Where Emilie Started
When Emilie started at Cornerstone, she was experiencing problems in her home, therapy and public environments. She struggled with behaviors such as noncompliance, tantrum and physical aggression. Emilie had a difficult time with completing daily tasks independently, which included bathing, dressing, toileting, tooth brushing and handwashing.
How Emilie Improved
During her time at Cornerstone, Emilie has progressed to being over halfway done with Level 3 goals on the Verbal Behavior Milestones Assessment (VB-MAPP). She has worked on improving daily living skills, including grooming, dressing and laundry skills. Emilie has also made great progress on her social skills during her daily Social Thinking group with peers.
One of her previous therapists, Nicole Yehling, spoke at her graduation and shared some touching memories with everyone:
“Normally, I don’t wear red lipstick, but Emilie asked me to wear red lipstick today. I think I speak for everyone when I say how proud we are of her. Emilie has made so much progress. I remember being Emilie’s therapist and knowing I didn’t have to wear make up because she would always want to do it for me. I was so excited to show it off and say that Emilie did my make up. I will always cherish those times. As Emilie’s make up abilities progressed, so did her academics. I watched as she went from counting by ones to tens, to counting by twos and fives up to thirty. I got to see her social skills improve as well. I’m going to miss the dance parties where she would show me all the new moves she learned in dance class. And our make up sessions where Emilie would try to make me look like a celebrity. I’m so excited for what’s in store for Emilie next… [It’s an honor to] say congratulations on graduating, Emilie!”
