KC:DT was founded on a bold belief:

We See Individual Differences as the Norm, Not the Exception

At Kansas City Developmental Therapies, we exist to move the world forward through the power of relationship. What started as two DIR®-trained therapists who couldn't find the kind of practice they wanted to work for has become one of only approximately 30 DIR®-accredited organizations worldwide.

Our Story

Emily and Brookes both discovered the Developmental, Individual Differences, Relationship-based (DIR®) model while working in Chicago. When Emily moved back to Kansas City, she was the only DIR® practitioner in the area. When Brookes followed, looking for someone who understood this approach, they found each other—and realized they shared a vision for something different.

We started KC:DT because we believe therapy should honor who your child is, not try to change them into who others think they should be. While other approaches focus on compliance and "fixing" behaviors, we seek connection before correction. We find the gleam in every child's eye.

What Makes Us Different

We're DIR® Specialists. Our accreditation means we're held to the highest standards of this relationship-based approach. Both Emily and Brookes teach DIR® methodology internationally and maintain active caseloads because staying clinical keeps us grounded in what really works.

We Treat the Whole Family. The magic isn't just with us—it's what we help you do at home, during bath time, at meals, in everyday moments. We empower families as essential partners, not passive observers.

We Champion Individual Differences. Your child isn't broken. They're uniquely wired. Our job is to meet them where they are and support their journey to thriving—whatever that looks like for them.

Recognition & Accreditations

  • KC:DT is proud to be one of only approximately 30 DIR-accredited organizations worldwide. This prestigious accreditation from the International Council on Development and Learning (ICDL) represents our unwavering commitment to providing high-fidelity Floortime therapy that truly honors the principles and values of the DIR approach.

  • We're honored to have been nominated for multiple "Best of Kansas City" awards, including:

    • Best Speech Therapists

    • Best Physical Therapists

    • Best Mental Health Therapists

    These nominations reflect not just our clinical expertise, but our community's recognition that we do therapy differently—with heart, with joy, and with deep respect for every family we serve.

  • Our commitment to excellence extends beyond our clinic walls through partnerships with respected organizations and institutions. We collaborate with schools, community programs, and other providers to spread our relationship-based approach and create more inclusive environments for all children.

Our Values in Action

Shared Joy drives everything we do. When a child experiences genuine joy in connection with another person, powerful developmental pathways become accessible. You'll see it in the gleam in their eye during sessions.

Self-Compassion is how we sustain our capacity for caring. We model the kindness and reflection we want to see in the world, understanding that growth happens through relationship, not perfection.

Development never stops. We're committed to continuous learning, whether we're taking courses from autistic adults, diving into the latest research, or stretching ourselves like a rubber band—growing without breaking.

We're Not Here to Change Who Your Child Is

We're here to support your whole family on the journey to thriving, whatever that means for you. Because in a world where individual differences are truly supported, everyone has the opportunity to flourish.