Chairman of the Board, Regional Non-Profit Social Organization “Center for Curative Pedagogics”, Chairman of the Board, Alliance of Professional Organizations “Value of Everyone”
Summary:
Anna Bitova is a highly accomplished and dedicated leader in the field of rehabilitation, education, and integration of individuals with mental disorders and intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). For over four decades, she has been a driving force in improving the lives of vulnerable populations, providing innovative services, advocating for their rights, and empowering professionals in the field. Her commitment to these individuals and their families has earned her international recognition, including the Chevalier of the Legion of Honor in 2021 for her dedication to the right to education.
Education:
- Moscow State Pedagogical University, Moscow State Distance Learning Pedagogical Institute: Degree in Special Education, with specialization as a Speech Therapist for preschool, school, and medical settings (1980)
- State University Higher School of Economics: Management of Non-Profit Organizations (2006)
Professional Experience:
Anna Bitova’s career began as a speech therapist in a children’s psychiatric hospital. In 1989, recognizing a critical need for comprehensive support, together with a group of specialists and parents she co-founded the Regional Non-profit Social Organization “Center for Curative Pedagogics” (CCP). The CCP was established to provide vital assistance to children with diverse mental disorders and their families.
Under Anna Bitova’s leadership, the CCP has grown exponentially, becoming a leading center offering services to children, teenagers, and adults with a wide range of conditions, including:
- ADHD
- Schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorders
- Epilepsy
- Genetic syndromes
- Mental and physical disabilities
- Severe multiple developmental disabilities
- Learning difficulties
Beyond her organizational leadership, Anna Bitova actively participates in the CCP’s consultation and diagnostic department. She demonstrates a keen interest in applying insights from neuropsychology, neurology, psychophysiology, and psycholinguistics to her practical work. She has also authored and co-authored numerous programs focused on creating effective systems for:
- Rehabilitation, education, and integration of children with developmental disorders.
- Professional development and training for specialists and facilitators.
Public Leadership & Advocacy:
Anna Bitova is a prominent public figure and advocates for the rights of people with disabilities and the support of non-profit organizations. She regularly participates in international and domestic forums, including seminars, conferences, panel discussions, and public hearings, where she shares her expertise through presentations and reports. She also organizes educational events and internships for both local and international colleagues. Additionally, she provides guidance and mentorship to leaders, initiative groups, and emerging organizations on administrative, practical, and methodological matters.
Anna Bitova is a member of the Council on issues of guardianship in the social sphere under the Government of the Russian Federation, and she has been contributing a lot and keeps doing that to reform the system to help people with mental disorders.
Impact & Achievements:
Since its founding in 1989, the CCP has positively impacted the lives of over 30,000 families, providing children and adults with invaluable opportunities for learning, development, and a dignified life. The CCP has also trained over 139,000 specialists through its comprehensive courses.
Under Anna Bitova’s direction, the CCP established integrative kindergartens and schools, and a charitable foundation supporting adults with mental disorders.
In 2019, the CCP co-founded Professional Alliance “Value of Everyone,” a network of 60 professional organizations dedicated to supporting individuals with mental disorders and their families.
CCP’s Comprehensive Approach:
The CCP utilizes a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to rehabilitation, education, and support. Its team of over 150 qualified professionals includes:
- Psychologists and Neuropsychologists
- Educators and Teachers
- Speech Therapists
- Play Therapists
- Doctors
- Physical Therapists and Massage Therapists
- Art Therapists
- Lawyers
- Social Workers
Current Reach:
The CCP’s current reach includes:
- At least 400 children and adults attending regular classes each month.
- 800 new families receiving free initial consultations annually.
- 450 university students participating in training and internships annually.
- 600 volunteers contributing to programs supporting individuals with special needs.