Boston Ability Center

Janet Wade , DPT, PCS
Doctor of physical therapy, Jan Crew Wade has been working with kids in the Boston area for 14 years. Through her work at Children’s Hospital and the Wellesley Public Schools, Jan has been amazed by the tenacity of the children and families she has met. Jan recently obtained her clinical doctorate in physical therapy and was appointed a board certified Pediatric Clinical Specialist in May of 2008. The Boston Ability Center fulfills her life-long goal to combine clinical excellence and fun while helping children gain the skills they need for a healthy, happy life.

Cheryl Mallernee
Cheryl Mallernee graduated from Northeastern University with a Master of Science degree in Speech-Language Pathology. She is licensed in Massachusetts and holds the Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. In addition she is licensed through the MA Department of Education. Cheryl has a wide range of experience from toddlers to the adult geriatric population.

Eileen Gordon M.S., OTR/L

Eileen has several years of experience working in both inpatient and outpatient settings at Children’s Hospital Boston.  She has worked with individuals from birth to young adults with a variety of developmental delays and disabilities.  In addition to treating children with autistic spectrum and sensory processing disorders, Eileen has specialized experience working with children diagnosed with genetic disorders such as Williams and Fragile X Syndrome.  She also has experience with pediatric splinting and upper extremity rehabilitation for children with orthopedic and neuromuscular conditions and congenital anomalies.  Eileen recently completed her certification in the Sensory Integration and Praxis Test.  She is excited to join the team at Boston Ability Center and looks forward to continued work with children and families.

Elvira Fulchino MS. OTR/L, MSW. LICSW

Elvira comes to the Boston Ability Center with dual specialties in occupational therapy and clinical social work. She was educated at Tufts University and Simmons College, respectively. Elvira trained in sensory integration therapy and worked at Occupational Therapy Associates in Watertown, MA. Elvira also is certified in the Sensory Integration and Praxis Test. She is currently on staff at the Wellesley Public Schools Integrated Preschool Program. Elvira loves her work with children and will also offer services for parents and families who are impacted by disability.

Carolyn Graham M.S.,PT

Carolyn comes to the Boston Ability Center with over  11 years of experience, primarily in outpatient pediatric physical therapy.  Carolyn holds a Master of Science degree in Physical Therapy from Ithaca College.  She has a wide range of experience with individuals from birth to young adult.  In addition to working with children with a variety of developmental delays and disabilities, Carolyn has specialized experience in Lite Gait treadmill training, Theratog fittings, and e-stim treatments.

Nikki Rice MS/DPT

Nikki is a graduate of Ithaca College, where she received her doctorate degree in physical therapy. While at Ithaca, she played on the Women’s Varsity Soccer team during her 4 years of undergraduate studies. She has enjoyed playing sports since she was a little girl, and has had a variety of experiences working with and coaching soccer for children of all ages.   Upon completion of her studies, Nikki spent her final clinical affiliation at a pediatric hospital in Florida, an experience which solidified her desire to work with children. While working in Florida, Nikki evaluated and treated a wide range of pediatric diagnoses, including neurological, developmental and orthopedic conditions.  She gained expertise in splinting for orthotics, and evaluating and treating the infant and toddler populations with a specific emphasis on congenital and acquired torticollis. She is excited to be apart of the Boston Ability Center team, and is eager to continue her lifelong journey of changing and improving the lives of children and their families.

Maria Montague MS/CF-SLP

Maria is a graduate of the MGH Institute of Health Professions, where she received a Master of Science degree in Speech-Language Pathology and completed a concentration in Reading Disorders.  Maria currently works in public schools with both preschool and upper elementary students.  She has experience working with a variety of populations from birth to young adult with a range of physical, sensory, and neurological impairments.  Maria is passionate about working with children to communicate effectively regardless of their challenges, and is excited about the developing opportunities of incorporating technology into treatment.  Maria is also an avid field hockey player and enjoys playing year-round.