Jackie Swisshelm

Jan 6, 2025 | perkins.org | Jackie Swisshelm

Molly Field, 23, dreams of running her own business that combines two of her many passions — psychology and sports. In the meantime, she’s a Work Coach at a new school for students with Social, Emotional and Mental Health Needs (SEMH) — a position for which she’s uniquely qualified. Molly has CVI, or Cerebral/Cortical Visual Impairment, a common, but alarmingly underdiagnosed form of blindness that impacts everything from her social circle, to her hobbies, to navigating work tasks.

Dec 3, 2024 | perkins.org | Jackie Swisshelm |Kara Baskin

Many kids with autism also have CVI, but similar traits can make it difficult to pinpoint which condition is causing which behavior. It’s frustrating for parents: You want the most accurate diagnoses and interventions for your child, but you might not be sure how to differentiate between each—and, sometimes, providers aren’t sure, either. You’re not alone. This is common, but we’re here to help: Alessia Guerriero is a school psychologist at Perkins School for the Blind.

Nov 12, 2024 | perkins.org | Jackie Swisshelm

Teachers of students with visual impairments (TVIs) are integral components of a CVI educational team. They teach kids adapted methods for participating in their school curriculum and in everyday activities. They conduct assessments to determine abilities. They make referrals for additional services. They’re experts at observing classrooms and homing in on where kids need extra support, all through the CVI lens.

Sep 24, 2024 | perkins.org | Jackie Swisshelm |Kara Baskin

Skip to contentDid you know that an estimated 64% of kids with CVI also have epilepsy? There’s lots of overlap—which means there’s a lot to sift through. We can help. Here’s information about CVI, epilepsy, and how they interact. Cerebral/Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI) is a lifelong, brain-based visual impairment. With CVI, there’s damage to the visual pathways or visual processing areas of the brain. This means that CVI is a neurological issue.

Sep 17, 2024 | perkins.org | Jackie Swisshelm

CVI Now is the trusted source for answers and resources about Cerebral/Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI). If you’re an adult questioning your vision or diagnosis, we’re glad you found us. We’re here to help. CVI is the leading cause of blindness and low vision. CVI is a lifelong, brain-based visual impairment, caused by damage to the brain’s visual pathways or visual processing areas.