Wheezy, a black Labrador retriever with a heart as big as her paws, is more than just a therapy dog—she’s a beloved co-therapist and motivator for young children learning how to navigate the world. Alongside occupational therapist Maeve London, Wheezy helps children with autism engage in fun, play-based sessions that build essential skills in communication, social interaction, and motor development.
Children are often asked to try things in therapy that feel unfamiliar or tough—whether it’s eating a new food, fastening a button, or joining a group game. With Wheezy by their side, those same tasks become opportunities for joy, curiosity, and connection.
“Wheezy creates an inviting and playful bridge to learning,” says Maeve. “Kids light up when she enters the room. Her presence lowers anxiety, boosts motivation, and helps turn challenges into fun and empowering experiences.”
Animal-assisted therapy is a research-backed approach in occupational therapy that brings together licensed clinicians and trained animals to enhance therapy outcomes. Studies show that interactions with therapy animals can reduce stress, support emotional regulation, and improve both verbal and nonverbal communication in children with autism (Berry et al., 2013; O’Haire, 2013).
From tossing a ball to writing the word “SIT” for Wheezy to follow, these activities do more than entertain—they’re clinically designed to promote development while preserving the spirit of play. Examples include:
This unique approach is part of a broader commitment to playful, personalized, and progress-driven care. Bierman Autism Centers offers comprehensive services, including Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Speech and Occupational Therapy, and Diagnostic Evaluations for children ages 18 months to 9 years. Services are designed to empower each child to thrive, building the skills and confidence to meet milestones, foster independence, and celebrate who they are.
For families seeking a trusted partner in their child’s development journey, Bierman Autism Centers offers a welcoming place to start. Our team specializes in working with children ages 18 months to 9 years, using a combination of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Diagnostic Evaluations to support every child’s unique needs.
We understand that every child learns differently—and that every family deserves a care team that listens, collaborates, and celebrates every milestone. Whether you’re just beginning to explore services or looking to make a change, our team is here to help guide you every step of the way.
To learn more about our personalized therapy programs and how we help children build skills in communication, independence, play, and self-advocacy, contact us at start@biermanautism.com or call (800) 931-8113. We’re here to create progress and possibilities®—together.
Bierman Autism Centers is a trusted leader in autism care, dedicated to helping children with autism grow, play, and thrive. Since 2006, Bierman has been transforming lives through play-based, individualized ABA therapy, empowering children to build essential skills like self-advocacy, communication, and independence.
Bierman’s approach combines evidence-based practices with the joy of play, creating an engaging environment where children are excited to learn and grow. With a dual focus on delivering exceptional outcomes for children and developing great clinicians and teachers, Bierman raises the bar on clinical excellence. Inspired by the teaching hospital model, Bierman emphasizes mentorship, training, and collaboration to ensure every child—and every team member—reaches their full potential.
Bierman offers comprehensive services, including ABA therapy, Speech and Occupational Therapies, and diagnostic evaluations, all tailored to meet each child’s unique needs. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and individualized care, Bierman helps children make meaningful progress while providing families with compassionate support throughout their journey.
With over 300 successful graduations and centers in Arizona, Indiana, Massachusetts, North Carolina, New Jersey, Ohio, and Rhode Island, Bierman Autism Centers continues to set the standard in autism care. To learn more about Bierman’s approach and how it is creating progress and possibilities® for children, families, and clinicians, visit www.biermanautism.com.
