About
Personalized Driving Rehabilitation, Backed by Clinical Expertise
At The Driving Doctor: Adaptive Driving & Rehabilitation Solutions, PC, we specialize in driver rehabilitation, adaptive driving, and assistive technology for individuals with disabilities and medical conditions.
Our services include comprehensive driving evaluations, adaptive driving lessons, vehicle modification recommendations, and educational consulting. Whether someone is preparing to drive for the first time or returning to driving after an illness or injury, our focus is on providing individualized support that prioritizes safety, confidence, and independence.
Our Approach
Every Driver Has Unique Abilities and Goals
We believe clear, evidence-based information should guide every inquiry and referral. Our approach is educational and compassionate, with an emphasis on helping each visitor understand the available services and their possible next steps.
Meet Andrea & Justin
A Husband-and-Wife Team with Complementary Clinical Expertise
Dr. Andrea Fairman and Dr. Justin Laferrier are the husband-and-wife team behind The Driving Doctor.
Their story began at the University of Pittsburgh, where they met while pursuing their PhDs in Rehabilitation Science and Technology.
With more than 25 years of experience each in occupational therapy (Andrea) and physical therapy (Justin), they bring complementary clinical perspectives to driver rehabilitation.
Both are Assistive Technology Professionals (ATPs) and hold Certified Driving Instructor (CDI) credentials through the Rhode Island Department of Motor Vehicles.
Together, they combine rehabilitation expertise, assistive technology, and individualized approaches to help drivers navigate their unique challenges.
Dr. Andrea D. Fairman
PhD, MOT, OTR/L, ATP, DRP, CDI
Founder, Owner & Evaluator
Andrea brings over 25 years of occupational therapy experience, specializing in driving rehabilitation, assistive technology, and supporting individuals with complex medical, neurological, and developmental conditions.
She currently focuses on conducting driving evaluations, providing company leadership, and overseeing clinical services. As the practice's primary point of contact, Andrea helps individuals understand the services available and the appropriate next steps.
Andrea holds the Driving Rehabilitation Professional (DRP) credential through ADED and provides clinical oversight for evaluation assistance performed by the team's certified occupational therapy assistant.
Her professional background also includes federally funded rehabilitation research, peer-reviewed publications, and the development of technology-based interventions that promote functional independence.
Dr. Justin Z. Laferrier, PT, PhD, NCS, OCS, SCS, ATP, CSCS, AIB-VR, CDI
Evaluator & Adaptive Driving Instructor
Justin brings over 25 years of physical therapy experience, with expertise in complex rehabilitation, biomechanics, and assistive technology.
He is triple board-certified in Neurology, Orthopedics, and Sports Physical Therapy and has extensive experience working with individuals with complex mobility and neurological conditions.
Justin primarily conducts driving evaluations and also provides specialized driving lessons for clients who require adaptive controls or vehicle modifications.
His combined experience in rehabilitation science and assistive technology complements Andrea's occupational therapy background.
The Driving Doctor also includes adaptive driving instructors with experience in occupational therapy, special education, and supporting individuals with disabilities.
Our team includes Kathryn Kapiskas, COTA/L; Justin Cares, BS, CDI; and Jeremy H. Pavao, CDI.
Each brings a different professional background and a shared commitment to individualized support.
Our Team
Supporting Independence Through Driving
At The Driving Doctor, we recognize that no two drivers are alike. Our goal is to provide knowledgeable, individualized guidance that helps each person pursue safe and meaningful community mobility.