Today on Face to Face, Genevieve Kyle Lefebvre sits down with Vivienne Symington, founder of the Symington Symbiotic Foundation, to delve into the remarkable work her organization does to support children with disabilities in the Tri-Cities. Symington’s foundation is a unique local resource, dedicated to providing innovative therapies tailored to each child’s specific needs. Through a collaborative and integrated approach, the foundation offers services that enhance the development and quality of life for children facing physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges.

Geneviève Kyle Lefebvre – Local Journalism Initiative

Symington explains that the foundation’s therapy programs, including music therapy and movement therapy, are not only about developing skills but also about unlocking the potential within each child. “Our goal is to make therapy engaging and holistic,” she says. By blending various therapeutic techniques, children are empowered to progress in a supportive, engaging environment. Each therapy session is crafted with a mix of creative movement and sensory engagement, helping children develop essential skills in a way that feels natural and fun.

One of the foundation’s distinguishing features is its team-based approach, where therapists from different specializations work in unison. This collaboration ensures that each child’s developmental goals are met from multiple angles, providing them with the comprehensive support they need. For instance, a child working on speech may also benefit from movement therapy, creating a holistic experience that fosters growth on multiple fronts.

Families in the Tri-Cities have access to the foundation’s services through referrals or direct outreach. The foundation collaborates with local schools, aiming to make a positive impact on children’s education and social integration. Symington emphasizes that their work extends beyond therapy, as they play an active role in local schools and communities, supporting inclusion and advocating for children’s needs.

Symington also highlights the foundation’s “Therapy Intensives,” an immersive program offering focused, short-term support for children with specific needs. Designed to provide a significant developmental boost, these intensives offer targeted, high-frequency sessions tailored to each child’s goals.

Through speech and language programs, movement exercises, and integrative therapies, the Symington Symbiotic Foundation has become a lifeline for many families. Community support, Symington notes, is crucial to continuing this vital work. She encourages Tri-Cities residents to contribute by volunteering, raising awareness, or participating in local events to sustain and grow the foundation’s programs. For Symington, the foundation’s approach is more than just therapy; it’s about creating a nurturing space where children with disabilities can thrive and connect with the community around them.