I am an occupational therapist (OT) working with kids with different types of challenges or disabilities; however, my specialty is working with children with autism and their families. I love what I do and cannot imagine doing anything else.

My younger brother is autistic, and I always knew I wanted to be in the medical profession. Still, I decided that medical school was not for me. I wanted to pursue a career where I could specialize in something dear to my heart. I have always wanted to build relationships with children, and OT has allowed me to do that. Combining my love for children, my brother and medicine every day is a gift.

My personal experience with autism and how developmental disabilities affect families, and siblings in particular, has shaped my practice. I place a strong focus on providing resources and ideas that improve life for the child and their family. I teach families about how autism can affect individuals, especially sensory processing challenges and cognitive processing differences. Every day, I delight in sharing in the joy these kids bring to their families and the world.

I have been running the Autism Intensive Program at Green Township since 2014 and have been influential in the program’s expansion across satellite locations. I have been an active member of the OT / PT Autism TRACK team throughout my tenure at Cincinnati Children’s. I am also very passionate about neurodiversity and changing the culture around how people view autism.

On a personal note, fun socks are a fabulous accessory to wear when you work with kids and constantly take your shoes on and off during your workday. To that end, I have over 900 pairs of socks at last count. Colleagues will also tell you that I have matching earrings for many of them.