Integrative Health Support for Special Needs Children & Families
A pediatric-informed, integrative approach that helps families understand the root causes behind behavior, sensory, sleep, digestive, developmental, and neurodivergent challenges—so they can move forward with clarity and direction.
For children with complex behavioral, sensory, sleep, or developmental challenges
We look at the systems behind symptoms: gut, nervous system, movement, and nutrition
Pediatric PT experience + integrative health framework
Caregiver-inclusive support throughout the process
Many families come to me after trying multiple providers, therapies, or strategies—yet still feeling stuck.
You may recognize:
Ongoing behavioral or emotional regulation struggles
Sleep issues that don’t resolve long-term
Digestive or feeding challenges
Sensory sensitivities or overwhelm
Development that feels “off track,” but unclear why
Often, each symptom is addressed separately—but the bigger picture is missed.
I work with children with a wide range of needs, including autism, ADHD, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, developmental delays, sensory processing differences, genetic conditions, and, but not limited to, children with complex health concerns.
When Nothing Seems to Fully Add Up
Families choose Total Vitality because my work brings together:
21+ years as a pediatric physical therapist
Integrative Health Practitioner training (IHP2)
Functional, root-cause thinking
Lived experience as a parent of a child with complex needs. I know what it is like to sit on both sides of the table- as a clinician and as the exhausted parent trying to put all the pieces together.
Together, we’ll identify the patterns most likely contributing to your child’s challenges and create a practical, personalized plan.
A Whole-Child, Systems-Based Approach
Start Here: Root-Cause Integrative Assessment
This is the best starting point for most families.
What it includes:
60–90 minute deep intake session
Comprehensive review of developmental + health history
Identification of key system patterns
Initial root-cause hypotheses
Clear, personalized next-step roadmap
Best for:
Families who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure what is driving their child’s challenges.
Pricing:
$350 (intro rate $149 through August 2026)
Real Families, Real Change
Gut + behavior + regulation improvements
My daughter was given antibiotics at birth, and from ages 2 to 3 her pediatrician frequently treated her ear infections with antibiotic shots. I believe this contributed to gut issues that affected her eating habits, sleep, behavior, and even her dental health. Our dentist has mentioned that these issues may have impacted her teeth as well.
After completing the gut reset, we noticed that her breath had improved significantly. Even more surprising, at her most recent dental appointment she had no cavities. This was a huge shock because she had always had five or more cavities at each visit. She also had improved behavior, less outbursts, and was willing to try more foods.
Chyanne I
I also support caregivers in improving their own health, because caring for yourself helps you care for your child.
Energy, Inflammation, and physical health improvements
After working with Karen, I quickly realized her knowledge and encouragement gave me the tools needed to make life changes. These changes have led to healing outside the conventional doctors office. Healing that lasts longer and is a wiser use of money in the long run….I joined with zero expectation of change. Just wanting to dip my toe in. But by staying committed to Karen's plan, I am off the asthma inhaler, have not taken allergy medicine in months, and put on my wedding dress from 20 years ago! I love how the process was slow and steady, helping me form habits that have lasted!
Erin C
Emotional + pain + lifestyle transformation
“I was so used to pain in my back, hips, and feet that I just accepted it like a new normal. After just one week on the liver detox and with Karen’s coaching, most of my body aches subsided completely. It was amazing!" … “I also saw improvements in brain fog, focus, energy, overall mood, and mornings without headaches. I’m so thankful for Karen, who was a gentle encourager, ready to answer any questions I had.”
Shalyn C
Is This a Fit for Your Family?
This support may be a fit if:
You feel like your child’s challenges are interconnected, not isolated
You’ve tried multiple approaches but still don’t understand the “why”
You want a systems-based, integrative perspective and support
You are open to working alongside your child’s existing medical or therapy team
This may NOT be a fit if:
You are looking for diagnosis or medical treatment
You only want a single-symptom solution
You are not open to lifestyle or integrative approaches
Ready to Understand the “Why” Behind Your Child’s Challenges?
You don’t have to keep guessing or managing symptoms in isolation. We’ll start by mapping the bigger picture and identifying clear next steps for your child and family
“My goal is to ensure you feel comfortable, heard, and assured that I will do everything possible to make your goals a reality. Together, we will formulate a realistic plan that’s based on your unique needs and desires to allow you to achieve the vision you have for your health, body, and life. I want you to experience the amazing way our bodies are created to heal when given the proper care.”
-Karen Hairston, MPT, IHP2
Frequently Asked Questions
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As an IHP, I’m trained in both functional medicine and natural health to uncover and rebalance the underlying root causes of dis-ease—not just mask symptoms. I use lab testing, lifestyle guidance, and personalized protocols to support the whole person—body, mind, and spirit.
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I work with all ages, but the functional labs I run are not available for children under 3 years of age. We can still work on lifestyle changes and I may be able to refer you to a lab for younger children if appropriate.
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No, integrative care and health coaching works alongside MDs and therapists to help your child reach their full potential. My job is to find the underlying root causes of your child’s challenges and address those. We are on the same team.
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I commonly support clients with autism, cerebral palsy, digestive issues, emotional imbalances, learning difficulties, sleep problems, ADHD, and more—by addressing the underlying root causes.
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Not always. While functional lab tests offer powerful insight into what’s happening beneath the surface, we can absolutely begin with a symptom-based approach and personalize your protocol as we go.
I use a combination of in-depth assessments and ongoing feedback to guide your healing journey—lab testing is highly encouraged, but never required.
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Everybody is different. Some clients feel better within weeks, while others need several months to see bigger changes. My goal is lasting results, not quick fixes—so I focus on sustainable healing.
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Yes! I work alongside your current care to support your healing naturally. I always recommend speaking with your prescribing doctor before adding or changing any supplements or wellness routines.
