Our PHILOSOPHY
The I’mPerfect Place developed from observing the unnecessary stress neurodiverse individuals and their families experience in a neurotypical world. We are a group of professionals and staff dedicated to providing a space where these individuals and their families can let their shoulders drop. Our educational philosophy acknowledges that if an individual is not regulated, learning and demonstrating that knowledge is less likely. Therefore we choose to provide an accommodating learning environment for individuals who learn differently.
Knowing there are neurotypical Learners who prefer a more individualized and supportive learning environment lets us welcome these Learners to our program as well.
We offer support for our community by keeping a ratio of one staff to every three attendees.
Staff is trained in sensorimotor development and differences, conflict & crisis management, the Presumption of Competence, and alternative communication techniques.
ABOUT Our Director
Peggy Schaefer MM, MT-BC is a Board Certified Music Therapist, past member of the Academy of Neurologic Music Therapy and completed her Master’s Degree from Colorado State University. She is the founder of The I’mPerfect Place, a competence-based Learning Center and Summer program. She also provides neurologic music therapy services for the Orange & LA Counties area.
Peggy’s practice includes services for autism and neurodevelopmental differences. Previous work includes program development and treatment services for Scripps Memorial Hospital Encinitas’ Rehabilitation Center.
Currently, Peggy’s work emphasizes sensorimotor development and regulation as it pertains to autism and neurodevelopmental differences. As a therapist, Peggy works primarily with differently-speaking autistic individuals to address their sensorimotor, communication and emotional regulation, with the presumption of competence. She is trained in alternative communication techniques and Course A/Exercise Courses in Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization.
Peggy has served on the Exam Committee for the Certification Board for Music Therapists and completed her Bachelor’s Degree in French horn performance from California State University, Fullerton.
Let’s Get STARTED!
All interested Learners must complete our Intake Form online. In lieu of an Application Fee, we require those interested to attend our 2-part virtual Orientation to learn more about our program and answer your questions.
We know there are many approaches to supporting neurodevelopmental differences. We want to make sure we’re a good fit for you and your family. We therefore may determine we are not the best placement for your needs.
In order for us to adequately support our differently-speaking Learners, those interested MUST have access to and experience with a reliable, competence-based communication strategy. This may include yes/no options, choice-boards or symbolic choice programs such as Proloquo2Go.
STEP 1: Visit our Learn More Page to complete our Intake Form.
STEP 2: When Intake Form is submitted, you will see a link and instructions to register for our Orientation.
STEP 3: Once BOTH parts of the Orientation are completed, we will contact you to complete our application and in-person tour.
STEP 4: Submit application and complete your tour.
Official acceptance to The I’mPerfect Place will be decided after your tour. We understand that along the way you may decide we are not the best option for you. At any point, you may withdraw your application.