The Masgutova Method involves several different modalities that work to bring the body into a state of equilibrium. By working with the tactile system (our skin and sense of touch), our neurostructural system (muscles, ligaments and bones), our reflex’s (automatic responses), and our stress response system (sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system) we improve the body’s ability to respond to the difficulties life sets in our path. The end goal is that clients are not overcome by emotions and gain ease when moving through life.
Svetlana Masgutova is a developmental and educational psychologist who has spent her life researching and developing the Masgutova Neuro-sensorimotor Reflex Integration Method to address motor, learning and emotional delays. Dr. Masgutova’s techniques focus on primitive and postural reflexes to restore the brain’s foundational structures on which higher level skills, such as academic learning and emotional responses are built.
“[Our child] received OT, PT and social work consistently since she was 3 years old. …it is notable how much more profound and speedy her progress is since she has begun with MNRI… in every part of her life. Her social and language skills have improved greatly, her academic learning has improved, her motor planning has improved, she is much better at controlling her impulses and just seems more happy and in control over her feelings overall. Some of the changes have been instant…”
S.T. mother of 8 year old”
How does MNRI® Work?
MNRI® methodically provides the brain with sensory input paired with the correct motor patterned responses. Misti will assess how the individual’s reflexes are functioning and design a plan to implement a home program. Parents are trained on how to carry out the plan at home with their child with ongoing support and more intense work with Misti during weekly visits.
MNRI® work is done on the body, giving sensory input and passive motor patterning. The child does not have to actively participate to gain improvements. The re-patterning movements take place while laying on a therapy table. In this way the body is in the same position as it is when the reflex emerges pre and post birth.
Through simple motor checks and behavioral checklists your child will be evaluated to determine reflex patterns. Often times once one reflex is integrated within the sensory system, others mature naturally. Each week in therapy time will be spent working through the reflex patterns. You will be able to carry over these activities at home after learning them during a session. Once the reflex is showing improved response clinically, we begin to incorporate use of that movement pattern into purposeful activities. This is when functional improvements will be noticed.
To learn more about the Masgutova Method click here