Disability Studies Speaker Series: Dr. Jessi Block on Strengths Based Approaches, the Social Model of Disability and Her Lived Experience as a Diagnostician
We will hear from Dr. Jessi Block on her important work: about the innovative ways she brings her lived experience into the diagnostic space, the ways she adhere to a strengths-based and asset-based practice, and her navigation of the social model of disability in a world of medical models. Also as a person who helped educate CSUSB for the inception of the original Cog, any of her philosophies on neuro-affirming academic spaces.
Dr. Jessica Block is a licensed pediatric neuropsychologist and Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP). Outside of her speaking engagements and trainings, she specializes in comprehensive neuropsychological and psychoeducational evaluations that help identify learning profiles, determine appropriate educational placement, and implement efficacious treatment plans.
Dr. Block earned her Psy.D. in school psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Her doctoral internship at Rye City School District provided her with extensive knowledge of the New York public schools' special education system. Under the supervision of board-certified school neuropsychologists, she conducted psychoeducational assessments, helped facilitate IEP meetings, and delivered therapy using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) methodologies. Following her doctoral internship, Dr. Block completed a two-year postdoctoral pediatric neuropsychology fellowship at Pediatric Assessment Learning and Support (PALS). She currently conducts neuropsychological evaluations at The Yellin Center for Mind, Brain, and Education. Her specialized training equips her to comprehensively assess and create treatment plans for patients from three years old through adulthood presenting with learning disabilities, ADHD, Autism, social-emotional challenges, developmental delays, and neurological disorders. Dr. Block advocates for her patients in IEP meetings and collaborates with schools, educators, related service providers, and special education attorneys to optimize treatment outcomes.
In addition to her clinical work, speaking engagements, and trainings, Dr. Block served as the Director of the COMPASS program at Fairleigh Dickinson University's Metropolitan Campus, a college support program for students on the autism spectrum. In this role, she oversaw a dedicated team of clinical and program staff, delivering effective executive functioning, social, and psychological support services. Moreover, Dr. Block contributes to the field of psychology with chapter and research publications. Through her multifaceted roles, Dr. Block is committed to enhancing the well-being and success of individuals through individualized and comprehensive assessment, intervention, and advocacy.