and focus almost immediately. Not only has she thrived under Markus’ care, but our sensory gym also saved our couch!
Both of our children absolutely adore the gym, and we love that it enhances our home’s decor rather than detracting from it. It has been a fantastic addition to our lives, and we truly appreciate Markus’s expertise and creativity.
In-person OT • Virtual OTJen, mother of Jamie
“Markus explained to me how my daughter was experiencing the world, finding the words that she could not speak herself. I went into the session a skeptic and emerged full of hope that I had found someone who could help”
“My daughter’s challenges were a mystery to me, but Markus understood her condition and knew exactly how to help her, and he knew how to help me help her”
At two years old, my daughter’s sensory condition kept her at a distance with people, objects and food, which limited her ability to be comforted, socialize with peers and develop proper muscle tone. Textures caused extreme discomfort whereby getting dressed, bathing and eating became a daily struggle. Seemingly ordinary activities would induce an extreme emotional response due to her heightened sensory response.
I had become discouraged after ending 9 months of occupational therapy at a local facility. Each visit produced a great deal of tension and anxiety for my daughter and she was not able to bond with the therapist.
Our introductory session with Markus left a lasting impression. He was able to connect with my daughter at her level - gently, gradually and endearingly, building trust and confidence through playful activities that sparked her curiosity. In our follow up, Markus explained to me how my daughter was experiencing the world, finding the words that she could not speak herself. I went into the session a skeptic and emerged full of hope that I had found someone who could help.
Over the years, Markus has presided over my daughter’s treatment wholly attuned to her changing needs, interests and challenges. He is keenly aware when to make adjustments, push a little more, reinforce, regroup or switch gears. He equipped me with tools to support her between sessions and took a quick assessment of her present state prior to applying new therapeutic techniques.
It took me some time to understand that progress could not be measured incrementally from session to session. It presented more as a series of peaks and valleys, some sharper than others in both directions. Markus and I celebrated each tiny milestone that chipped away at my daughter’s defensive barrier.
Markus has committed to this journey with us for nine years. His continuous support has enabled my daughter to cope, function and thrive at every age. He has also been both my coach and cheerleader, reminding me of my strength, advising without judgment and bringing a welcome dose of humor into every interaction.
My daughter’s challenges were a mystery to me, but Markus understood her condition and knew exactly how to help her, and he knew how to help me help her. His continues to inspire my daughter to reach beyond herself week after week, as she grows and moves through the world.
During covid we had to switch to virtual sessions and Markus somehow managed to motivate my daughter, who had already fully embraced her inner teenage independence, to participate in zoom sessions. He came up with silly things and tapped into her passions and got her exercising and moving all around her room, which was a big help during those difficult days.
In-person OTMichelle, mother of Leo
We began working with Markus shortly after my son underwent open heart surgery at 7 weeks old. He came highly recommended as someone who specialized in working with infants. From our first meeting, I felt 100% confident in his ability to treat my son. It was extremely comforting to have his support at such a fragile time. Markus always made me feel like a partner in my son’s treatment so I could implement strategies in our everyday life. He was engaged and in tune in the most beautiful way, and I cherished watching him work with my son. We continued working together until my son was 15-months old and hated to say goodbye. Anyone who works with Markus can count themselves as being very fortunate- he’s a gem of a therapist.
In-person OTAmaiur, mother of Luken
I met Markus when my son Luken was 7 months old. We had just been told he had low muscle tone and he wasn’t meeting his milestones. It was a really scary time, not knowing how he would develop, or if any other issues would come up. Beginning therapy with Markus was the best thing that could have happened to us. My son LOVED working with him, they got to develop a very close relationship and that was very soothing for us as parents, knowing that we were in the best possible hands. Not only did he do an awesome job with Luken, using the NDT approach which did wonders for Luken, he also taught us how to work with him at home and made the whole journey of him getting better a pleasant one.
Not being from NYC or even the USA, we had no close relatives nearby, and knowing that Markus was there for Luken was very reassuring for me as a parent. He focused on his whole body rather than only on his low tone, working on his gross and fine motor skills as well as on his sensory issues. We are so grateful for all that he did for us.
In-person OTCarey, mother of Gavin
Markus was referred to us at a time when it seemed like there was no one else on the planet with the skills and knowledge needed to help my 3 year old son and I navigate through the most difficult time in his life that we’d had so far. My son had completely stopped being able to tolerate wearing any clothing whatsoever, and at the time I had no idea what Sensory Processing Disorder was or if we were ever going to be able to go out in the world together again. Markus was amazing at connecting and establishing trust with my child from the start. He taught me so much about SPD and helped me learn by demonstrating things like how to use dramatic play (such as pretending his stuffed animals were doing the talking) to help my son communicate with me. He is clearly gifted with children, dedicated to his work, cares for his clients well-being, and will go above and beyond to support them. I’ll be forever grateful to Markus and highly recommend his services.
In-person OTKaren, mother of Abby
Our daughter started working with Markus when she was 2 years old. His compassion, kind demeanor and incredible skill at reaching all kinds of kids, changed her trajectory. Not only did he help her manage her sensory challenges in their sessions, he also set up equipment and a program at home that she loved. In addition, he identified language processing issues long before her teachers did. Markus was our captain and steered her (and our family) on the path to success and a more healthy and secure place for her in the world.
OT Evaluation • In-person OT • Sensory Gym Design • IntensivesMary, mother of Frank
My son Frank at age 5 was struggling with fine motor, gross motor and some weird sensory behaviors. As parents desperate for answers, we decided to take him to The SMILE Center in NYC for a week-long comprehensive evaluation and intensive therapy session. At home we were going from therapist to therapist without any progress. It was expensive, time consuming and stressful for my child.
At the SMILE Center we met Markus who immediately gave us tremendous insight into our son’s sensory and specific proprioceptive issues. Only then was I able to understand some of the unique behaviors. We literally saw progress after the first day.
Markus and his team coached us on a variety of techniques, so Frank could literally feel his body. Throughout the week we learned so much, and Frank had a blast swinging and jumping with no idea he was working really hard.
Regular trips to New York were not feasible, so instead Markus came to us for a consultation in Memphis. We set up a couple of swings, home modifications and a zipline in the backyard, and Markus coached my husband and I along with our local OT on how to perform a home program and best engage our son. Doing therapy daily at home ended up being way more cost efficient and effective for my son than racing around town to therapy appointments. Not to mention, both of my children thought it was really fun.
My only regret is that I could not talk Markus into moving to Memphis to open a practice here!
OT Evaluation • In-person OT • International IntensivesHanna, mother of William
Markus is an amazing OT, certainly the best I have ever come across in the years that my son has required therapy. He is extremely professional, knowledgeable and impressively up to date in his field. He is highly emotionally intelligent which makes him very in tune with the children he works with, and is wonderful at communicating with parents in a very clear, compassionate way.
We went to see Markus in New York for a comprehensive evaluation and our son responded so well to his therapy that we hired Markus to fly from the US to our island home in the Caribbean to develop a treatment plan for our son who could not get OT at Markus' level of expertise in our country. The whole experience of flying Markus over, him setting up a program with us and our son in our home was completely seamless and worth any expense. He provided the necessary equipment, parent training and completely tweaked the treatment plan based on our son's needs, our resources, our home and our whole family and living situation. This made it into a highly realistic, doable, sustainable and effective plan. I know that Markus' input enabled our son to make incredible progress which has been long lasting and the benefits of which we are still seeing today. We are forever grateful.- Hanna
In-person OT • Sensory Gym DesignRoe, mother of Christian
Markus worked with our autistic son, Christian for a few months prior to the initiation of early intervention. During this time, my husband and I were waiting for Christian to be assessed by a developmental pediatrician for a formal diagnosis.
This was probably the most difficult time in our lives. My husband and I were completely hopeless and broken after witnessing our son’s rapid behavioral regression; developmentally appropriate behavior became nonexistent. He went from being a relatively healthy infant who ate, slept well, was happy, socially interactive, meeting every developmental milestone to a child that was unrecognizable in every area mentioned.
Markus came highly recommended for assistance with Christian’s sensory issues. His sensory seeking behavior included the beginning signs of self-injurious conduct. Some symptoms included excessive clenching of the jaw, accompanied by extreme teeth grinding and tension throughout his body. Within minutes of Markus’ arrival, he connected with our son. He presented a shift in his vocal tone, promoting strong eye contact, and then applying deep pressure to a specific part of Christian’s body. Christian immediately stopped grinding and clenching. For the first time in almost two months he relaxed, exhibiting no symptoms of his reality, he looked at Markus and smiled. Our son was experiencing visible emotional and physical relief. We will never forget it. The connection between the two of them was undeniable and Markus became a symbol of hope for our family. He was our match in a dark tunnel, he was our moment of light, enabling us to see that there was a path.
Markus had an outstanding ability to communicate his observations and provided examples of instruction constantly throughout his sessions. Lastly, he created a sensory gym in our home that met Christian’s needs and exceeded our expectations. It came out beautifully. I have a number of therapists, specializing in different areas that all compliment how amazing and functional our gym is. We couldn’t be happier. Markus is a strong, intelligent, and reverent therapist, it was a blessing that he came into our lives and we will be forever grateful.
In-person OTVirginia, mother of baby
We met Markus after our daughter was diagnosed with a type of skeletal dysplasia at 10 months of age. As first time parents, we were totally in the dark with what to do to empower our little one physically as she was notably falling behind her peers with milestones. Markus was warm and reassuring from day 1 - with our daughter and with us. She took to him immediately as they focused on physical exercises that would help her sit up straight, pull to stand and ultimately walk. It's not an easy feat to work with a defiant toddler (while making it fun for them!) but Markus knew just what to do and say to get her through these exercises. He stayed with us for around 10 months and, with his help, she was able to walk within a "normal" timeframe, develop core strength and feel confident with simple movements. I would recommend Markus to anyone I know - his demeanor, attentiveness and creativity with exercises have made a world of a difference with our daughter.
In-person OTNaomi, mother of Colin
Colin met Markus when he was 3. Markus was the 6th OT we interviewed in Colin’s first year of receiving services. We hoped that there was someone out there that could help our son and we were determined to keep searching until we found him/her. Within 15 minutes of watching Colin move and interact with the space around him, Markus was able to explain things to us about Colin that no previous therapist could explain or would brush off as unimportant. We knew immediately and instinctively that Markus was the one. And he did not disappoint. He changed the trajectory of Colin’s life, profoundly improving how he lived in and experienced the world around him – in our minds, effectively, saving his life.
It was quite a journey. Taking a 3 year old who wasn’t talking, didn’t have the strength to pull himself up to a sitting position from prone, couldn’t tolerate water on his face or washing his hair and who melted down at the slightest hiccup and transforming him into a teenager who stands tall and proud, speaks eloquently and moves gracefully through the water as a competitive swimmer. Through it all Markus was kind, funny, encouraging and always upbeat, while also being thoughtful and intentional in gently pushing Colin to do the hard work he needed to do. It wasn’t always easy but Markus made sure it was always fun. And he wasn’t just an amazing therapist for Colin, he was always available to us to answer questions, to coach and model or just to hold our hands during a difficult patch to reassure us that it would all be OK. We’re forever grateful to Markus for changing the course of Colin’s life (and ours).
In-person OT • Sensory Gym Design • IntensivesDeanne, mother of George
Markus worked with George from 3yrs - 5yrs with many consults in between. In the beginning, George was extremely rigid in his play, unable to self-regulate, and had tremendous challenges at school. When we started with Markus, George was lining up his toys & not letting anyone play with them and by the end of their first session they were driving his trucks around together. I witnessed George make huge progress with each session and they slowly built upon each other and George became less rigid. He even began to let others play with his toys and the toys at school.
Markus did a lot of Floortime work with George and I and often videoed it so I could rewatch and learn more. Sessions ranged from one hour up to 3 hours and George was better able to self-regulate after each session. Markus came to our home in NYC and set up a sensory gym and taught me how (and why) to use the swing, spinning board, and lots of exercises to improve his low muscle tone. This really helped before and after school to help him self regulate.
At school, the teachers were requesting help on how to work with George's challenges. Markus worked closely with them to give them ideas about what would work best for George.
Personally, I had read many books trying to help support George. I never fully understood George's challenges until Markus explained them to me. As a parent, I felt helpless at times not knowing how to support George. Markus helped me to understand George's unique differences and why they happen. I learned more from Markus than any book I read on how to support my child. He empowered me through his compassion, patience, and abundance of experience to feel confident in handling the challenges that come with a child with differences.
Markus has a magical way of connecting with everyone. His calm and connected approach really resonated with George and created trust.
In-person OTJohn, father of Jaya
Markus is an extraordinary person and occupational therapist. From the first few minutes of our initial phone conversation, I knew we had finally found the person we were looking for in New York. Markus has a unique combination of authenticity, knowledge and skill, sensitivity, creativity and joyful care which makes him an extraordinary therapist. My nine year old son built an incredibly tight bond with Markus over the course of ~2 years and benefited enormously from the time they spent together. He looked forward to weekly OT sessions with Markus and was enthusiastic both about the fun he had, and the impact it had on his ability to focus his attention. We noticed marked improvement in the duration of our son's attention span and are grateful to Markus for all of his help. I can not recommend Markus enough.
In-person OT • Sensory Gym DesignParents of Lochie
Markus is certainly at the top of his field, and we are very thankful to have found him. He has been a blessing for our child.
He is very hands-on – helping right from the onset to explain in detail what he does and how it will help. Right from the beginning, he worked closely with us to build out a home gym – lining up the equipment and finding cost-efficient ways to get what we needed. He teaches us how to carry over the therapy in careful detail for time outside of his sessions. When we can’t make a session, Markus records a voice memo and provides other feedback on how the session went. He seeks input on how our child is doing after the session.
Markus’ involvement has extended well beyond providing OT services. Markus worked with our child’s speech therapist to modify and improve her approach so it was more in concert with the OT therapy. With the two working more closely in concert, notable gains were achievable. Markus has also been instrumental in recommending and finding a number of other skilled therapists and specialists that have played a critical role in helping our child.
He’s always coaching, always teaching. We have learned so much from him. This even extends to others he has helped us bring on. We could tell right from the beginning that our PT was taught by Markus, as she brings the same level of care, skill and passion to the therapy she provides.
Working with him is much more than a therapist. He is deeply passionate for what he does and the connection he makes with children and their parents.
In-person OT • Sensory Gym DesignAS, mother of baby to Toddler
We started working with Markus when my baby was only 10 months old as I’m a huge believer in early intervention and Markus played a big role in getting him to walk. He’s an OT but worked with our baby almost like a PT, combining sensory and movement HOLISTICALLY and really seemed to know how to connect our kiddo to his body. The improvement within only a few sessions was astounding.
“Uncle Markus” as my now toddler fondly calls him, also has such an incredible way of implementing therapy through deeply engaging play. My son never sees or reacts to Markus like it’s therapy but more like this is my fun uncle here to do throws, climbs, and games! Yet he is so thoughtful around each small and big decision during the hour, from the music to the physical exercises to the sensory activities, each step is well thought out and has a clear purpose that you can’t see if you’re simply observing. He brings the most cutting edge research from academia into practical exercises that have really transformed our son. We are so grateful to have him in our life and my son has been doing so well, racing past every milestone thanks to him!
Also, we’re so happy with the sensory gym that Markus designed and put together for us. From beginning to end I didn’t have to lift a finger other than admiring the initial design to watching the final product come to life. Markus honored our agreed upon budget and was able to find us good connections for the labor.
Most importantly, our kiddo loves the space and is always so happy to play (but really work out!) in there and always wants to show it off to friends. We are so happy with the experience and would be delighted to recommend his Gym service to anyone!
In-person OTOzlem, mother of Zozan
I came across the name, Markus Jarrow, when I was desperately researching for an occupational therapist who could help with my daughter’s sensory issues. His convincing article on sensory processing explained how sensory integration therapy can help children with their anxiety and develop confidence in them. I was thrilled to see that he was offering therapy in NYC.
From the first evaluation session on, Markus was a great observer, assessing changing needs, talents, and developments at every step. He had a deep sense of children’s and families’ wellbeing with a focus on both areas of strength to build upon and areas which are challenging for the individual child.
What impressed our family most was that Markus was not interested in picking a category for a child and offering therapy from this generalized category, such as autism, ADHD, etc. but rather figuring out the complexities of an individual child and coming up with each session accordingly. He was understanding, sympathetic, and playful. He challenged my daughter to help overcome her anxieties, but did so gently and playfully.
As a result, my daughter had great pleasure in going to each session, which was previously difficult with other therapists, who were too repetitive in their sessions. She considered Markus a good friend and remembers him as such, now years after our last session.
In-person OTJen, mother of Phoenix
Our son has been working with Markus since he was 10 months old. We were frustrated with other programs and services and felt stuck until we met Markus. We've watched our son blossom, grow and steadily make progress on many fronts in large part thanks to Markus. He is warm, positive, thoughtful and extremely knowledgeable, and our son lights up when they are together. We are so thankful he is part of our support system, and cannot recommend him highly enough!
Clinical Supervision Tova Suslovich MS, OTR/L
One of the best career decisions I made was to find a place of work where I could receive top of the line supervision and mentorship. Working with Markus for the last 10 years has made me the therapist that I am today.
Markus’ passion for relationship-based therapy, sensory integration therapy, and neurodevelopmental treatment, coupled with his expertise in these areas and his skill in teaching and coaching therapists, make him the optimal mentor and coach for any therapist passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and families. Markus’ belief in each child’s right to feel safe and to thrive are powerful forces with strong ripple effects when he treats, coaches and mentors.
I have spent hours in Markus’ office dissecting and analyzing video of myself, himself, and other therapists in both group and individual collaborative meetings, with an atmosphere of positive critical analysis which fostered skill building, confidence, and results-oriented, positive clinical experiences for the children and families as well as therapists involved.
Even after leaving the amazing practice where he supervised and coached, I continue to benefit from Markus’ ongoing mentorship, advice, and assistance when I ask for guidance or listen to him coach colleagues.
Clinical Supervision Robyn Carny MS, OTR/L
Markus has been a great mentor and inspiration during my OT career. He is extremely knowledgeable and passionate about what he does. He forms amazing connections with children and parents. Markus is a fun and dynamic occupational therapist who treats the whole child with expertise in multiple treatment approaches.
He really understands each child’s strengths and needs and is adept in most efficiently addressing the areas of difficulty and maximizing the child’s potential. His passion and creativity are contagious which help to make him such a good mentor. Despite his training, I think all of his artistic endeavors and worldly adventures play a big part in him and his approach being so uniquely effective. He’s a really cool, fun guy and the kids love him. These relationships help open the doors for him to do what he does best.
Clinical Supervision Krina Desai PT, DPT, PCS
Markus has been and continues to be an excellent mentor. As a new therapist in a sensory-motor gym, Markus and I had weekly meetings where he took the time to review treatment videos I had taken.
Together, we would analyze the environmental set up and the patient’s movement patterns, and discuss how to alter treatment when necessary. He had a very methodical approach to care and regularly taught me about the importance of prep activities to target specific muscle groups and sensory systems as well as the importance of ensuring proper alignment through environmental set up. He educated me about the importance of hand placement in treatment and how variations in placement can elicit different muscular responses.
Additionally, he was able to apply theories of NDT and dynamic systems to each individual patient. Not only did I learn an immense amount from our one-on-one mentorship sessions, but I also learned a great deal watching Markus treat his patients. He continues to be someone I turn to for continued guidance throughout my career.
Clinical Supervision Jessica Loughlin LCSW
I had the lovely opportunity of working with Markus at The SMILE Center for several years. As a social worker and DIR clinician, I’ve always greatly enjoyed Markus’ perspectives and how he weaves his OT work with DIR / Floortime.
We’ve shared some unique cases over the years and it’s always a pleasure to get deep into clinical talks with him. He has so much to share but is also endlessly curious, picking my brain, diving deeper into play and the socio-emotional side of things. Markus has such a deep understanding of sensory processing and postural control through his expertise in sensory integration and NDT, and the way he links it all together with DIR/Floortime is quite special. He’s certainly one of my favorite clinicians to brainstorm cases with and as a DIR instructor at ICDL, I’ve always wished he’d come teach courses with me! But I’m happy to hear he’s going to be sharing more of his clinical approach on this platform of his.
Clinical Supervision Meaghen Neumann MS, CCC-SLP, TSSLD
Markus and I worked together for 7 years at The SMILE Center in NYC. He was my clinical supervisor in various roles; first as a staff SLP learning more about floortime, NDT and sensory integration, then as the Speech department supervisor learning how to mentor and guide a department of SLPs.
We immediately connected on our love for travel and our mutual desire to empower families and their children to achieve their brightest potential. His style of supervision challenged me to dig deep, think critically and truly understand the therapeutic techniques I was utilizing. His ability to problem solve and utilize traditional and non traditional therapy techniques across disciplines was inspiring.
He helped me understand how OT, PT and Speech/Feeding disciplines share integral, foundational goals. I credit much of my understanding of sensory integration, regulation and whole body treatment techniques to him. He is an inspiring clinician, trusted colleague and a thoughtful and honest mentor. I strongly recommend him as a clinician, supervisor and colleague!
Clinical Supervision Liza Feinstein MS, OTR/L
Markus has a clear passion for teaching, mentoring, and training clinicians. His teaching style is effectively clear and inspiring. I leave meetings with him feeling motivated and prepared. Any time I have been in a clinical rut, Markus has problem solved with me to find an approach that has been successful.
Under Markus’ mentorship, I have seen immense growth in my own clinical skills and the way I approach treatment. He has a wealth of knowledge to share, and has provided me with the tools to cultivate my own treatment style under the principles he teaches.
Clinical Supervision Meera Alexander MOT, OTR/L
Markus was my very first mentor upon the beginning of my OT career. He was patient, invested and extremely knowledgeable in NDT, Sensory-Integration, and Floortime treatment approaches. I knew I wanted to work with children with sensory processing and motor disorders and I am very fortunate to have been under his guidance for more than 3 years.
It is clear that Markus' work with neurodiverse children is more to him than a job. He brings his own talents in music and humorous personality into his treatment sessions. His priority is always to make the child feel safe and connected so that therapy is both fun and successful. As a musician he would implement sound, rhythm and song into his sessions. I have witnessed first hand of utilizing what comes natural to him to help a child co-regulate, even on the worst of days!
He stresses the importance of meeting a child where they are developmentally and emotionally. Looking at the "whole-child" means seeing beyond a child's skills and abilities, and truly understanding and respecting them as their own selves. By doing so, we as therapists are required to recognize how we can regulate ourselves in a given moment, so that we can positively connect with the child.
Markus encouraged therapists to pause and assess in the moment, in order to problem solve the course of treatment within a session, as well as between sessions. He taught me that you can and should plan ahead but also learn how to throw away a plan if it's not right for that day or the next 5 minutes.
He says, "Don't be boring." which seems easy, but it's not a lot of the time! It requires figuring out how to be creative in your own unique way and believing that you can help someone, and yourself, by getting out of your comfort zone.
I am grateful for his impact on my own professional journey as an OT as I continue to use what he's taught me on a daily basis.
Clinical Supervision Kelly Stafford MOT, OTR/L, C/NDT, BCP
Markus has a contagious energy and passion that is inspiring to be around. He played an instrumental and life-changing role in my development as a new therapist craving clinical growth.
Markus has an ability to help highlight your strengths as an individual, and to help bring out your best therapeutic-self. Over the years he continually challenged me and pushed me to analyze each child in a deeper, more comprehensive way— for a more thoughtful, holistic, and effective approach to treatment.
He aligns his talents, skills, and years of experience to best adapt to your learning style, and your goals as a therapist all while making the process of learning fun and rewarding. The ultimate reward is seeing the ways in which you can make a difference for your children and families.
As I evolved into a more seasoned clinician and supervisory role, he continued to support me and provide his insight, and advice while also providing the space I needed to assure my autonomy and my confidence.
I am so grateful and appreciative; I truly wouldn’t be the clinician I am today without Markus’ mentorship.
Clinical Supervision Dr. Ramona Estevez OTD, OTR/L
I met Markus Jarrow in 2003 while completing my first internship as an occupational therapy assistant in a preschool setting. I had the amazing opportunity to work with Markus who took over for my initial supervisor who was ill. Markus’ dedication, compassion, and love for OT is what awakened my interest to grow in this field. He always displayed astounding creativity and personal touch when treating and was determined to make every minute of treatment count and of course “make miracles.” Markus became ecstatic every time a child accomplished something new or made gains. After the completion of that fieldwork, I secretly made Markus my mentor for life.
Markus’ caring, nurturing, and humane personality traits captivated me and influenced my perspective, my therapeutic use of self, and who I wanted to be as a therapist. Throughout the years, I’ve continued to reach out to Markus for advice and guidance while finishing my master's and doctorate degrees. Markus served as one of my thesis readers and his diligent feedback was invaluable during this process. Presently, I’m a doctor of occupational therapy and Markus greatly impacted me along my journey.
We need more Markus’ “in a world… where my skin is afraid of everything” - a lyric from his song, In a World, about a young child with Sensory Processing Disorder. Recorded by his band, Indianburn, with Markus on drums in 2003
Clinical Supervision Danielle Calabro MA, CCC-SLP
Markus has always had a magical way of engaging children, literally getting down to their level and making learning fun and exciting. His creativity, ingenuity, and genuine compassion shine through everything he does. He has changed the lives of countless children far and wide and has shaped the minds of many therapists along the way (my own included). He has instilled the importance of quiet observation, thinking outside the box, designing whatever it is you may need to help your child achieve their goal, and most of all, never ever calling it “work!”
As a speech language pathologist, I thought I was taught everything there was to know in school. Then I met Markus, and I realized how much I still had to learn in terms of collaborating with other disciplines, taking courses I thought were “outside my field,” and pushing myself to no longer treat children inside a vacuum. I worked alongside Markus, sharing the challenges and joys of our many unique kids. We problem sought together to make great things happen – designing our own gym equipment out of pool noodles when we had a limited budget, working on proper seating to make speech and feeding tasks more effective, incorporating sensory activities into daily speech sessions, and implementing a school-wide protocol for new therapies that crossed all disciplines and environments.
As a co-worker and then a supervisor, Markus influenced the way I would view and treat children for many years to come. His voice is always in my head whenever I meet a new child – watch and listen and see what they can do. I think he coined the term “fidget toys” long before they were all the rage and thanks to him, I will never start a session without them in my bag. Most of all, he taught me to see the beauty of what kids can do instead of just what they need help doing. He does not only treat a child’s “OT goals” but treats the child as whole human being, addressing all their needs and cheering on all their successes. Years later, I am left wishing that my entire caseload could meet him because I am quitesure that no one out there could do it better.
Clinical Supervision Sandy Song OTR/L
As a clinician, Markus is truly world-class. His treatment style is focused, methodical and intense, yet equally full of joy, creativity, movement and play. Markus is an expert in sensory processing, motor systems, and DIR/Floortime, at a level that leaves an indelible impact on the treatment outcome of every child and family he works with.
Families and colleagues who have worked with Markus can all attest to his remarkable ability to bring out the best in every client. As a therapist, I am constantly inspired by his creativity and ability to challenge, celebrate and empower each and every one of his clients.
Markus’ knowledge base and experience is only outshined by his love for teaching and sharing with others. His mentorship and treatment style has profoundly impacted my own approach, and any therapist or family that has the opportunity to learn from him has signed up for a masterclass in OT.
Oh and he also designs sensory gyms and makes custom gym equipment. He built a custom metal swing system with mats and a walking bar for a client of mine and made a really nice scooter ramp and zipline platform for the clinic I am the director of. He does it all :)
Clinical Supervision Sandra Koch PT
Markus helped me tremendously when I made a transition as a PT into pediatrics. He has a hands-on, dedicated, passionate approach to coaching and mentoring, and helped challenge and motivate me in a way that renewed my passion in my profession through critical clinical rationale and witnessing the ensuing therapeutic and functional results in my clients.
Markus assisted me in setting a strong foundational knowledge in NDT, sensory integration, and DIR-Floortime based approaches, that took my treatment skills to the next level and made me a more well-rounded and skilled physical therapist. I’m forever grateful.
Clinical Supervision Roberta Rodrigues PT DPT
I had the luck to have Markus as my mentor and clinical director for 2 years.
Markus has a fun and creative personality and inspired me with his amazing ability to combine sensory integration and NDT. We had enriching clinical discussions and he taught me so much about sensory integration that completely changed my practice as a PT.
I am definitely a more understanding therapist and can see beyond the physical difficulties because of the teachings I received from him as he added the OT perspective to my PT mindset.
Markus was also essential to help me understand how paperwork was done in the US. As a Brazilian therapist who had recently moved to the US, it was crucial to me to have his patient guidance and expertise in writing reports, assessments, and IEPs.
I carry the experience Markus shared with me in my practice everywhere I go and am thankful for all that I learned throughout the years we worked together.
Clinical Supervision Natalie Rucci MS, CCC-SLP
I have had the pleasure of working with Markus Jarrow for several years at the Block Institute in Brooklyn, New York. First as part of the therapy team and then he served as my clinical supervisor. Although it was many, many years ago, Markus’ ability to build rapport with the children, get them to work through difficult tasks, form positive relationships with families and encourage all therapists, including myself to work outside of their comfort zone, was definitely an unforgettable experience.
To be able to write my thoughts about our time working together with such ease speaks for itself. As a speech- language pathologist, Markus introduced me to the topics of sensory integration, therapeutic listening, NDT, the importance of positioning and alternative “out of the box” therapy ideas. It was definitely not the norm for a SLP to provide sessions in a pool, attend Rona Alexander conferences, own therapeutic listening CDs, participate in brushing protocols, and be blessed with a sensory area, (swing included!) in the speech room.
His influence, knowledge, guidance, and support is ever present in my therapy today. He never showed fear when presented with difficult cases and always stayed positive. He never focused on what the child could not do; but dug deep to find strengths our team could build off of. It was amazing to see him provide therapy to a student utilizing NDT principles and how the student’s face would light up and immediately benefit. It was from that where I learned the importance of working from the inside out and of body positioning and preparation. I always think of him when I stabilize a student’s feet on a box or spend time searching for the correct chair and table heights!
He was a big believer in team meetings and working together to make the best plan possible for our children. I will never forget him gently correcting me when I told a student that we needed to finish our “work”. He told me therapy isn’t supposed to be work for a child and it was my job to achieve the goals while having fun. He was always able to put himself on the child’s level. Markus truly opened my eyes to new, more innovative ways to provide speech therapy and for that I will forever be grateful.
Clinical Supervision Sara Loesch MS, OTR/L
I have known Markus for almost 12 years. He was my OT clinical director/supervisor for 8 years and has always been a mentor to me. In those years, and the ones following, we also developed a friendship. He helped shape me as a clinician and a writer. We went on a long journey together improving my evaluation skills and report writing. I admire him for his passion and creativity, not only as a clinician but in his music, photography, travel and adventure. His energy is contagious, he is extremely dedicated, and every child/parent he works with is very lucky.