THERAPISTS

Sheila Poteshman’s unparalleled expertise is in the accurate evaluation and successful treatment of children with sensory motor processing challenges, neuromotor issues, and autism spectrum disorders. In the neonatal ICU at Northwestern University, she developed and implemented treatment plans for newborns and continued to follow up on their progress in Northwestern’s renowned pediatric clinic.

Other hospital inpatient and outpatient settings have included the Medical Center at Michael Reese Hospital and the University of Illinois in Chicago. At Cuneo Columbus Medical Center Sheila developed and implemented a highly successful and widely used child development program for medical residents in pediatric training.

In addition to being a founding partner at Capable Kids,  Sheila actively consults with private and public schools, providing invaluable care to children and their families in a school setting.  Sheila has achieved multiple certifications in Sensory Integration, Neurodevelopmental treatment of young babies and children, and Listening Therapy, all of which have contributed to her reputation as one of the leading Occupational Therapists on the Northshore.

Vicki Abrams Kelly is a highly experienced pediatric occupational therapist and a founding partner of Capable Kids of the Northshore, established in 2005.  She graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy and a Wisconsin Public School Certification. 

Vicki has a wealth of experience working as a pediatric occupational therapist in a wide variety of settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, diagnostic centers, home health, public and private schools, and residential treatment centers for children with intellectual challenges.  At the Developmental Institute of Michael Reese Hospital, Vicki was the primary occupational therapist for the Infant Initiatives Program. As the pediatric director of Comprehensive Therapeutics, Vicki managed a large staff of pediatric therapists, as well as developed and implemented numerous programs for the company’s private pediatric clinic, the Therapeutic Learning Center. 

In addition to her work with children and families at Capable kids, Vicki also serves as the primary occupational therapist at Lake Forest Country Day School.  Vicki specializes in the evaluation and treatment of children of all ages and challenges, including sensory processing difficulties, neuromotor problems, autism, ADHD, handwriting, and various motor and developmental delays. Her special training and certifications include Neuro-developmental Treatment, Sensory Integration, Myofascial Release, and Therapeutic Listening. 

Along with her extensive knowledge and expertise in pediatric therapy, Vicki has a passion for helping children reach their full potential.  She believes strongly in supporting parents, as well as collaborating with teachers and other professionals, to maximize each child’s progress.  In her free time Vicki enjoys running, reading, hiking, decorating, traveling, and spending time with her husband and her ever expanding blended family!

Julie Cairo is a pediatric speech-language pathologist with 25 years of experience.  Her passion is working with young children and their families, and she has been credentialed as an early intervention provider for many years.  Her experience also includes providing services in a variety of settings including hospitals, pediatric clinics, private practice, home and daycare environments.  She enjoys collaborating with teams of professionals, caregivers, educators and others to maximize the child’s full potential.  She recognizes the importance of involving the child’s family and caregivers in the facilitation of speech and language development.  Julie specializes in treating children with speech and language delays, apraxia, articulation and phonological disorders, sensory processing disorder and other developmental delays.

Dr. Nicole Kovalevsky is a dedicated pediatric occupational therapist with a strong focus on mindfulness-based practice. She holds a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy (OTD) from Rush University in Chicago, IL, and a Bachelor’s degree in Health: Science, Society, and Policy from Brandeis University.

With extensive experience working with children across the lifespan, Nicole has developed expertise in treating a wide range of pediatric diagnoses, including autism spectrum disorder, developmental delays, anxiety, and sensory processing disorders. She has worked in both early intervention and outpatient settings, tailoring her therapeutic approach to meet the individual needs of each child and family.

Nicole is deeply passionate about integrating mindfulness techniques into occupational therapy, recognizing their profound impact on emotional regulation, self-awareness, and overall well-being. Her practice is grounded in a holistic approach that fosters not only developmental progress but also supports mental and emotional growth.

Nicole’s commitment to empowering children and their families is evident in her collaborative, strengths-based approach, which combines evidence-based interventions with a compassionate, mindful presence.