Pediatric Power: NJ-Based Occupational Therapy
Welcome to Pediatric Power
At Pediatric Power, I specialize in pediatric occupational therapy, helping children navigate toileting challenges specifically stool withholding, encopresis, constipation, and toileting anxiety. Through a whole-child approach that includes play-based therapy, functional strategies, sensory motor techniques, and pediatric pelvic health therapy, I address the physical and emotional factors contributing to toileting difficulties. My mission is to guide children and their families through compassionate, evidence-based care that supports confidence, comfort, and independence in daily routines.
Conditions
Chronic Constipation
Encopresis
Behavioral Challenges
Impaired Coordination
Stool Withholding
Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Toilet Refusal/Anxiety
Interoception Difficulty
Signs and Symptoms Your Child May Benefit from Occupational Therapy
Determining whether a child needs specialized occupational therapy can be challenging, as the signs and symptoms may be subtle or mistaken for typical childhood behaviors.
Here at Pediatric Power, I am determined to find the root cause of your child’s discomfort. Here is a breakdown of some common signs that might suggest the need for specialized occupational therapy.
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Chronic Toilet Training Issues
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Difficulty or Regression with Toilet Training
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Fear of the Toilet
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Urinary Issues
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Pain with Bowel Movements
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Chronic Constipation
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Fecal Incontinence
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Avoidance of Bowel Movements
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Poor Posture
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Difficulty Sitting
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Difficulty with Physical Activities
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Toilet Training Anxiety
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Aggression or Mood Changes due to Chronic Discomfort
Why Occupational Therapy?
Occupational Therapy takes a whole-child, functional approach, using play-based therapy to build healthy toileting habits, address sensory needs, routines, interoception awareness, emotional regulation, and the child’s overall experience with bowel movements. OTs also work on strengthening and relaxing pelvic floor and core musculature. OTs look at when, where, why, and how a child avoids bowel movements and help make it feel safe, predictable, and successful.
Why Home-Based Mobile Therapy?
I am located in Monmouth County, NJ. Home-based therapy offers a unique and effective way to support your child’s progress. Therapy takes place in the exact home or routine that your child uses every day. Home-based therapy naturally invites parents and caregivers to be part of the process and can also save time for busy families. Please contact me directly to confirm if your location falls within my travel radius.
Interoception Therapy
Interoception is our internal sense regarding how we notice, interpret, and respond to signals from inside our body, like hunger, thirst, temperature, pain, emotions, and bowel/bladder urges. When this system is underdeveloped or dysregulated, it can affect many areas of a child’s life, especially toileting. Interoception therapy is a powerful tool for building self-awareness, independence, and emotional resilience. It’s especially helpful for children with sensory processing challenges, for those who “just can’t explain how they feel.”
Strategies
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Pelvic Floor Muscle Training using Non-Invasive Techniques
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Education and Skill Development of Toileting Techniques
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Strength and Coordination Exercises
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Diaphragmatic Breathing
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Toileting Mechanics
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Interoception Training
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Social/Emotional Activities Through Play
Flexible Therapy Options For Your Family
In-Home Therapy
Personalized occupational therapy delivered in your home. Please contact me directly to confirm if your location falls within my travel radius.
Telehealth
I use a parent coaching model to ensure success at home. If it suits your child’s needs and attention style, we will incorporate direct virtual therapy into our sessions.
Meet Sargam: Our Pediatric Care Provider
Sargam Nanavati is a dedicated occupational therapist and the founder of Pediatric Power in 2025. Sargam graduated from Rutgers University in 2006 with a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health, followed by a Master’s in Occupational Therapy from Kean University in 2009. Sargam has also completed specialized coursework in pediatric pelvic health. She is located in Monmouth County, NJ.
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With extensive experience in diverse settings—including nursing homes, hospitals, schools, and early intervention—Sargam recognized a critical gap in care for children struggling with toileting issues. Her passion was ignited by a desire to ensure that every child receives the compassionate and individualized care they deserve. Occupational therapy plays a crucial role in improving the quality of life for children with pelvic floor dysfunction or toileting challenges, facilitating better overall development and emotional well-being
