2 day In-Person Course 

Movement Matters:

An Introduction to the Perception-Action Approach

In-Person Course
DATES: March 20 & 21, 2026

CONTINUING EDUCATION HOURS: 13.5
LEVEL: Introductory
LOCATION: Emory University, 1615 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30329  
COST: 
     Early Bird: $420.00 before February 10, 2026
     (Code:  MM-Atlanta2026)
     Regular: $450.00
     For Group Discount contact:

      Lisa.pinson@perceptionaction.org

READING PREREQUISITES:

  1. “Development Through the Lens of a Perception-Action-Cognition Connection: Recognizing the Need for a Paradigm Shift in Clinical Reasoning” Rahlin M, Barnett J, et al. https://doi.org/10.1093/ptj/pzz026.
  2. Theoretical Foundations and Primary Concepts of P-A Approach (All can be found on IPAA website.)
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
A paradigm shift in clinical reasoning is occurring that affects pediatric therapists who are selecting the most effective interventions for their clients/patients. Interventions based on neuromaturational theory are being set aside in favor of those based on theories supported by current research. One such approach is the Perception-Action (P-A) Approach. This interactive workshop highlights the roles of variability and adaptability in the global learning process. In keeping with research in developmental science, participants will gain the ability to modify intervention to be task-specific, repetitive, and highly salient to the child. The theoretical foundation, primary concepts, and unique characteristics of the P-A Approach will be described.

REGISTER AT:

WWW.PERCEPTIONACTION.ORG

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Target Audience:

Pediatric PT, PTA, OTP, and SLP

Learning Objectives:

Upon completion of this educational session the participant will:
  1. Distinguish between neuromaturational theory and current theories of perception-action, dynamic systems, and neuronal group selection. 
  2. Recognize how perceptual information from support surfaces contributes to the development of postural control.
  3. Identify how a child-driven intervention contributes to an individual’s active problem-solving. 
  4. Describe how environmental modifications can provide affordances for action.
  5. Explain basic elements of Informational Touch.
  6. Recognize how Informational Touch in the P-A Approach differs from other "hands-on" therapeutic techniques. 

       FORMAT AND METHOD OF INSTRUCTION:

       Lecture, laboratory sessions, small and large group discussions       
       and case presentations. 

SATISFACTORY COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS

13.5 Continuing Competency Hours (CCHs) in Georgia and 1.35 CEU's for AOTA will be awarded upon successful completion of this IPAA Professional Development activity. Full course attendance, passing a post-course knowledge assessment and completing the course evaluation are required for successful completion of this course.

ACCESSIBILITY

IPAA is committed to ensuring that all educational activities are accessible to all learners, including people with disabilities. If you have any special needs, please contact us at ipaamoves@gmail.com.

CANCELLATION POLICY

Requests for cancellation must be made in writing more than 10 days prior to the course start date to receive a refund minus $20.00 administrative costs for registration. Cancellations by IPAA will result in full refund.


Pending continued approval of 13.5 PT CEU's in Arizona and 13.5 CCH's approval in Georgia.

SLPs can submit a Certificate of Completion from this course to qualify for maintenance of ASHA Certification.

IPAA is an AOTA Provider of professional development. Course approval ID# 6385. This live course is offered at 1.35 CEUs, Introductory level, OT Service Delivery. The assignment of AOTA CEUs does not imply endorsement of specific course content, products, or clinical procedures by AOTA.

For questions, please email:
lisa.pinson@perceptionaction.org 
What We Offer

Course Schedule

Day 1

COURSE OUTLINE
8:45 – 9:00 Sign in Registration
9:00 - 10:00 Unique defining Characteristics of P-AA in relation to Theoretical
10:00 - 10:20 Break
10:20 - 11:00 Primary Concepts -gravity, support surface, variability, adaptability
11:00 - 11:30 Video and Discussion
11:30 - 12:00 Participant Movement Lab #1
12:00 - 1:00 Lunch
1:00 - 1:45 Affordances
1:45 - 2:10 Video and Discussion
2:10 - 2:40 Participant Environment Setup Lab #2
2:40 - 3:00 Break
3:00 - 4:00 Components of Informational Touch
4:00 - 4:30 Participant Movement Lab #3
4:30 - 5:00 Questions/Discussion/Homework


Day 2

8:45 – 9:00 Sign in
9:00 – 9:30 Review
9:30 – 10:10 Assessment /Treatment Implications
10:10 – 10:30 Break
10:30 – 11:30 Demo and Discussion
11:30 -12:00 Participant Movement Lab #4
12:00 – 1:00 Lunch
1:00 – 2:00 Participant Movement Lab #5
2:00 - 3:00 Homework Discussion
3:00 – 3:20 Break
3:20 – 4:30 Case presentation and Analysis, POC, Goal setting, Treatment ideas
4:30 – 5:00 Questions/Discussion/Survey/ Certificate

Lecture


Self-Experiential Movement Activities


Participant Labs


Course Completion

Thank you for taking this course. If you have completed the entire course work, please click on the link below to complete the Knowledge Assessment, Course Survey & obtain your Certificate of Completion.
Instructor

Lisa JH Pinson

Physical Therapist - DPT, C/PAA-Instructor 
Lisa JH Pinson, PT, DPT, C/PAA-Instructor Lisa JH Pinson, PT, DPT, PCS is a board-certified pediatric physical therapist with over 28 years of experience across a wide range of clinical settings. She is a founding board member and current treasurer of the Institute for Perception-Action Approach (IPAA), and has played a leading role in advancing the model globally.
Lisa founded the PEDI Center for Therapy in Phoenix and participated in a landmark NIH-funded study using PAA with children with cerebral palsy. She currently works at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Her work blends clinical insight, research, and a deep understanding of developmental movement.
Patrick Jones - Course author
DISCLOSURES:
FINANCIAL: Lisa JH Pinson is being financially compensated to present this Professional Development activity.
NONFINANCIAL: Lisa JH Pinson holds leadership and volunteer roles within IPAA for which there is no financial compensation.

REGISTER TODAY

WWW.PERCEPTIONACTION.ORG


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