.png)
About Meghan Mercedes
Founder of Bridge & Bloom | Developmental Specialist | Family Support Advocate
I bring over 15 years of experience in child development, early intervention, and family support. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Behavioral Psychology, with a strong foundation in both developmental theory and applied behavior strategies. My professional background includes extensive work as an Early Interventionist, Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), and Clinical Trainer. I’ve also served as a preschool teacher, after-school director, and gym director—working with children from as young as 3 weeks to 18 years old across a wide range of developmental stages.
​
In addition to formal academic training, my continued education has focused on neurobiology, primitive reflex integration, sensory processing, and nervous system regulation. I integrate principles from Polyvagal Theory and trauma-informed care into my work, ensuring that emotional safety and nervous system support are central to every plan. This specialized knowledge allows me to approach behavior and development through a whole-child lens—addressing the brain-body connection, emotional regulation, and real-life family dynamics with insight and care.
I’ve worked in the world of disabilities for many years and in various settings. My journey began in 2005 with Special Olympics, and in 2007 I founded an adaptive dance company that combined movement with developmental support. I’ve also partnered with nonprofits to support adults with disabilities in building life skills and greater independence. These experiences continue to shape my approach—one that centers dignity, practicality, and a deep respect for each individual and their support system.
At Bridge & Bloom, I bridge the gap between behavior science and whole-child development—grounding emotional and sensory needs in practical, real-world strategies. I’m here to help families move from daily overwhelm to confident, connected support.
Services
Support that meets you where you are.
Bridge & Bloom provides parent-centered coaching and consultation to support families navigating behavior, sensory needs, emotional development, and everyday routines. Services are designed to be practical, flexible, and tailored to your unique family dynamic.
Our work is grounded in real-life parenting—not rigid programs or one-size-fits-all solutions. Together, we focus on small, sustainable shifts that bring more calm, connection, and confidence to your home.
​
Areas of Support Include:
​
-
Creating home support plans for routines such as sleep, mornings, mealtimes, and transitions
-
Addressing challenging behaviors with compassionate, neurodiversity-affirming strategies
-
Supporting emotional regulation and co-regulation between parent and child
-
Designing sensory-friendly spaces and identifying tools to meet sensory needs
-
Navigating services, evaluations, and systems such as early intervention or school supports
-
Offering ongoing check-ins to adjust strategies as your child and family grow
​
All services are offered virtually in a supportive, non-clinical setting. This work is educational and coaching-based, and is not a replacement for licensed therapy or medical care.
Our Approach to Behavior Support
At Bridge & Bloom, I believe that meaningful behavior change comes from understanding the whole child—not just managing symptoms or eliminating behaviors. While I have training in behavioral psychology and have worked within ABA frameworks in the past, my current approach draws from a broader, more holistic perspective.
I do not rely solely on traditional ABA practices, especially those rooted in high-hour models or extinction-based techniques. I understand that ABA has helped many families, and I deeply respect the professionals and caregivers who have found value in that path. However, I also believe that behavior is communication, and our role is to listen with curiosity—not just correct.
My work centers on:
• Emotional regulation
• Sensory needs
• Co-regulation and connection
• Natural environment supports
• Developmentally respectful strategies
• Strengths-based, neurodiversity-affirming care
Rather than aiming to “fix” behaviors, we explore what those behaviors are telling us and how we can support your child’s needs in a way that builds trust, resilience, and real-world skills.
If your child has participated in ABA or is currently in an ABA program, I’m happy to collaborate or complement that work with additional strategies that focus on emotional well-being, family connection, and everyday growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
01
Do you offer therapy or diagnostic services?
No. I do not provide therapy or formal assessments. My services are educational, coaching-based, and grounded in developmental insight. However, I can help you prepare for evaluations, understand reports, and determine which types of services may be most helpful for your child.
02
Do you follow an ABA model?
While I have formal training in behavioral psychology and years of experience as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), my current approach does not rely solely on traditional ABA practices.
​
I do not use high-hour models or extinction-based methods. Instead, I focus on understanding the why behind behaviors and building strategies that support connection, regulation, and skill development in respectful, neurodiversity-affirming ways.
​
If your child is currently in ABA or has benefited from it, I’m happy to collaborate in a way that complements their existing care. My focus is always on meeting families where they are and offering tools that feel compassionate, practical, and aligned with your values.
03
How often will we meet?
That depends on your needs and comfort level. Some families feel supported after just one or two sessions, while others benefit from ongoing check-ins. Most sessions are held virtually, and we typically meet every 1–2 weeks or monthly based on your goals.
04
Do you take insurance?
I do not accept insurance, as my services are offered as coaching and consultation rather than medical treatment. However, I do offer flexible payment options, including sliding scale rates and session packages to support accessibility for all families. If cost is a concern, feel free to reach out—I'm happy to discuss a rate that works for your situation.