Cari A. Oakes, MOT, OTR/L

I specialize in working with infants and children in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) Follow-up Clinic, including those with neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, internationally adopted children, and infants and toddlers with neuromotor concerns who are at high risk for cerebral palsy. I also care for infants and children with feeding disorders and challenges, developmental disabilities, such as autism and developmental delay, and those with sensory processing and emotional regulation difficulties.

I have always wanted to work with children and felt drawn to those with differing abilities. During college, I worked three summers at a day camp for children with disabilities, where I was first exposed to this population and occupational therapy (OT). I loved helping children participate in play and watching them adapt to activities, succeed and have fun. I knew then that occupational therapy was the career for me.

I strive to deliver family-centered care focused on the most important concerns of family members, caregivers and children. I want to help kids participate fully and successfully in their homes and communities.

I received specialized training in assessments for the early detection of cerebral palsy in infants, including the General Movements Assessment and the Hammersmith Infant Neurological Examination. I’m research-certified for the administration of the Bayley Scales of Infant Development-4. I am also involved in several research studies about assessing and treating infants and toddlers at high risk for or diagnosed with cerebral palsy.

I participate in several multi-disciplinary clinics, including the NICU Follow-up Clinic and International Adoption Clinic. I am also particularly interested in serving infants and toddlers with neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome and their families and caregivers. I am a member of the OT/PT High-Risk Infant specialty team.

During my free time, I enjoy going on hikes and being outside in nature, but most often, you’ll find me chasing my three boys around my house and yard.