Sharon Bareiss – Occupational Therapist – Strubensvalley

Sharon Bareiss - Occupational Therapist - Strubensvalley

Sharon Bareiss is a seasoned Occupational Therapist at Strubensvalley Therapy Centre in Strubens Valley, Roodepoort. She earned her BSc in Occupational Therapy from the University of the Witwatersrand in 1988 and initially worked in adult psychiatry, where she refined her clinical skills and served as a student tutor at WITS. Consequently, Sharon brings a strong foundation in therapeutic techniques and client-centered care to her pediatric practice.

Early in her personal life, Sharon became the primary caregiver for her daughter, who faced severe physical and intellectual disabilities. This hands-on experience enriched her empathy and deepened her understanding of sensory processing and motor challenges. Moreover, it fueled her passion for supporting children and families as they navigate complex developmental journeys. Therefore, she specializes in early developmental assessment and targeted sensory integration strategies that promote confidence and independence.

Within the Centre, Sharon collaborates closely with educational psychologists, speech therapists, and remedial specialists. Furthermore, she mentors junior therapists and leads quarterly workshops on assistive technology and sensory-based interventions, ensuring that the team stays at the forefront of best practices.

Services

• Developmental Assessment & Therapy (0–4 Years)
  Sharon uses standardized tools—such as the Peabody Developmental Motor Scales—to evaluate motor milestones, social engagement, and adaptive skills. Consequently, she crafts tailored programs that focus on strength-building exercises and play-based milestone practice.

• Motor & Perceptual Development
  She delivers targeted activities—like bead threading, obstacle courses, and handwriting drills—to refine fine and gross motor skills. Moreover, Sharon employs dynamic seating systems and therapy balls to boost postural control and coordination.

• Sensory Integration Approach
  In the Centre’s sensory gym, she guides children through structured input using swings, textured tunnels, and pressure vests. As a result, clients learn to regulate hypersensitivity and hyposensitivity, which improves attention and emotional regulation.

• Task-Centered Group Therapy
  Sharon facilitates small-group activities—such as cooking projects and gardening tasks—that build functional life skills, teamwork, and self-confidence. Therefore, children practice real-world tasks in a supportive, social setting.

• DIR® Floortime
  She coaches parents in Floortime strategies, engaging them in child-led play that strengthens emotional bonds and cognitive growth. Furthermore, Sharon provides video-feedback sessions that help families replicate techniques at home.

Additional Information

Strubensvalley Therapy Centre features a child-friendly environment with bright décor, natural light, and observation windows so caregivers can watch without interrupting sessions. Furthermore, the Centre utilizes a secure digital portal for families to review progress notes, session clips, and milestone charts between appointments.

Sharon offers both in-person and telehealth follow-ups, which ensures continuity of care for busy families. Additionally, she schedules bi-monthly multidisciplinary case reviews to synchronize therapy goals with school and home routines. Consequently, interventions remain aligned with each child’s evolving needs.

Her practice style combines warmth, structure, and collaboration: she invites active participation from children and caregivers alike. Therefore, families feel informed and empowered at every stage. To give your child expert, individualized support, schedule a consultation today with Sharon Bareiss and discover how her compassionate, evidence-based approach can foster lasting developmental success.