Laurie Hopkins

Laurie’s contributions to Center for Spectrum Services community are informed by forty years of practice as a pediatric occupational therapist. She joined the leadership team in 1994 and serves as department head to the OT/PT and adapted physical education staff at both the Kingston and Ellenville sites. Prior to coming on board at Spectrum Services, Laurie worked in the metropolitan area in hospitals, schools, and community-based early intervention programs, as well as maintaining her own private practice.

Since coming to Spectrum Services, she has specialized in the sensory processing needs of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Laurie is passionate about supporting staff, students, family members, college interns, and other professionals in developing an ever-expanding understanding of the sensory processing needs for those both on and off the spectrum. To this end she has created many workshops, collaborating with other therapists, to craft educational experiences that deliver rich visual imagery, sensory experiences, scientific explanations, and meaningful practical applications.

Laurie is a graduate of SUNY Downstate Medical Center, where she earned her BS in Occupational Therapy, and of Bank Street College of Education and Teacher’s College Columbia University, where she was awarded an MA and MS in Education, respectively.

In addition, Laurie is deeply committed to empowering her staff by practicing principles of dynamic supervision and leadership, so as to facilitate a culture where professionals endeavor to offer their personal best, both individually and collectively.