Community Wellness
BBS faculty and staff partner with parents and health care providers to educate and develop healthy habits in our students. We offer resources, lectures, and consultations to parents and students to assist in their progression both physically and mentally. Our wellness consultants have been carefully chosen because of their specialized skills in working with young developing dancers. Consultants collaborate closely with faculty and staff and are also available for private consultations with our BBS families.
Consulting Sports Medicine Physician – Bridget Quinn, MD
In practice for 12 years, Dr. Quinn specializes in pediatric sports and dance medicine, sharing her knowledge and expertise with the BBS team, students and families.
BBS Physical Therapist – Susan Kinney, PT
Ms. Kinney is the owner of Artists Rehabilitation Therapy Services (ARTS) and has more than 25 years of experience working with young dancers and athletes. Kinney is a member of the Children’s Hospital Sports Medicine Dance Team.
Consulting Dietitian – Laura Reece, MS, RD, CSSD, LDN
Dr. Reese brings her knowledge of sports nutrition to her role with BBS which includes specialties in the areas of Female Athlete Triad and disordered eating.
Consulting Clinical Psychologist – Miriam Rowan, Psy.D., Affiliate Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Miriam Rowan is a licensed clinical psychologist with over 17 years of experience in the world of classical ballet, having been a professional dancer with the San Francisco Ballet. She provides educational workshops to BBS employees and students on childhood development and psychological themes.
Wellness Offerings – Physical Therapy Clinics
Classical Ballet Program students from both Boston and Newton are invited to sign up for personal consultations with our Physical Therapist, Susan Kinney. The 60-minute physical therapy consultations are cost $150 and designed specifically for dance students. Participants receive an individualized wellness program, obtain information about injury prevention, and treat a particular injury or symptoms that may lead to injury. Individualized recommendations will be provided to help improve and sustain each student’s overall physical health.
If you wish to sign up, please email bbspt@bostonballet.org with the following information: student’s name, date of birth, phone number, student class level, guardian name, home address, desired appointment time (10 am, 11 am, 12 pm, or 1 pm), and health insurance information.
Students may sign up for personal consultations with our Physical Therapist. The 60-minute physical therapy consultations are designed specifically for dance students. Participants receive an individualized wellness program, obtain information about injury prevention, and treat a particular injury or symptoms that may lead to injury. Individualized recommendations will be provided to help improve and sustain each student’s overall physical health.
Dates for 2023/2024 PT Wellness Clinics are below:
October 7
November 11
December 2
January 20
February 3
March 2
April 6
Adaptive Dance In-Class Physical and Occupational Therapists
Physical and Occupational Therapists offer instructional support to the lead teacher to ensure safe and productive movement/activities. They also give feedback to teachers as necessary regarding movement activities and help teachers to apply student medical and IEP needs to the Adaptive Dance setting.
Student Health Policy
Students who are deemed at risk of injury to themselves or others for any reason may be required to receive medical clearance and/or subsequent follow ups to continue participating in classes, rehearsals, or performances. This decision will be solely at the discretion of the Boston Ballet School Principal with the input of Boston Ballet School’s Health and Wellness team. Concerns regarding risks of injury may result from any number of reasons including a student who demonstrates erratic behavior, sudden weight loss or weight gain, or visible physical limitations to class participation.
A student’s parent or guardian will be immediately notified and offered guidance and support in setting up required appointment(s) with one of Boston Ballet School’s wellness experts. The confidentiality of students and families is always carefully guarded. All student health concerns are approached with care and are discussed in a private conference with a parent or guardian present. Students/ parents are responsible for paying for any mandatory clearances and follow ups, though most evaluations are covered by major insurance providers.
