Building Bridges: Prakriti's Bridge Team Grows with the Addition of Dedicated Specialists

More Hands to Foster Growth and Independence

The Bridge Team at Prakriti was established in partnership with the Centre for Research Intervention & Analysis (CRIA), founded by Dr. Priyanka Bhabhu (the first Board Certified Behavior Analyst – Doctoral ( BCBA-D ) in India).

The Bridge Team has been an integral part of Prakriti for the past 13 years. Comprising over 40 trained ABA therapists (Shadows), the team offers individualized, one-on-one support to children with neurodivergent needs.

The Bridge Program was conceptualized as a vital intermediary—bridging the gap between early intervention and mainstream schooling. Its core purpose is to provide tailored support and coordinated care during this critical transition phase. Understanding the unique sensory, comprehension, and communication challenges neurodivergent learners may face in inclusive classroom settings, the team adopts a "just enough support" approach. This strategy ensures children receive the assistance they need while empowering them to engage more independently within enriched school environments.

Through this model, the Bridge Team facilitates meaningful inclusion, enabling students to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Over the last decade, it has continuously evolved—driven by a commitment to building enriched, supportive, and inclusive spaces where every child feels seen, supported, and truly belongs.

Prakriti is delighted to welcome these talented individuals to our special education department, further strengthening our commitment to inclusive learning.

Hello! I’m Neha Gupta, an Occupational Therapist with over a decade of experience working with children and young adults across a wide range of developmental and physical conditions.

I hold a Bachelor’s in Occupational Therapy from Pt. Deendayal Institute for Physically Handicapped, New Delhi, and have had extensive clinical training from prestigious hospitals like Lok Nayak, Safdarjung, and Indian Spinal Injury Centre.

Throughout my career at institutions such as Aspal International School and SanchETNA (Billabong High International School), I have developed and implemented individualized intervention plans, worked closely with multidisciplinary teams, and supported students both in-person and online. My experience spans cases involving autism, ADHD, Down’s syndrome, cerebral palsy, stroke rehabilitation, sensory integration, and more.

I believe in creating adaptive, meaningful interventions that promote independence, development, and joy. Whether working one-on-one as a shadow teacher or leading group activities like yoga and art, my goal has always been to make therapy engaging and effective. I'm deeply committed to empowering children with the tools they need to thrive both in school and beyond.

Hello! I am Chesta Pandey, a professional in the field of Special Education. I hold a Diploma in Special Education (Intellectual Disability) from the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI).

I've furthered my expertise through a Master Trainer program for Direct Support Professionals from Keystone Institute India. My experience includes working with varied student populations, developing and implementing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), conducting functional skills assessments, and delivering individual intervention sessions, incorporating methodologies such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and Verbal Behavior Analysis (VBA). I have contributed to several organizations, including Action for Autism, Ramagya School, and Keystone Institute India.

I joined Prakriti School as a Behaviour Support Specialist, and I'm eager to support the school's inclusive learning environment. I look forward to continuing my journey in special education, guided by empathy, innovation, and a belief in every child’s ability to shine.

Hello! I am Suvashri Jena, an Occupational Therapist

I hold a Master of Occupational Therapy (Neurology) from Jaipur College of Technology (JCOT), Maharaj Vinayak Global University, Jaipur, and a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy from Swami Vivekananda National Institute of Rehabilitation Training and Research (SVNIRTAR), Cuttack, Odisha.

I have provided occupational therapy services across diverse clinical domains including neurology, orthopedics, and psychiatry. My professional strengths lie in patient evaluation, intervention planning, goal setting, and direct patient care. I’ve worked with organizations such as HealthCare atHOME (HCAH), Angels Foundation Wings, and Punarbasa—a non-governmental organization in Odisha focused on the rights and rehabilitation of people with disabilities, including women and children.

I bring with me not just clinical expertise, but also a strong work ethic, adaptability, empathy, and a lifelong commitment to learning as an Occupational Therapist.

Hello! I’m Khushi Chauhan, a Special Education Teacher with a Master’s degree in Psychology from Chaudhary Charan Singh University.

My areas of interest include autism, child psychology, behavioral analysis, and elementary education.

I have experience working with children with diverse needs and enjoy creating supportive and inclusive learning environments. During my internship at the Institute of Human Behaviour and Allied Sciences (IHBAS), I had the opportunity to learn more about mental health and how to support individuals in practical settings. I believe in being patient, observant, and working closely with both students and their families to bring out the best in every child. I am excited to join Prakriti as a Junior Behaviour Support Specialist.

Hello! I am Kritika Chauhan, an aspiring Special Educator

I have completed my Integrated B.A.B.Ed in Special Education from Amity Institute of Rehabilitation Sciences, Amity University, Noida, in 2024. With a passion for supporting children with diverse learning needs, I am dedicated to creating inclusive and supportive learning environments that help foster both academic and personal growth.

Through various internships, including at organizations such as Noida Deaf Society and Sunrise Learning Special School, I have gained hands-on experience working with children with hearing impairments, visual impairments, autism spectrum disorder, and intellectual disabilities. My expertise includes IEP development, behavior management, and differentiated instruction, all while maintaining a focus on personalized, student-centered learning.

I am eager to contribute my skills as a Junior Behaviour Support Specialist and continue my journey in Special Education, where I can make a meaningful impact on the lives of students and help them reach their fullest potential.

Click here to read more about OT Program at Prakriti

Living up to its name, the ever-expanding Bridge Team's interventions have successfully bridged the gap for many children, enabling their smooth transition into mainstream schools, and this remains a central focus of their work.