About Vision Therapy and our Team
Vision therapy is a rehabilitative program that helps both children and adults who experience a variety of visual issues. Vision therapy is similar to “physical therapy”, but rather than treating the muscles of the body, it improves visual function by training the brain to better control the eyes. It can also improve higher level brain skills such as visual processing. Vision therapy is an invaluable tool that has changed not only our patients’ vision, but has improved many related areas of their lives as well.
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The first step is a comprehensive evaluation with Dr. Deviney and his team. This evaluation includes two specialized exams that test visual processing, tracking, reading speed, reading comprehension, balance, eye teaming, depth perception, and more. It is a binocular vision exam that goes beyond just measuring 20/20. Dr. Deviney will then hold a conference to explain the testing results. If vision therapy is needed, he will prescribe an individualized program that will retrain your brain and eyes to work together using state of the art equipment.
Just as a physical therapist might use treadmills or weights, a vision therapist relies on prisms, lenses, filters, and computerized systems to conduct vision therapy sessions. In our therapy center, we use the latest technology, including interactive computer programs, 3D and virtual reality technology that result in long-lasting success.
Our experienced staff is trained in working with a variety of patients including those with special needs, learning disabilities such as dyslexia and ADHD, head trauma, concussions, motor vehicle accidents, strokes, falls, brain surgeries, and other injuries. We also specialize in the treatment of dizziness, vertigo, and motion sickness.
We are fortunate to have one of the most experienced vision therapists in all of Texas. Melody Lay achieved the status of Certified Optometric Vision Therapist (COVT) in 2013. At the beginning of 2018, there were only 213 COVTs in the nation and only 14 in Texas. To be eligible for COVT certification, a therapist must have completed a minimum of 2,000 therapy hours and passed a demanding series of exams.
Our entire staff is committed to ensuring the success of each and every patient. We will do our best to accommodate your busy schedule by finding appointment times that meet your needs. The knowledgeable staff at our vision therapy center will work with you to help you understand your financial options to ensure that you get the most out of vision therapy.
Barbara Whittaker, Patient Care Coordinator
Barbara is a graduate of the University of Houston and is our patient care coordinator. Barbara brings excellence and experience in coordinating patient care. Barbara is married to Ken and has two adult daughters.
Lilian Vera, Optometric Vision Therapist
Lilian is a graduate of Texas A&M with a Bachelor of Science in Child Professional Services with a Minor in Sociology and Creative Studies. Lilian joins our team as an experienced therapist previously working in Seattle, Washington. Lilian is experienced with all diagnoses and working with children and adults. Her passion for her patients is evident in the therapy she provides at VTSA. Lilian is married to Curtis and has two wonderful canine furbabies.
Melody Lay,
COVT, Director of Vision Therapy Services
Melody is our Director of Vision Therapy Services here at VTSA. She graduated from the University of Tennessee with a Bachelor of Science in Education and an emphasis in Special Education. Melody’s experience and passion range from helping children and teens with undiagnosed vision-related learning problems and special needs to adults with traumatic brain injury, stroke, dizziness, and post-concussion syndrome. Melody continues to learn about the latest advancements in treatment through a broad range of continuing education. In 2013, the College of Optometrists in Vision Development (COVD) board certified Melody as a Certified Optometric Vision Therapist. Melody is a member of The College of Optometrists in Vision Development (COVD), Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation Association (NORA), and the College of Syntonic Optometry (CSO). Melody is married to Stephen and they have four sons.