Jordan Adolf Dahl, OTR/L

When Families Feel Like They've Tried Everything

I've met so many parents at free screens and evaluations who come in anxious and barely holding it together. I'll simply ask, "Tell me why we're here today," and they break down in tears because they don't know what else to do. Most families have already tried everything they can think of. Rewards. Consequences. Sticker charts. Bribery. We've all been there. They've tried suggestions from parents, grandparents, daycare teachers, and friends, yet nothing seems to be working. More than anything, these families want someone to listen, validate what they're experiencing, and give them practical tools that help not only their child succeed but their entire family succeed.

​

A Little Fun. A Little Work.

After the evaluation, our first therapy session is all about building trust with both your child and your family. I always tell parents our sessions are "a little bit of fun and a little bit of work." I don't want anyone to feel overwhelmed, so we introduce new concepts gradually and build on them over time. I've learned that giving families a small amount of home programming each week is often the most successful because it's realistic, manageable, and much more likely to become part of your daily routine.

​

The Best Part of My Day

I know therapy is making a difference when I walk into the waiting room and see smiles on both the child's and parent's faces.

My favorite words are, "I was so proud of them. Let me tell you what happened." Those conversations remind me that progress isn't just happening during therapy sessions. It's happening at home, at school, and in everyday life. It's also about helping parents feel more confident in their own ability to support their child. 

​

You Don't Have to Have All the Answers

I always encourage parents to ask me anything. One of my favorite jokes is when someone says, "I have a question," and I reply, "I have an answer. It may not be the answer you want or the answer you're looking for, but I'll give you one." Therapists are human, too. We don't always know everything, but we know a lot of wonderful people who do. If I don't have the answer, I'll do my best to find it or connect you with someone who can. Families often tell me they appreciate my communication, my willingness to listen, and how dedicated I am to helping their child succeed. 

​

A Little About Me

I was born and raised in Bismarck and earned my Master's in Occupational Therapy from the University of North Dakota. After graduation, my husband and I moved to Minneapolis, where I worked for three years in an inpatient pediatric mental and behavioral health unit before returning home to practice outpatient pediatrics. My husband and I have two children, Jett and Jolie, and two Labrador Retrievers that keep us busy. Fun fact: my husband and I have the same first name! When I'm not at Kids In Motion, you'll usually find me exercising, listening to podcasts, spending time outdoors, going to the lake, traveling, or chasing my two little ones around. 

​

Let's Start the Conversation

If you're wondering whether your child could benefit from therapy, reach out.

It never hurts to ask questions or talk with someone who understands. We offer free developmental screens for children under 5, and even if you're not sure where to start, we're happy to talk through your concerns and help you decide what the next step might be.