After graduating magna cum laude from Bar Ilan University in Israel with a joint degree in Sociology, Criminology and Psychology, Michelle dedicated her professional life to helping children with special needs achieve their highest potential. In 2003, she obtained her Masters degree in Occupational Therapy from the prestigious program at the University of Southern California, where she was recognized for her academic excellence earning admission to the exclusive Phi Kappa Phi honors society.
Since finishing her studies at the University of Southern California, Michelle continued to grow her knowledge through real world experience in home-based therapy, school-based treatments and clinic-based therapy helping children in a wide range of ages and abilities. Michelle has always been eager to provide her clients with the most up to date, evidence-based therapy in the industry, taking additional courses in areas such as: School-Based Practice, Evidence-Based Practice, Comprehensive Program in Sensory Integration, Assistive Technology, Handwriting Without Tears, Sensory Integration techniques, Autism and ADHD, Behavior interventions, and comprehensive educational advocacy. Michelle is also knowledgeable in low and high-tech accommodations to assist her clients in realizing their maximum potential at home, school, and in the community.
Michelle enjoys sharing her knowledge and experience in Educational Advocacy, the IEP (Individualized Education Plan) Process, Sensory Integration techniques and other Occupational Therapy strategies with parents, caregivers, private schools, and educators to improve quality of life for individuals and their families. Along with providing therapy to children, she continues to lecture and consult at various schools aiding their staff in understanding the tools available to students, advising on the benefits of Sensory Integration and Occupational Therapy strategies.
Michelle Taus is a dedicated IEP/Educational Advocate with more than 21 years of experience helping children with special needs reach their highest potential. After earning a joint degree in Sociology, Criminology, and Psychology from Bar Ilan University in Israel, she pursued a Master's in Occupational Therapy at the University of Southern California in 2003, where she was honored with membership in Phi Kappa Phi. She is also an active member of the Council of Parents, Attorneys, and Advocates (COPAA).
Michelle is a licensed and registered Occupational Therapist with deep expertise in Special Education. She specializes in Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), School-Based Practice, Sensory Integration, Autism, ADHD, Behavior Interventions, and Assistive Technology. Michelle is passionate about helping families secure a free and appropriate public education, and she works closely with her clients to implement low and high-tech accommodations that support them at school, home, and in the community. Michelle currently works as an IEP/Educational Advocate in the Los Angeles area, where she helps families navigate the complex educational system to ensure children with special needs receive the services and support they deserve.
In addition to her work as an Educational Advocate, Michelle has donated her time to Kids Enjoy Exercise Now (KEEN LA), an organization dedicated to helping children with special needs enjoy sports and exercise, while providing parents with much needed respite and resources. In 2017, Michelle was elected to serve on the board of directors. Recently Michelle was recognized for her hard work and dedication to the organization by being elected President of KEEN LA, where she continues to help Special Needs families maximize their potential.
