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020 4515 5441 SEARCH Generic selectors Exact matches only Search in title Search in content Post Type Selectors Search in posts Search in pages Accessibility Menu MENU About Us Cody’s Story Meet the Team NAPA Blog Programs Intensive Therapy Paediatric Occupational Therapy Paediatric Physiotherapy Paediatric Speech Pathology Developmental Feeding Therapy Weekly Therapy Telehealth Therapy Tools DMI Functional Estim Galileo Neurosuit Spidercage Vitalstim Theratogs Locations London Brisbane Melbourne Sydney Austin Boston Charlotte Chicago Denver Los Angeles Get Started Intake Forms Intensive Registration Process Frequently Asked Questions Fees MyNAPA Portal Log In Join our Team Careers Students Volunteers Contact Us Cerebral Palsy Speech: What’s All the Talk About? Oct 02nd, 2020 | by NAPA Team NAPA Team October 02nd, 2020 How Does Cerebral Palsy Affect Speech? Cerebral palsy affects body movement, muscle control, and muscle coordination, which among other things, also affects a person’s ability to speak clearly. About 50% of children with cerebral palsy have communication disorders, and it’s usually caused by dysarthria. Dysarthria is a motor speech disorder that affects the muscles of the mouth, face, and respiratory system to become weak, move slowly, or not move at all. Children with dysarthria as a result of cerebral palsy often have shallow, irregular breathing for speech, potentially affecting the rate at which they try to speak. Kids also may have a low-pitched, harsh-sounding voice, with little pitch variation (onlinelibrary.wiley.com). Cerebral Palsy Speech Therapy Cerebral palsy can affect parts of the brain and muscles in a child’s mouth that permit speech. Thus, many children with cerebral palsy have trouble speaking. Speech therapy can address different ways of communicating and address swallowing impairments. The role of the speech therapist is to gradually improve your child’s ability to form words and speak clearly. If speech isn’t possible, they can teach your child different means of communication, such as AAC or sign language. Moreover, children with cerebral palsy may have the tendency to drool or face difficulty when trying to eat. Speech therapy can help your child gain control over these muscles to slowly alleviate these issues. Studies on Speech Therapy for Cerebral Palsy Over the past few decades, studies have been done on the effectiveness of treatment for children with cerebral palsy. One study published in the Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology in 2010 investigated intensive speech and language therapy for older children with cerebral palsy. They found that intensive therapy that focuses on stabilising children’s respiratory and phonatory effort and speech rate could increase the intelligibility of their single words and connected speech. There was no noticeable change in the 6 weeks before therapy, implying that the treatment, rather than maturation or natural change, increased intelligibility. The results from intensive therapy therapy were maintained 6 weeks after intervention, during which they received no treatment, implying that the effects of therapy were maintained (onlinelibrary.wiley.com). PROMPT Speech Therapy for Cerebral Palsy Another study, conducted by the School of Psychology and Speech Pathology at Curtin University in 2012 evaluated the effectiveness of the motor speech treatment Prompts for Restructuring Oral and Muscular Phonetic Targets (PROMPT) in the management of motor-speech impairment in children with CP. All participants in the study showed a significant improvement in performance level of motor speech movement patterns and continued to do so 12 weeks after treatment. All participants showed improved perceptual accuracy and speech intelligibility as well (espace.library.curtin.edu.au). Cerebral Palsy and Speech: Customised Treatments Bring the Best Results More recently, University of Strathclyde’s Anja Kuschmann is doing research that could eventually help kids with cerebral palsy speak more clearly. The research will analyse verbal patterns, breathing, and intonation (“prosody”) in young people with CP. Because the characteristics of CP vary from person to person, Kuschmann hopes that this will highlight new ways to provide customised treatments to every child living with CP. (www.medicaldaily.com). Classification of Cerebral Palsy Cerebral palsy is the result of a brain injury or an abnormal development of the brain. Although the injury is neurological in nature, it causes impaired movement, coordination, balance and posture, which are mostly orthopedic in nature. Every child is unique, and those who have cerebral palsy have varying degrees of impairment. In order to more understand your child’s disability, it is important for his or her condition to be classified. About NAPA Centre At NAPA Centre, we offer weekly and intensive speech therapy for children with cerebral palsy. NAPA was built on the love that parents have for their children; founded in 2008 by a mother who dedicated her life to finding the best therapies for her son with cerebral palsy. Now, NAPA is a leader in pediatric therapy, offering the best and most innovative tools and methods from around the world. If your child needs our services, we will work closely with you to select the best therapies for them, creating a customised program specific to your child’s needs and your family’s goals. Let your child’s journey begin today by contacting us to learn more. Find Additional Resources in the NAPA Blog: The NAPA Approach to Physiotherapy for Cerebral Palsy Top 5 Questions We Get About CP What We Know About Vibration Therapy for Cerebral Palsy 5 High Muscle Tone Exercises to Try at Home for Hypertonicity TAGS: Blogs, SLP SHARE: Related Posts Blogs PT What Is Serial Casting and How Can It Help My Child? Blogs PT Physiotherapy for Cerebral Palsy: Our Tools & Techniques Blogs PT 5 Home Physiotherapy Exercises for Low Muscle Tone (Hypotonia) document.cookie = 'nitroCachedPage=' + (!window.NITROPACK_STATE ? '0' : '1') + '; path=/; SameSite=Lax'; PHONE 020 4515 5441 EMAIL info@napacentre.co.uk Stay in the NAPA know. Sign up for our newsletter to receive important updates! 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020 4515 5441 SEARCH Generic selectors Exact matches only Search in title Search in content Post Type Selectors Search in posts Search in pages Accessibility Menu MENU About Us Cody’s Story Meet the Team NAPA Blog Programs Intensive Therapy Paediatric Occupational Therapy Paediatric Physiotherapy Paediatric Speech Pathology Developmental Feeding Therapy Weekly Therapy Telehealth Therapy Tools DMI Functional Estim Galileo Neurosuit Spidercage Vitalstim Theratogs Locations London Brisbane Melbourne Sydney Austin Boston Charlotte Chicago Denver Los Angeles Get Started Intake Forms Intensive Registration Process Frequently Asked Questions Fees MyNAPA Portal Log In Join our Team Careers Students Volunteers Contact Us First Intensive? 5 Things Your NAPA Team Wants You to Know Feb 15th, 2022 | by Lisa Murphy OTD, OTR/L, SWC Lisa Murphy OTD, OTR/L, SWC February 15th, 2022 1. We Do Our Homework Before your child gets to NAPA, we know a lot about them. Our team reviews all of the paperwork you’ve turned in prior to your arrival. Patient intake, reports and evaluations, and anything else you’ve sent along will help us get a picture of your kiddo before they walk in the front door. 2. Your Goals Are Our Goals Parent and patient goals direct our treatment approach; we ask you what you want to work on and will design a treatment plan that meets your child where they are at on their journey towards those goals. Want to work on walking? We’ll help you identify the steps to get there whether it be more weight-bearing in the legs, using a gait trainer for the first time, or treadmill training in our cage. Better use of arms to support communication access? We’ll choose activities that promote upper extremity motor control and work with the speech team to help identify seating options and switch placements. 3. Our Therapy Sessions Look Different Our sessions are fast paced, packing in a lot of exercises each hour. We use modalities such as electrical stimulation, whole body vibration, the Neurosuit, and Spider Cage which may be new to some families. Sometimes the exercises are hard and children may cry. Despite the novelty and challenge, our goal is to make therapy fun; we incorporate play, singing and snuggles into each session. 4. Teamwork Makes the Dream Work Our team of OTs, PTs, and SLPs come together to address your child as a whole being. We communicate regularly throughout the intensive with one another and you to discuss goals and therapy plans. This support team extends to you and your at home providers. Every child who attends an intensive session at NAPA is given a home exercise program to continue to build upon their progress. Throw on your sweats mom, dad, grandma or caregiver, because at the end of the intensive, we tag you in and give you hands-on practice. 5. Community is Everything What makes the NAPA intensive experience truly magical is the tribe that you will be surrounded by. Parents and children on similar journeys, therapists cheering on your child’s successes big and small, and support staff who check in and say hi each day bring a sense of special community to NAPA. Make sure to get to know your fellow intensive comrades, ask questions, and feel the support of your new NAPA family. NAPA Parents Share Their Intensive Therapy Experience Find Additional Resources and Inspiration in the NAPA Blog: How to Rock Your First Intensive Tips for Your Child’s Home Exercise Program Play Therapy: Purposeful Fun for Your Child How to Tame Your Sensory Seeker About the Author Lisa, an occupational therapist, is NAPA’s Global Director of Rehabilitation and a 10-year NAPA veteran. When she’s not treating or mentoring, you can catch her exploring her new hometown Denver and hiking with her family. TAGS: Blogs, NAPA Family SHARE: Related Posts Blogs NAPA Family Our 5 Favorite Tools for Your Child’s Home Exercise Program Blogs OT A Therapist’s Guide to Compression & Weighted Vests for Kids document.cookie = 'nitroCachedPage=' + (!window.NITROPACK_STATE ? '0' : '1') + '; path=/; SameSite=Lax'; PHONE 020 4515 5441 EMAIL info@napacentre.co.uk Stay in the NAPA know. Sign up for our newsletter to receive important updates! 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020 4515 5441 SEARCH Generic selectors Exact matches only Search in title Search in content Post Type Selectors Search in posts Search in pages Accessibility Menu MENU About Us Cody’s Story Meet the Team NAPA Blog Programs Intensive Therapy Paediatric Occupational Therapy Paediatric Physiotherapy Paediatric Speech Pathology Developmental Feeding Therapy Weekly Therapy Telehealth Therapy Tools DMI Functional Estim Galileo Neurosuit Spidercage Vitalstim Theratogs Locations London Brisbane Melbourne Sydney Austin Boston Charlotte Chicago Denver Los Angeles Get Started Intake Forms Intensive Registration Process Frequently Asked Questions Fees MyNAPA Portal Log In Join our Team Careers Students Volunteers Contact Us 10 Fun Facts About Physiotherapy Jan 03rd, 2023 | by Brianna Reynolds Brianna Reynolds January 03rd, 2023 1. Physiotherapy Dates Back Thousands of Years! Some treatment methods date all the way back to 460 B.C. when the Greek Physician, Hippocrates, advocated for the use of massage, hydrotherapy, and manual therapy techniques for pain relief. 2. Physiotherapy Was First Recognized in the United States During World War I During the war, “reconstruction aides” were nurses who were tasked and trained to rehabilitate injured soldiers. They used what they learned with rehabilitation to improve treatment of Polio and improve lives of those injured in later wars. 3. Meriam Webster Defines Physiotherapy As… “therapy that is used to preserve, enhance, or restore movement and physical function impaired or threatened by disease, injury, or disability and that utilizes exercise, physical modalities, assistive devices, and patient education training”. NAPA uses modalities during physiotherapy such as whole body vibration, body weight support systems, neuromuscular electrical stimulation, NeuroSuit, Dynamic Movement Intervention and more to improve PT outcomes. 4. The American Physiotherapy Association (APTA) Defines Physiotherapists As… “movement experts who improve quality of life through prescribed exercise, hands-on care and patient education.” They also specifically state that paediatric physiotherapists “develop, restore, and improve movements.” As movement experts we are trained to evaluate and treat each and every kid we see as an individual to meet their specific movement and developmental needs. 5. Beginning in 2015, Physiotherapy Became a Doctoral Degree in the United States This means all therapists must now complete their undergraduate degree as well as three years of graduate school. PTs must also pass a national licensing exam to become a treating physiotherapist. After licensure, all therapists must complete continuing education courses each year to continue learning and growing. Advanced training is also available to therapists including residencies or fellowship programs, or independent study to become board certified in specialty areas, although this advanced training is not required. 6. In Both Australia and the United Kingdom, We Are Called Physiotherapists and Have Differing Schooling Processes Although a doctorate degree is not required in either the UK or Australia at this time, clinical training begins earlier in their collegiate career meaning they have the same valuable training and knowledge required to be the best therapists they can be. 7. Physiotherapists Can Work in Many Different Settings Including, but not limited to: outpatient settings, hospitals, nursing homes, sports organizations, schools, and even in the home. Some other cool modalities physiotherapists can use for treatment include therapy in the water (aquatic therapy) or on a horse (hippotherapy.) PTs can also treat any age from 0-100+ or even become certified to do physiotherapy for animals. 8. Physiotherapy Is Listed One of the Best Jobs Physiotherapy was listed as #10 in top health care jobs, and #28 in best jobs by U. S. News and World Report. We get to work closely with so many other professionals in every setting including physicians, occupational therapists, speech therapists, social workers and many more. 9. October is National Physiotherapy Month! We use this month to raise awareness about the benefits of PT, and to appreciate what PTs, PTAs, and students do to transform lives! 10. Physiotherapists at Napa Love What They Do! We love seeing kids make improvements and meet goals. We love helping families learn and feel more empowered when working with their kids. We love physiotherapy! Find Additional Resources in the NAPA Blog: Physiotherapy Diaries: 5 Things I Wish I‘d Known Before Starting My First Paediatric Physio Job Explaining the Difference Between Occupational and Physiotherapy 5 Indoor Physiotherapy Activities to Try at Home 3 Fun Paediatric Physiotherapy Games and Activities 5 Physiotherapy Tools You Already Have at Home TAGS: Blogs SHARE: document.cookie = 'nitroCachedPage=' + (!window.NITROPACK_STATE ? '0' : '1') + '; path=/; SameSite=Lax'; PHONE 020 4515 5441 EMAIL info@napacentre.co.uk Stay in the NAPA know. Sign up for our newsletter to receive important updates! 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020 4515 5441 SEARCH Generic selectors Exact matches only Search in title Search in content Post Type Selectors Search in posts Search in pages Accessibility Menu MENU About Us Cody’s Story Meet the Team NAPA Blog Programs Intensive Therapy Paediatric Occupational Therapy Paediatric Physiotherapy Paediatric Speech Pathology Developmental Feeding Therapy Weekly Therapy Telehealth Therapy Tools DMI Functional Estim Galileo Neurosuit Spidercage Vitalstim Theratogs Locations London Brisbane Melbourne Sydney Austin Boston Charlotte Chicago Denver Los Angeles Get Started Intake Forms Intensive Registration Process Frequently Asked Questions Fees MyNAPA Portal Log In Join our Team Careers Students Volunteers Contact Us The Best Down Syndrome Toys — Our Therapists’ Top Picks Oct 01st, 2024 | by Courtney Shea, OTR/L Courtney Shea, OTR/L October 01st, 2024 In this blog, NAPA OT Courtney shares her favorite toys for kids with Down syndrome. Not only are these toys incredibly fun, but they also benefit your child in various areas, such as fine motor skills, language development, and social interaction. Make playtime (or gifting!) fun and developmentally impactful with our therapist-approved Down syndrome toys listed below. The Best Down Syndrome Toys to Support Development Children with Down syndrome benefit from the same play-based learning and toys as any child. What makes a toy beneficial for a child with Down syndrome is often the same as what makes a toy helpful for any child. This includes toys that specifically encourage social interaction as well as cause and effect toys are beneficial in the early stages and as a child ages. Additionally, finding toys that foster fine motor and gross motor development, and sensory input can have an even greater impact. Why Thoughtful Toy Selection Matters While picking out toys for any child, it is important to keep a few things in mind to ensure suitability for the child’s development and growth. Try to disregard the age range written on the toy. These are often not accurate and you may not be able to depend on the item’s suggested age suitability, as your child may be achieving milestones at a different rate than their age-equivalent peers. Just remember that a toy is suitable if your child’s interest is stimulated and they are drawn in to engaging with the item. Also keep in mind that low muscle tone (hypotonia) can make reaching, grasping, and handling certain toys more challenging. Finding toys that target these areas of growth, but are not too difficult or frustrating to engage with, is key. Prioritise toys that encourage progress without causing frustration. Down Syndrome Toys: Our Therapists’ Top Picks Listed below are our favorite toys for kids with Down syndrome. If you are looking for toys for babies or toddlers with Down syndrome, the first two are must-haves. Happy playing! 1. Play Mats Play mats are a great place to engage your baby in tummy time activities for gross motor development as well as reaching and grasping objects. Play mats also have visually engaging items as well as some activities requiring fine motor skills such as grasp and release. You can also use play mats and items with the play mat to promote exploration, cause & effect, body awareness and object permanence by hiding items and playing peekaboo. 2. Floor Mirror This is a great item for tummy time which is incredibly important for gross motor development, strengthening and eventual fine motor development. Visual attention and social engagement are also great for development and can be done looking at each other in the mirror! In early infancy, utilising high contrast items such as pictures with black and white items is a great way to develop the visual sense. 3. Squigz Squigz are an incredibly versatile toy can be used in so many ways and comes in many forms. From the PipSquigz in rattle form to the MiniSquigz there are endless ways to engage with these fun little suction cups through the lifespan. Using these little suction toys can help promote core strengthening, fine motor, gross motor and communication skills. You can use Squigz during activities targeting balance and coordination, such as sticking them to a vertical surface while standing on a wobbly surface (couch cushion or Bosu ball) or working on reaching, developmental transitions (sit-to-stand, etc.) or stepping up/down. They can also be a great bath time toy as they are silicone and easy to clean. These multi-sensory toys target the visual system with their vibrant colors, auditory system with the fun suction popping sounds they make when pulling apart, tactile systems with their fun textures and more! The possibilities with these little suckers are endless! 4. Rody Horse Rody is a big NAPA favorite! You can often find Rody wandering around our clinics. Using Rody can help promote improvements in balance, strength and coordination. You can use Rody in a number of ways and movement on Rody provides great sensory input to the proprioceptive and vestibular senses. They’ve also created an even bigger and more stable Rody with the RodyMax if your child needs a bit more support. Rody can also be turned into a rocking item with the rocking base or scooter item with the speedy base accessories. 5. Ball Poppers These fun items can help increase hand strength, fine motor coordination and visual motor integration. They come in many different animals (and mythical creatures) and can be used with one hand or both depending on what you’d like your child to be working on. From a distance, you can also try to target catching skills, though this may prove to be very challenging! 6. Putty There are many forms of theraputty on the market these days but all help to target hand strengthening and fine motor coordination. Placing small items inside the putty to find can be a fun and an engaging way to work on various grasp patterns and hand strengthening. 7. Sturdy Birdy The game of perfect balance can be the “just right” challenge for an older child with difficulties following directions, decreased body awareness and impaired balance. This fun filled, active game can help enhance coordination, core strength, social interaction and self-esteem. 8. Puzzles (varying levels of complexity) Puzzles of all kinds work on so many great skills! There is a bit of a developmental sequence to puzzles that begins with large peg puzzles with underlying pictures and ends with jigsaw puzzles with many small pieces. Each will work on visual perception, visual motor integration and fine motor skills. Depending on the puzzle, you will also be working on matching, visual discrimination, form constancy, visual memory, and problem solving which can all be linked to reading and writing as well as cognitive and language development. Working on any puzzle will promote bimanual skills, hand-eye-coordination and can also incorporate gross motor skills (i.e. putting a puzzle piece at the end of a tunnel to crawl through, before placing it into the puzzle). Therapist hack: Many children with Down syndrome love music. Singing and dancing are excellent ways to work on language, social interaction and motor skills! Bonus: View Our Paediatric Therapists’ Gift Guide! View this post on Instagram A post shared by NAPA Centre (@napacenter) About NAPA Centre NAPA Centre is a world-renowned paediatric therapy clinic with locations throughout the US, Australia, and the UK. NAPA was founded in 2008 by a mother who dedicated her life to finding the best therapies for her son with cerebral palsy. Over fifteen years later, NAPA is now recognised as a global leader in paediatric therapy, offering the best and most innovative tools and methods from around the world. If your child needs our services, we will work closely with you to select the best therapies for them, creating a customised program specific to your child’s needs and your family’s goals. Interested in bringing your child to NAPA? Contact our team today to begin your child’s individualised therapy plan. Welcome to the NAPA Family! CONTACT NAPA → Find More Therapist-Approved Toys & Activities in the NAPA Blog: Top 5 Fine Motor Skills Toys Handpicked by a Paediatric OT 35 Fine Motor Activities: Our Therapists’ Ultimate List 25 Sensory Toys Our Occupational Therapists Love Speech Therapy Toys We Love How to Tame Your Sensory Seeker Additional Resources: What We Wish the World Knew About Down Syndrome Therapy Options for Children with Down Syndrome: A Guide for Parents March 21st is Down Syndrome Awareness Day Raising a Child With Down Syndrome: Tips, Support & Hope What to Expect from Your Child’s Occupational Therapy Evaluation About the Author Courtney Shea is a paediatric occupational therapist at NAPA Centre Boston. Outside of work, you can find her running along the Charles River with her family or planning her next outdoor adventure—yes, she’s the queen of overpacking! 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020 4515 5441 SEARCH Generic selectors Exact matches only Search in title Search in content Post Type Selectors Search in posts Search in pages Accessibility Menu MENU About Us Cody’s Story Meet the Team NAPA Blog Programs Intensive Therapy Paediatric Occupational Therapy Paediatric Physiotherapy Paediatric Speech Pathology Developmental Feeding Therapy Weekly Therapy Telehealth Therapy Tools DMI Functional Estim Galileo Neurosuit Spidercage Vitalstim Theratogs Locations London Brisbane Melbourne Sydney Austin Boston Charlotte Chicago Denver Los Angeles Get Started Intake Forms Intensive Registration Process Frequently Asked Questions Fees MyNAPA Portal Log In Join our Team Careers Students Volunteers Contact Us 32 Fine Motor Activities: Our Therapists’ Ultimate List Nov 12th, 2024 | by NAPA Team NAPA Team November 12th, 2024 Fine Motor Activities Chosen by Paediatric Therapists We often think about fine motor skills as the skills required to manipulate a pencil for legible handwriting or to manage clothing fasteners. Considering that handwriting and independent dressing skills are not yet developmentally appropriate for your toddler or preschooler, it is through many naturally occurring play activities that you can help support the developmental progression of the fine motor skills. These fine motor skills activities are excellent ways to encourage fine motor development while having some fun! Jump Ahead: Indoor Fine Motor Activities Outdoor Fine Motor Activities Fine Motor Precision Activities Fine Motor Strength Activities Fine Motor Skills Games What are Fine Motor Skills? Fine motor skills are thought of as the movements that involve the fingers and the hands, fine motor skills are essential for supporting independence with dressing, feeding, eating and performance in school. The best way to foster fine motor efficiency and supplement your child’s occupational therapy is to build practice into your child’s everyday routine with fine motor skills activities at home. Now, let’s dive into our favorite fine motor activities! Fine Motor Activities for Toddlers and Preschoolers Listed below are fine motor skills activities for parents or caretakers to try with their toddler at home to help the developmental progression of fine motor skills. While some of these activities may be done independently, we recommend supervising your toddler when playing with small items. 1. Peeling and Placing Stickers Place stickers on your child’s hands or clothing and have them peel them off. For an added challenge, take a piece of paper and draw open circles to give your child targets in which to place the stickers. The grasp required to peel a sticker works toward the pincer grasp required for manipulating a button. The visual motor coordination required for placing the sticker within a target works toward the visual motor coordination required for inserting the button within a hole. 2. Stringing Cheerios Start by using something that holds its shape (e.g. a pipe cleaner or piece of uncooked spaghetti) and string Cheerios across. To progress this activity, use a string. The use of two hands for completing two different tasks simultaneously and the visual motor coordination required for inserting the lace through the hole are precursor skills for attaching the pin of a zipper and pulling the slider up the chain. 3. Ripping or Crumpling Paper Create a mosaic craft by ripping paper into small pieces. This bimanual activity works on strengthening the small muscles of the hand and promotes bimanual use of a tripod grasp, similar to what is required to unsnap the snaps of a jacket. 4. Placing Coins in a Piggy Bank Picking up the coins encourages use of a pincer grasp and orienting them to the slot of the bank requires visual motor coordination, similarly to buttoning. Increase the challenge by first sorting and stacking the coins, which would require a precision grasp around the edges of the coin and visual perceptual skills to identify matches based on size. This is similar to identifying and placing the top of the toothpaste tube or water bottle. 5. Squeezing Clothespins or Chip Clips One idea for fine motor clothespin activities is using preferred board book and having your child attach the clothespin to the book to create “legs” for the characters and have the book stand up. Another fine motor clothespin activity idea is to attach the clothespins to your child’s clothing and have them try to locate and remove them. Increase the challenge by doing this without the use of a mirror, addressing body awareness that supports independent dressing. The opening and closing of the hand as you squeeze and release the clothespins is a precursor for the motion and strength required for opening and closing a scissor. Bonus points if your child uses his thumb on one side of the clothespin and index and middle finger on the other side of the clothespin. With this finger placement, you’re working towards a mature pencil grasp. Fine Motor Activities for an Outdoor Adventure 6. Sidewalk Chalk Sidewalk chalk is an inexpensive tool (often available at the dollar or 99cent store) that can help your child build fine motor skills. Drawing on the sidewalk or driveway will help your child build hand and finger strength and improve coordination while stimulating creativity at the same time. The bonding, laughing and fresh air don’t hurt either! 7. Threading and Lacing Laces and beads can form the basis of an activity that encourages bilateral integration and concentration. By slowly threading laces through the beads, your child will be boosting muscle memory, which will make similar everyday tasks easier to complete. Start with larger beads and then gradually make them smaller as they become more adept. Mix up the threading challenge by threading Cheerios on pipe cleaners or Rigatoni on yarn. 8. Making Putty Figures Putty is an effective tool to develop hand and finger strength. You can add putty to your fine motor skill activity list whether your child is only capable of squeezing the putty in their hands to alter the shape or can use their fingertips to sculpt specific shapes and figures. Try rolling balls, making snakes, and hiding coins or beads inside to increase the fine motor strengthening challenge. 9. Pick Up Sticks Pick up sticks is a classic game where sticks are scattered on a tabletop or other hard surface and players are required to pick them up carefully one stick at a time. Focus on improving finger isolation by encouraging your child to use the index finger and thumb for one round, middle finger and thumb for the next, and so on. 10. Popping Bubbles Bubbles – an ultimate child favorite – are a great and easy way to add fine motor fun to your day. Just blow some bubbles and have your child visually track them and reach out to grab them before they float away. Your child can poke them with one finger at a time, pinch them with a couple of fingers or grab them with their entire hand. 11. Sorting Coins or Beads Coin and bead sorting will help develop hand and finger strength and teach your child how to identify different items and group them together. For this activity, you can place several coins and/or multi-colored beads in a container, in a box or on a table and have your child pick up and sort them based on the type of coin or bead color. Ice cube trays make great sorting containers. Fine Motor Precision Activities Here are some fun activities to do at home to work on fine motor precision. Add a timed component, or sequential steps to add the increased challenge of improving manual dexterity. 12. Threading to make a necklace or a bracelet with cereal or beads 13. Mazes 14. Perler beads 15. Snipping on a line 16. Inserting coins into a piggy bank 17. Using glue on a precise target for an art project 18. Putting pegs into a pegboard 19. Engaging in puzzles Fine Motor Strength Activities Here are some activities for your child to do at home in order to improve your fine motor strength: 20. Squeezing playdough or theraputty 21. Making something out of dough, such as pizza or cookies 22. Using syringes and eye droppers for art projects 23. Picking up items with tweezers, clothesline pins, or kitchen tongs 24. Using a hole puncher for art activities 25. Engaging in origami 26. Finding leaves outside, using them as a stencil placed below a paper, and using the appropriate amount of strength to color over to create an indent of the leave’s shape Try New Fine Motor Skill Games You didn’t think an OT would leave out fine motor play from a list of awesome fine motor activities, did you? Where to begin?! Some fun fine motor activities and games for school-age kids might include: 27. Painting with a squirt bottle 28. Squirting down a tower of cups 29. Building marshmallow sculptures 30. Playing with LEGOs 31. Create pictures with a Lite Brite 32. Play games like Connect 4, Uno, Kerplunk, Jenga, Operation, Angry Birds building and launching game, or Mancala. We Hope You Enjoyed These Fine Motor Skills Activities! As self-directed and hands-on play, the list above is perfect if you’re looking for OT fine motor activities. You could even incorporate these fine motor activities for preschoolers at home. We hope you have fun trying these fine motor activities with your 1, 2, or 3 year olds! It’s no secret that parental involvement in the occupational therapy journey provides better results. By integrating fun fine motor activities at home to help boost fine motor skills into your child’s everyday routine, you can add tremendous value to your child’s therapy program. Find More Therapist-Approved Activities and Resources in the NAPA Blog 5 Fine Motor Skills Toys Recommended by an OT Sensory Bins for Toddlers: Our Favorite Ideas and Items Gross Motor Development for Infants and Toddlers How to Tame Your Sensory Seeker 15 Activities to Build Gross Motor Skills 7 Water Play Activities for Summer Sensory Fun 5 Easy Exercises to Improve Proprioception Awareness About NAPA Centre At NAPA Centre, we take an individualised approach to paediatric therapy because we understand that each child is unique with very specific needs. We embrace differences with an understanding that individualised programs work better. For this reason, no two therapeutic programs are alike. If your child needs our services, we will work closely with you to select the best therapies for them, creating a customised program specific to your child’s needs and your family’s goals. Let your child’s journey begin today by contacting us to learn more. CONTACT US TAGS: Activities, Blogs, OT SHARE: Related Posts Activities Blogs PT 6 Animal Yoga Poses for Kids Activities Blogs 6 Jumping Games for Kids by a Paediatric Physiotherapist Activities Blogs PT 3 Fun Paediatric Physiotherapy Games and Activities document.cookie = 'nitroCachedPage=' + (!window.NITROPACK_STATE ? '0' : '1') + '; path=/; SameSite=Lax'; PHONE 020 4515 5441 EMAIL info@napacentre.co.uk Stay in the NAPA know. Sign up for our newsletter to receive important updates! 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020 4515 5441 SEARCH Generic selectors Exact matches only Search in title Search in content Post Type Selectors Search in posts Search in pages Accessibility Menu MENU About Us Cody’s Story Meet the Team NAPA Blog Programs Intensive Therapy Paediatric Occupational Therapy Paediatric Physiotherapy Paediatric Speech Pathology Developmental Feeding Therapy Weekly Therapy Telehealth Therapy Tools DMI Functional Estim Galileo Neurosuit Spidercage Vitalstim Theratogs Locations London Brisbane Melbourne Sydney Austin Boston Charlotte Chicago Denver Los Angeles Get Started Intake Forms Intensive Registration Process Frequently Asked Questions Fees MyNAPA Portal Log In Join our Team Careers Students Volunteers Contact Us Teamwork at NAPA: Our Multidisciplinary Approach to Therapy Jan 07th, 2025 | by Allison Travetto, OTD, OTR/L Allison Travetto, OTD, OTR/L January 07th, 2025 At NAPA Centre, we pride ourselves on using a multidisciplinary, individualized approach to therapy. This unique method brings together the expertise of occupational therapists (OTs), physiotherapists (PTs), and speech-language pathologists (SLPs) to address the diverse needs of each child we serve. By collaborating, our team ensures that therapy sessions are cohesive and that each child benefits from a treatment plan tailored to their unique challenges and strengths. Here’s an in-depth look at how we implement sensory strategies, speech strategies, and physical and positioning strategies. Our team-based approach creates an environment where every child can thrive at NAPA! Collaborative Area #1: Sensory Strategies The Role of Sensory Integration Many children have sensory processing needs that can impact their ability to organize their movement, focus, transition between tasks, or regulate their emotions. Our occupational therapists are trained to understand and address these sensory processing challenges, helping children feel more calm, comfortable and engaged in their environment. Sensory integration is the process by which the brain organizes sensory information from the body and environment. When sensory input is overwhelming or difficult for a child to process, they may react with behaviors. This is where sensory strategies become crucial! Customized Sensory Supports for Regulation and Focus Our OTs work closely with PTs and SLPs to incorporate sensory-based activities that regulate and prepare children for their therapy sessions. For instance, a child who is sensitive to sound or touch may need calming, grounding activities to help them feel safe and focused. Deep pressure or “heavy work” activities—such as pushing or pulling, squeezing a stress ball, or wearing weighted vests—can provide calming input that grounds the nervous system. For other children who seek movement or have high energy levels, swinging, jumping, or spinning may be integrated to help them focus. These strategies, as well as modalities such a Whole Body Vibration and Horse Riding Simulator can be incorporated in speech sessions to improve engagement. If a child is working with a PT on strength-building exercises but struggles to stay focused, the OT might introduce sensory breaks or sensory-based activities to maintain engagement and regulation. Collaborative Area #2: Speech Strategies Addressing Communication Holistically Communication is a fundamental part of every child’s experience, and at NAPA, our speech-language pathologists are committed to helping children find their voice, whether through verbal speech or alternative communication systems. Communication development goes beyond just verbal speech; it includes receptive language (understanding language), expressive language (using words), and social communication (interacting with others). By collaborating with OTs and PTs, our SLPs create an integrated approach that addresses the whole child, making it easier for them to use their communication skills in everyday life. Many children at NAPA use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices. When children use these systems to communicate, SLPs work closely with OTs and PTs to incorporate these tools into sessions. For example, during physical activities, the PT might reinforce the child’s use of their AAC device by prompting them to request breaks or comment on activities, giving them practice in a functional setting. Collaborative Area #3: Physical and Positioning Strategies Building a Foundation for Functional Movement Physical therapists are key to helping children develop the strength, balance, and coordination needed for everyday activities. Our PTs at NAPA are experts in helping children build a strong physical foundation that supports other areas of development, including fine motor skills, sensory processing, and communication. Physical therapy goals vary widely, from building head and trunk strength or sitting balance, to developing coordination and strength for running and jumping. The Importance of Positioning Positioning plays a crucial role in helping children engage in all types of activities. Proper positioning ensures that children have the stability and alignment they need to participate in tasks comfortably and effectively. Our PTs work closely with OTs and SLPs to determine the best positions for each child during specific activities. For instance, a child who struggles with head and trunk control may be positioned in a supportive chair during SLP activities, allowing them to focus on speech tasks. Alternatively, if an OT is working on fine motor tasks, they will ensure that the child’s posture allows for better postural and hand control. The Power of an Individualized Approach Creating a Plan That Reflects the Whole Child Every child has unique strengths, needs, and goals, and at NAPA Centre, we’re dedicated to developing treatment plans that reflect the whole child. Each therapist contributes their specialized knowledge, but it’s the collaborative process that makes our approach so impactful. Communication and Flexibility Among Therapists The success of our multidisciplinary approach relies on constant communication among therapists and flexibility in adapting strategies as a child grows and changes. Regular team meetings, daily check in’s, progress updates, and a commitment to each child’s evolving needs keep our approach responsive and individualized. Empowering Children and Families Through Our Holistic Approach Our approach is not just about improving therapy outcomes but also about empowering families. By teaching families how to use sensory, speech, and positioning strategies at home, we help them support their child’s development in everyday activities. NAPA families become active participants in the therapeutic process, reinforcing what their children learn and experiencing the joy of each milestone along the way. NAPA Centre’s commitment to individualized, multidisciplinary care helps children grow and reach their fullest potential. Through a holistic approach, our team of OTs, PTs, and SLPs empowers each child to overcome challenges, develop new skills, and build a foundation for lifelong growth. We love being a part of each child’s journey and celebrating their progress every step of the way! About the Author Allison obtained her BA in Recreational Therapy from California State University, Long Beach, and her Doctorate of Occupational Therapy from Creighton University. Prior to becoming an OT, Allison was a recreational therapist in various settings including adaptive sports, psych, and neuro rehab. Allison believes in play-based, client-centered practice and loves to make therapy fun! About NAPA Centre NAPA Centre provides weekly and intensive pediatric therapy sessions tailored to your child’s unique needs. We offer a multidisciplinary approach integrating physical, occupational, speech, and feeding therapy. With clinics throughout the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia, we aim to bring hope to families worldwide by providing access to the best and most innovative therapies all under one roof. TAGS: Blogs, NAPA Family, Videos SHARE: document.cookie = 'nitroCachedPage=' + (!window.NITROPACK_STATE ? 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020 4515 5441 SEARCH Generic selectors Exact matches only Search in title Search in content Post Type Selectors Search in posts Search in pages Accessibility Menu MENU About Us Cody’s Story Meet the Team NAPA Blog Programs Intensive Therapy Paediatric Occupational Therapy Paediatric Physiotherapy Paediatric Speech Pathology Developmental Feeding Therapy Weekly Therapy Telehealth Therapy Tools DMI Functional Estim Galileo Neurosuit Spidercage Vitalstim Theratogs Locations London Brisbane Melbourne Sydney Austin Boston Charlotte Chicago Denver Los Angeles Get Started Intake Forms Intensive Registration Process Frequently Asked Questions Fees MyNAPA Portal Log In Join our Team Careers Students Volunteers Contact Us Angelman Syndrome Day: Insights from Parents and Therapists Jan 31st, 2025 | by Serena Patel, PT, DPT Serena Patel, PT, DPT January 31st, 2025 Every year on February 15th, we observe International Angelman Day (also known as Angelman Syndrome Day) to raise awareness and honour our loved ones with Angelman syndrome (AS). In this post, we’ll explore what Angelman syndrome is, common characteristics, treatment options, and, most importantly, practical advice from parents who have walked this path. If your child has been diagnosed with Angelman syndrome, you’re not alone—we’re here to support you. “Your child will meet milestones and make progress—just in their own way and time. Keep the bar high so they can reach their maximum potential!” What Is Angelman Syndrome? Angelman syndrome is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder caused by issues with a specific gene (UBE3A) that occurs before birth. It primarily affects the nervous system—controlling movements, behaviours, thoughts, and automatic responses, and also causes developmental delays and physical impairments. Although there is no known cure, there are treatments and therapies that can significantly improve quality of life and help children with Angelman syndrome reach their highest potential. Common Characteristics of Angelman Syndrome Each person with Angelman syndrome is unique, but some common characteristics include: Developmental delay Intellectual disability Limited speech Movement and balance challenges Seizures Unique Characteristics Seen in Children with Angelman Syndrome: Children with Angelman syndrome often display: A joyful and enthusiastic demeanor—frequent smiling and laughter (which may lessen with age) Repetitive hand-flapping motions Hyperactivity and a limited ability to focus for extended periods Sleep disturbances, which often improve with age How Common Is Angelman Syndrome? Angelman syndrome affects about 1 in 12,000 to 20,000 people worldwide. It occurs equally in boys and girls and is often caused by a spontaneous gene mutation rather than being inherited. Because Angelman syndrome is so rare, getting an early diagnosis can make a world of difference—giving your child access to the therapies and support they need to thrive. Angelman Syndrome Treatments & Therapies While there is no main treatment or cure for Angelman Syndrome, ongoing research is targeting specific gene therapies for future treatment possibilities. Currently, treatment focuses on managing symptoms with a team of specialists, including paediatricians, neurologists, physiotherapists, gastroenterologists, and nutritionists. Children with Angelman syndrome often have their own unique set of symptoms, and their experiences can vary even among those with the same diagnosis. That’s why a personalized approach to treatment is so important—helping ensure that your child receives care tailored to their individual needs and strengths. Angelman Syndrome Symptom Management Strategies: Seizure management – Anti-seizure medications tailored to the child’s needs Physio, occupational, and speech therapy – To support mobility, communication, and daily life skills Assistive devices – Such as ankle/foot braces to improve walking Sleep support – Establishing structured bedtime routines Behavioural therapy – To help with focus, hyperactivity, and social interactions Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve a child’s quality of life. Parent-to-Parent Tips: Navigating Life with Angelman Syndrome Being a parent of a child with any disability can be overwhelming, but you are not alone. Here are some insights from other AS parents: Believe in Your Child Remind yourself that your child is probably capable of more than you think—keep the bar high so they can reach their maximum potential! Your child will meet milestones and make progress, just in their way and time. Be Proactive Start working on communication, daily living skills, and academics before providers suggest it. You know your child best! Find Support There are local and virtual support groups you can join to get more advice from people who have knowledge to share. Some popilar options include: Angelman Syndrome Foundation Angelman Connections Additionally, if you are interested in bringing your child to NAPA for weekly or intensive therapy, we have parent groups on Facebook for each of our clinics: NAPA Centre Australia Parents NAPA Center Los Angeles Parents NAPA Center Austin Parents NAPA Center Boston Parents NAPA Center Charlotte Parents NAPA Center Chicago Parents NAPA Center Denver Parents Visit an AS Clinic Visit an AS clinic! There are clinics globally that can help you better understand your child’s diagnosis. Give Yourself Credit Understand that everyone is not going to be in the same place emotionally all the time. Your love and attention to your child will not go unnoticed. Check out: Angelman Syndrome Foundation – With you for the journey for other resources. Other AS families have put together incredible resources for navigating Angelman syndrome. About the Author Serena Patel is a paediatric physiotherapist at NAPA Centre Los Angeles who received her DPT from Duke University. Outside of her love for kiddos, she enjoys spending time outdoors with her friends and family, reading or baking delicious goodies. Having been trained in dance, she also appreciates sharing her passion with other kids through teaching occasional classes at her old studio! About NAPA Centre At NAPA Center, we take an individualized approach to paediatric therapy because we understand that each child is unique with very specific needs. We embrace differences with an understanding that individualized programs work better. For this reason, no two therapeutic programs are alike. If your child needs our services, we will work closely with you to select the best therapies for them, creating a customized program specific to your child’s needs and your family’s goals. Let your child’s journey begin today by contacting us to learn more. TAGS: Blogs, NAPA Family SHARE: Related Posts Blogs NAPA Family March 21st is Down Syndrome Awareness Day Blogs NAPA Family World Cerebral Palsy Day 2025: Spreading Hope & Awareness Blogs NAPA Family Paediatric Stroke Rehabilitation, Treatment, and Awareness document.cookie = 'nitroCachedPage=' + (!window.NITROPACK_STATE ? '0' : '1') + '; path=/; SameSite=Lax'; PHONE 020 4515 5441 EMAIL info@napacentre.co.uk Stay in the NAPA know. Sign up for our newsletter to receive important updates! 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020 4515 5441 SEARCH Generic selectors Exact matches only Search in title Search in content Post Type Selectors Search in posts Search in pages Accessibility Menu MENU About Us Cody’s Story Meet the Team NAPA Blog Programs Intensive Therapy Paediatric Occupational Therapy Paediatric Physiotherapy Paediatric Speech Pathology Developmental Feeding Therapy Weekly Therapy Telehealth Therapy Tools DMI Functional Estim Galileo Neurosuit Spidercage Vitalstim Theratogs Locations London Brisbane Melbourne Sydney Austin Boston Charlotte Chicago Denver Los Angeles Get Started Intake Forms Intensive Registration Process Frequently Asked Questions Fees MyNAPA Portal Log In Join our Team Careers Students Volunteers Contact Us 28 Best Sensory Toys Recommended by Occupational Therapists Jun 11th, 2025 | by Sarah Epstein, OTD, OTR/L Sarah Epstein, OTD, OTR/L June 11th, 2025 What Are Sensory Toys? Sensory toys are designed to engage one or more of your child’s senses, including touch, movement, sound, sight, oral input, as well as proprioceptive and vestibular systems that support body awareness and balance. They’re more than just fun; they can help children calm their bodies, regulate their emotions, and focus their minds. Want to dive straight in? Skip Ahead: Our OT’s List of the 28 Best Sensory Toys Who Can Benefit from Sensory Toys? (Hint: Almost Every Child!) Children with autism, ADHD, developmental delays, or sensory processing differences often benefit from these kinds of toys. But honestly, all children can benefit from sensory play in some form! In this guide, we’re sharing 28 of our favorite sensory toys, handpicked by NAPA paediatric occupational therapists to help your child feel more regulated and grounded. Understanding Your Child’s Unique Sensory Needs Some kids are sensory seekers. They crave movement, sound, or pressure and are constantly looking for more input. Others are sensory avoiders. They might be extra sensitive to textures, noise, or even bright lights. However your child responds to the world around them, one thing is certain: their sensory system is working hard behind the scenes. What is Sensory Regulation? Sensory regulation is about helping your child find that just-right balance. It’s about giving them the tools they need to feel calm, focused, and ready to play, learn, or connect. Every child experiences the world in their own way. And for many families, sensory toys can be an incredible tool to help support that experience. Providing your child with intentional toys that support their specific sensory needs can help them manage big feelings and respond to stress in a healthy way, thereby promoting emotional regulation. How to Choose the Right Sensory Toys You don’t need a closet full of toys. What matters most is finding the ones that work for your child. Start by observing how your child plays. Do they seek movement, love messy textures, or hum to themselves constantly? Or do they avoid certain sensory experiences? Once you have a sense of what they’re drawn to or what they might benefit from exploring more, you can choose toys that match those needs. 28 Best Sensory Toys for Toddlers and Kids Recommended by an Occupational Therapist Broken down by type of sensory input Proprioceptive and Vestibular Input (Movement and Body Awareness) These are great for toddlers and kids who are always moving, crashing, bouncing, or climbing. The proprioceptive system gives you information from your muscles and joints, while your vestibular system gives you information about where your body is in space. These two systems help us process movement. Kids who can’t sit still or always seem to be finding new ways to use your furniture as a jungle gym will greatly benefit from opportunities for more input into their joints and safe opportunities to move in different ways. The toys below are just a few ways to give them the input they’re seeking! 1. Yoga Ball, Hopper Ball, or Peanut Ball These items can give your child’s proprioceptive and vestibular systems the input they need by bouncing, rolling, or even getting squishes by lying down and having the ball roll over them. 2. Trampoline Giving your child a safe place to get high-intensity input into their joints can help reduce any unsafe sensory seeking they may be engaging in. Try these fun trampoline activities that also build strength and coordination! 3. Scooter Board There are so many ways to use a scooter board to provide your child with opportunities for sensory input. By lying down and using their arms or legs to push themselves forward, they are getting proprioceptive input into their joints and muscles. By spinning or sliding, they can get vestibular or movement input. Explore our favorite scooter board activities for therapy and play! 4. Balance Beam or Stepping Stones Obstacle courses with a balance component are a great way to provide both proprioceptive and vestibular input through movement. Look for toys with different textures for added tactile (touch) input through your child’s feet! 5. Swings Swings are the ultimate vestibular activity, providing changes in your child’s body position to stimulate their sensory system. In most children, linear swinging (swinging back and forth) can produce a calming effect on their bodies and sensory systems. Rotary swinging (spinning) can be alerting to a child’s sensory system, helping them to wake up and increase their energy. Find inspiration here: 5 Ways to Use Your Swing Set for Physical Therapy 6. Sit and Spin A sit-and-spin is another great way to get high-intensity rotary (spinning) input. This is great for the child who seeks out a lot of vestibular input. 7. Yoga Cards or Games Yoga games are a great way to work on your child’s proprioceptive and vestibular processing. Having them work on imitating a position from a picture can help them get a better sense of how their body moves and where it is in space. Get started with these 6 animal yoga poses for kids! 8. Weighted Balls, Stuffed Animals, or Blankets Weighted objects can help provide your child with extra proprioceptive input into their muscles and joints. This often produces a calming effect, which can support their ability to stay seated for longer periods of time. Weighted balls can be used in place of regular balls (throwing, catching, rolling back and forth, etc.) for added input. 9. Tunnels Tunnels are another great way to get your child moving and change their body position. They can be incorporated into obstacle courses or provide a dark and quiet place for your child to take a break. You can have your child push a weighted ball through a tunnel, place the tunnel over pillows or couch cushions (such as the Nugget® Play Couch), or look for a Lycra, compression, or spandex tunnel for increased proprioceptive and tactile input. Tactile Input (Touch) These toys are perfect for kids who either crave messy, hands-on play or who need support tolerating different textures. The tactile system is responsible for how we process touch. If you have a child who always seems to be getting messy, pinches, scratches, or can’t get enough splashing in the tub, these toys may help give your child what they’re seeking! On the flip side, if your child has a hard time with messes, exploring foods, or seems distressed by unexpected touch or uncomfortable clothes, these toys can provide a great opportunity to challenge their tactile system and gradually increase their tolerance for different textures and touch. 10. Kinetic Sand Kinetic sand is a medium-intensity tactile exploration toy. Help your child build sandcastles, learn how to scoop and dump, or just squeeze and explore to provide input in their hands or feet. 11. Pop Tubes and Fidget Toys Many fidget toys, including pop tubes, stretchy snakes, stress balls, and pop-its, are great ways to provide tactile stimulation on the go! They allow your child to squeeze, pull, poke, and pinch various textures for mindless exploration that can help give their sensory systems extra input to help them stay focused and calm during class, car rides, family outings, and more. 12. Bristle Blocks Bristle blocks are a great way to introduce building and creative play while providing tactile input through the bumpy textures. 13. Sensory Bins We love how versatile sensory bins are, while also tapping into nearly all your child or toddler’s sensory systems! All you need is any container and the sensory materials of your choosing – think dry mediums like rice and pinto beans, or wet/messy textures like water beads and shaving cream. Toss in some materials from the kitchen like utensils and containers to also incorporate fine motor and self-help skills – scooping, pouring, mixing! Did we mention you can make sensory bins “taste-safe” by swapping out water beads and shaving cream for things like cooked spaghetti and oats!? 14. Tactile Tiles Tactile tiles are a great way to introduce a variety of textures to your young child or incorporate tactile input into daily activities and therapy exercises. You can include them in obstacle courses, place them under your child’s feet during seated tasks, or place them under hands while working on weight-bearing through arms to encourage open hands. 15. Slime Making Kits Slime is a rich sensory tactile exploration activity for your child who always seems to be getting messy. The slime-making kits add another element by encouraging your child to follow instructions, explore a variety of different textures, and see how they come together to form something new! 16. Putty Thinking putty or discovery putty is another medium-high intensity tactile exploration activity that simultaneously works to strengthen the muscles of your child’s hands. Squeezing, pulling, pinching, and finding objects hidden in the putty are all great ways to explore! 17. Play-Doh or Modeling Clay Play-Doh is one of the most popular tactile sensory toys to introduce to your child. It is medium-low intensity input that allows for a lot of open-ended play. It is also a great way to gradually introduce sensory play to your child, as it will not stick to their hands, and there are many different tools they can use to begin exploring the texture if they’re not ready to touch it with their hands. Visual Input These toys are helpful for kids who love lights, patterns, or spinning visuals. Toddlers or children who crave visual input often hold their iPad close to their face, sit near the TV, or become fixated on fans or other spinning objects. 18. Spin Again Toy The Spin Again Toy provides calming, repetitive visual input as your child watches the gears spin down the tube. They can stack the gears in any order to watch the colors move together in different ways. 19. Star/Light Projector Whether you’re trying to build a sensory room, need calming sensory strategies at bedtime, or want ways to add visual interest to your home, light projectors are a simple, low-cost way to add calming visual sensory input to any space. 20. Storytime Flashlights/Projectors Let your child’s imagination grow and bring bedtime stories to life with added visual input! These types of toys are great for both visual seekers and those who are sensitive to light, as they can be played with in very low light settings. 21. DIY Sensory Bottles Whether premade or homemade, sensory bottles are a simple and effective way to engage your child’s visual system. These calming visual toys also work beautifully as self-regulation tools. Try using one as a visual cue during transitions or when your child needs a moment to reset. Learn how to make your own in this blog post: Sensory Bottles: Our Favorite DIY Sensory Toy 22. Light Up Writing Board This is a great way to add extra visual input and interest to coloring and writing activities. It can be used for the child who gets overwhelmed by visual input by allowing for coloring and writing in a lower light environment, or help increase attention and engagement for those children who need extra sensory stimulation! 23. Marble Run Marble run toys are a really fun way to work on visual tracking, visual attention, and provide added visual input for the child who needs a more dynamic/moving element to their toys. Due to small parts, these toys should always be used with close parent supervision. Auditory Input Many children seek out sound input, but may not be able to access it on their own. You may hear your child making noises to themselves frequently, always wanting to listen to loud music or TV, or tapping and banging on objects at home. These toys are great for kids who hum, tap, or seek out repetitive sounds. 24. Tonies® Music Box Tonies® are a great toy to increase your child’s independence in meeting their auditory sensory needs. They can access stories and music just by placing a small figure on the top of their Tonies box. 25. Musical Instrument Toys While musical instrument toys can be overstimulating to some, they provide an accessible way for children with all abilities to access auditory (and often visual) input. This provides opportunities for learning through cause and effect while receiving high-intensity auditory input. Related Blog Post: 5 Tips for Supporting Auditory Learners at Home Oral Input Many children seek out a lot of oral sensory input, which can lead to unsafe mouthing of objects, biting, and thumb sucking. Oral sensory toys and tools can provide safe opportunities to get input into their jaws, gums, and tongue and reduce the need to mouth unsafe objects. 26. Chewies Chewies are a great, safe way for your child to get input into their jaws. There are a variety of textures, strengths, and shapes to increase accessibility and provide the right amount of input that your child needs. 27. Z-Vibe This is a vibrating tool that comes with a variety of different heads to provide high-intensity oral sensory input. It can be placed on your child’s cheek, tongue, or lips, or just allow your child to chew and explore as they want. 28. Bubbles Blowing bubbles is more than just fun, it’s a powerful oral motor activity that can help organise and calm busy little bodies. Bubble play also supports motor planning, visual tracking, social interaction, and speech development. If a traditional bubble wand is tricky, try using a bubble blower for easier access. And yes, there are even edible, scented, colored, and glow-in-the-dark versions to make it extra exciting. From physiotherapy to occupational, speech, and feeding therapy, bubbles are a favorite tool across the board. Ask your therapist how they love to use them in sessions! Final Thoughts Every child’s sensory needs are unique, and the right toys can make a big difference in how they play, learn, and feel. Whether your child seeks out movement, craves calming input, or needs support with emotional regulation, sensory toys offer meaningful ways to help them thrive. Explore More Sensory Activities and Resources: Sensory Bins for Toddlers: Our Favorite Ideas and Items Designing the Perfect Sensory Room or Area for Your Child How to Make a DIY Crash Pad for Sensory Input 35 Fine Motor Activities: Our Therapists’ Ultimate List 4 DIY Sensory Bottle Ideas by an Occupational Therapist About the Author Sarah Epstein is a Paediatric Occupational Therapist who’s passionate about empowering children and families through sensory-informed play. She believes every child deserves to feel seen, safe, and supported. About NAPA Centre At NAPA, we take a personalised approach to paediatric therapy. Our team of expert therapists provides physical, occupational, speech, and feeding therapy for children of all abilities. With clinics in the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia, we’re proud to help families around the world. Want help choosing the right therapies for your child? Contact our team to schedule a complimentary phone screening. TAGS: Blogs, OT SHARE: Related Posts Blogs PT 5 Physiotherapist Approved IKEA Finds Blogs OT Understanding Sensory Issues in Kids: Signs & Solutions Blogs The Best Down Syndrome Toys — Our Therapists’ Top Picks document.cookie = 'nitroCachedPage=' + (!window.NITROPACK_STATE ? '0' : '1') + '; path=/; SameSite=Lax'; PHONE 020 4515 5441 EMAIL info@napacentre.co.uk Stay in the NAPA know. Sign up for our newsletter to receive important updates! 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020 4515 5441 SEARCH Generic selectors Exact matches only Search in title Search in content Post Type Selectors Search in posts Search in pages Accessibility Menu MENU About Us Cody’s Story Meet the Team NAPA Blog Programs Intensive Therapy Paediatric Occupational Therapy Paediatric Physiotherapy Paediatric Speech Pathology Developmental Feeding Therapy Weekly Therapy Telehealth Therapy Tools DMI Functional Estim Galileo Neurosuit Spidercage Vitalstim Theratogs Locations London Brisbane Melbourne Sydney Austin Boston Charlotte Chicago Denver Los Angeles Get Started Intake Forms Intensive Registration Process Frequently Asked Questions Fees MyNAPA Portal Log In Join our Team Careers Students Volunteers Contact Us What We Wish the World Knew About Down Syndrome Sep 27th, 2025 | by Cait Parr, PT, DPT Cait Parr, PT, DPT September 27th, 2025 October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month This month is all about celebrating the voices, stories, and joy of people with Down syndrome. In this post, NAPA PT Cait Parr shares what she wishes more people knew about Down syndrome. View this post on Instagram A post shared by NAPA Centre (@napaCentre) What Would Adults With Down Syndrome Tell New Parents? As international discussion over prenatal testing for Down syndrome grew, researchers noted one perspective was noticeably absent from the research literature—the voices of people with Down syndrome themselves! In a 2011 study, 296 people with DS shared about their lives and, for the first time, revealed their advice for expectant couples. Their views and responses were collectively and systematically analysed. The overwhelming majority of people with Down syndrome surveyed indicated they live happy and fulfilling lives. When asked, “if a new mom and dad just had a baby with Down syndrome, what would you like to tell them?”, many people with DS wanted to express that their own lives are good, saying “It’s not so bad having Down syndrome” and “If everyone was as happy as me, that would be great.” One individual with Down syndrome shared, “I am very happy in my life. I have friends who care about and love me.” The general sentiment towards the new parents was that they need not worry: “Don’t be afraid. Your baby will have a wonderful life.” Patience was of particular importance to the interview participants with Down syndrome, who stated, “The baby has to work hard. Help the baby reach their goals.” and “Be patient because I found out that it is harder for me to learn.” Many participants also highlighted similarities between people with DS to those without DS, saying “The baby is just like you and me, just a little different.” and “That baby is not different from a regular person just because they have a disability.” We love what these individuals had to say about love: “Love them, and they will love you lots.” “If you love the baby with all your heart, that is what really matters.” NAPA Strives to: Provide education and support to families and caregivers of children with Down syndrome Walk with families and caregivers of children with Down syndrome through the medical issues commonly encountered by the population Empower children with Down syndrome and their families and caregivers with accurate information so that they can take positive action over the course of the lifespan of individuals with Down syndrome Raise awareness and provide an advocacy framework for medical and psychosocial needs commonly encountered by individuals affected by Down syndrome Get Connected! Instagram is a great way to connect with some of our favorite friends with Down syndrome. Here are some of our favorite accounts to follow: @happysoulproject @nothingdownaboutit @mckeonkay – first Capitol Hill lobbyist with DS Kayla McKeon @therealzackg – Peanut Butter Falcon movie star Zach Gottsagen About NAPA Centre NAPA Centre is a world-renowned paediatric therapy clinic with locations throughout the U.S., Australia, and the U.K. NAPA was founded in 2008 by a mother who dedicated her life to finding the best therapies for her son with cerebral palsy. Over fifteen years later, NAPA is now recognised as a global leader in paediatric therapy, offering the best and most innovative tools and methods from around the world. Interested in Bringing Your Child to NAPA? If your child needs our services, we will work closely with you to select the best therapies for them, creating a customised program specific to your child’s needs and your family’s goals. Contact our team today to schedule your free phone screening. Welcome to the NAPA Family! CONTACT NAPA → Find Additional Resources & Inspiration in the NAPA Blog: Raising a Child With Down Syndrome: Tips, Support & Hope Our Favorite Toys For Kids Who Have Down Syndrome 35 Fine Motor Activities: Our Therapists’ Ultimate List First Intensive? 5 Things Your NAPA Team Wants You to Know Teamwork at NAPA: Our Multidisciplinary Approach to Therapy About the Author Cait Parr is a paediatric physiotherapist at NAPA Centre. Her favorite animal is snails, because they remind her to slow down and enjoy the beautiful details about life. TAGS: Blogs, NAPA Family SHARE: Related Posts Blogs PT 5 Home Physiotherapy Exercises for Low Muscle Tone (Hypotonia) Blogs NAPA Family Therapy Options for Children with Down Syndrome: A Guide for Parents Blogs NAPA Family March 21st is Down Syndrome Awareness Day document.cookie = 'nitroCachedPage=' + (!window.NITROPACK_STATE ? 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020 4515 5441 SEARCH Generic selectors Exact matches only Search in title Search in content Post Type Selectors Search in posts Search in pages Accessibility Menu MENU About Us Cody’s Story Meet the Team NAPA Blog Programs Intensive Therapy Paediatric Occupational Therapy Paediatric Physiotherapy Paediatric Speech Pathology Developmental Feeding Therapy Weekly Therapy Telehealth Therapy Tools DMI Functional Estim Galileo Neurosuit Spidercage Vitalstim Theratogs Locations London Brisbane Melbourne Sydney Austin Boston Charlotte Chicago Denver Los Angeles Get Started Intake Forms Intensive Registration Process Frequently Asked Questions Fees MyNAPA Portal Log In Join our Team Careers Students Volunteers Contact Us Meet the Team Check out some of the friendly faces you may meet on your NAPA journey. If you are interested in joining our team, please click here. FILTER BY Clear All Team MEMBER LOCATIONS Choose a Location Los Angeles Sydney Boston Austin Melbourne Denver Chicago Brisbane London Charlotte Department Choose a Department Speech Therapy Occupational Therapy Physical Therapy Leadership Team Office Staff NAPA Center Kidz Academy Counselling Therapy Aide Delaney LeCroy Physical Therapist Delaney LeCroy Physical Therapist Delaney earned her bachelor’s degree in kinesiology with a minor in psychology at Texas A&M University. Gig ’em Aggies! She went on to earn her doctorate in physical therapy back in her hometown at UT Health San Antonio. Delaney feels motivated by helping children build confidence, overcome challenges, and work toward achieving their full potential all while having fun! Outside of her career, Delaney enjoys reading, spending time with her husband, and being active through hiking and pickleball. Mia Oliver Physiotherapist Mia Oliver Physiotherapist As a child, Mia always knew that she would work in the medical field and with children. Originally, she wanted to be a pediatrician, but after spending a summer in college shadowing a pediatric physical therapist, she knew physical therapy was the job for her and changed her major with little second thought. As Mia also has a passion for seeing new places, she began working as a travel PT after graduating for about 2 years, living several different states during that time. However, in 2019, her love of working with kids caused her to settle in Los Angeles where she has lived out her childhood dreams and what she believes to her life’s purpose. However, Mia does continue to enjoy visiting new places, both in the country and internationally when not busy improving the lives of little ones through PT. Ashley Beato Physical Therapist Ashley Beato Physical Therapist Ashley graduated from Boston University after earning her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. Her desire to help people realize their potential, meet their goals, and to promote overall well-being was what made her choose this field. Ashley first discovered PT when watching her little sister receive services as an infant. She was inspired and thought it was deeply meaningful work to help a little one achieve their developmental goals. Her interest only grew after becoming a student and gaining experience working with children in the PICU. Ashley also completed her last clinical rotation at NAPA! She is overjoyed to be working with this amazing community of children and families. In her free time, you can find Ashley watching TV, attending a game night, finding a creative outlet, making travel plans, and having deep conversations with friends over coffee. Kaitlin Dierksheide Occupational Therapist Kaitlin Dierksheide Occupational Therapist Kaitlin always knew she wanted to go into healthcare but once she found the field of pediatric occupational therapy, she knew that was the perfect career for her. Growing up, Kaitlin loved helping out with children in Special Olympics, coaching lacrosse, and serving in the kids area at her church. As an OT, Kaitlin loves the opportunity to help others do the things they need and want to do each day, the opportunities for continuous learning, and applying ideas of human physiology/anatomy and development to her work. Kaitlin moved to Boston in 2019 from Ohio to attend MGH Institute of Health Professions where she earned her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy in 2022. Since graduating from OT school, Kaitlin has worked in outpatient pediatrics and inpatient rehab where she worked with patients post-TBI, post-stroke, as well as pediatrics. In her free time, Kaitlin loves going on walks along the harbor, trying out the endless restaurants around the city with her husband, and game nights with friends. Molly Kleppin Occupational Therapist Molly Kleppin Occupational Therapist Molly attended Clarke University in Dubuque, Iowa where she received bachelor’s degrees in social work and psychology. Inspired by social justice and her passion for working with children, she went on to pursue a Master of Occupational Therapy degree from Elmhurst University. Her fieldwork experiences vary, however, she has always been motivated to work alongside children. She has previous experience working with the pediatric population dating back to 2013 when she began cultivating her passion as a 1:1 summer camp counselor for children with various diagnoses. The opportunity to work for such an innovative and unique company as NAPA Center has inspired her to move across the country to train and prepare for the new clinic opening in Chicago. In her free time, Molly enjoys traveling, playing and watching sports, spending time with family and friends, and most of all exploring with her dog, Mack. Cynthia Monique Lopez Early Intervention Assistant Cynthia Monique Lopez Early Intervention Assistant B.A. Human Development; Cynthia always knew she wanted to work in the healthcare field with children but never thought of Pediatric Occupational Therapy until she was introduced to the field once in college. Through many years of volunteering with a non-profit called Special Needs Network Inc, she knew she always wanted to work with kids hands on in a more adaptive environment. As well as being apart a C.O.R.E. fellowship that has helped her focus on her skills and technique alongside several different healthcare professionals. It is a year full long signed contract that has allowed her to earn The Early Intervention and DEI certificate through the USC Race, Diversity and Equity Center with Dr. Shaun Harper. On her downtime she enjoys Pilates, yoga, the gym, beach walks, and hiking. Enjoying life with her friends and family is something she focuses on her weekends or having downtime with good food and binge watching shows. Rebecca Pierpont Occupational Therapist - Lead Rebecca Pierpont Occupational Therapist - Lead Doctor of Occupational Therapy, MGH Institute of Health Professions Rebecca has always been drawn to both working with children and the health sciences for as long as she can remember. She was unsure of how it would all come together in a career until she crossed paths with occupational therapy as an undergraduate student at Elon University in North Carolina. She was inspired by the emphasis occupational therapy puts on both physical and mental well-being and moved to Boston right after graduation to pursue her doctorate. Prior to NAPA Center, Rebecca worked at a children’s hospital treating kids in both the inpatient and outpatient settings. She is now back at the Boston clinic after spending the last 18 months helping to get NAPA UK up and running! Becca loves the collaboration between PTs and SLPs at NAPA. Her clinical interests include motor development and primitive reflexes for which she is becoming a certified primitive reflex integration specialist. In her free time she enjoys international travel, good food, and live theatre Steffi Lao Clinic Aide Steffi Lao Clinic Aide Steffi is deeply passionate about serving others and promoting both physical and mental well-being. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science and is currently pursuing a career in physical therapy, with plans to earn her Doctorate in the field. A former USTA tournament player and collegiate athlete at Quincy University, Steffi now works as a professional tennis coach, teaching students of all ages—from young beginners to adults. She is thrilled to join the team at NAPA and contribute to its mission of empowering children with disabilities to reach their fullest potential. Naseerah Laher Occupational Therapist Naseerah Laher Occupational Therapist Naseerah Laher Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy – University of WitwatersrandAyres Sensory Integration and SOS Feeding Approach Certified Becoming an Occupational Therapist has always been Naseerah’s passion, purpose and true life’s calling. As a result, she has poured her heart, time and effort into striving to be a dedicated and skilled therapist.Naseerah graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy from the University of Witwatersrand. She then went on to certify in various postgraduate courses in order to further and deepen her knowledge and skills. Naseerah has a particular area of interest in early childhood intervention and has spent considerable time gaining valuable skills and certifications in this area. When Naseerah is not at work, she can frequently be find at a local coffee store eating a pastry, taking a walk in her nearest park or exploring new cities. Naseerah strives to combine knowledge, fun and kindness in order to make a positive difference in the lives of the children and families that she works with. She believes in the quote “Children are not things to be moulded but are people to be unfolded.” —Jess LairShe truly believes that it is a privilege to be able to carry out her true life’s purpose. Emma Droop Administration Coordinator Emma Droop Administration Coordinator Emma always knew she wanted to be able to help people in her work and with growing up with a lot of younger cousins, children have been a big part of her life. This has led to Emma working in the paediatric disability sector for the past 3yrs. Emma is passionate about helping children with disabilities, and their families, on their therapy journey’s! She is very excited to be joining the NAPA Team, learning more about the organisation and connecting with families. Emma has recently moved to Sydney from Newcastle and is still enjoying exploring the big city! When Emma isn’t at work she loves to spend time with friends and family, catching up over coffee and food. When the weather is good she will be down at beach, relaxing and reading a book. The gym and netball is another favourite hobby of Emma’s, as well as baking and cooking!! Connor Pawlik Physiotherapist Connor Pawlik Physiotherapist Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours) Originally from the Hunter Valley with a Polish heritage, Connor graduated from the University of Newcastle in 2022 and moved to Sydney to pursue a career in Paediatric Physiotherapy. Connor always wanted to help kids as he was inspired by his mother who worked as a teacher’s aide for disabled children at his local primary school. Once commencing his Physiotherapy degree, he became extremely interested in paediatrics, instantly knowing this what he wanted to do for the rest of his life. At the beginning of Connor’s final year, he attended the Sydney NAPA Centre for his first ever placement and fell in love with the field, his colleagues, and most importantly, the children! To this date he still remembers stating on his last day of placement “this isn’t the last you’ve seen of me”. When Connor finds some spare time, he likes to remain physically active by going rock climbing or to the gym. However, Connor also loves to go on random adventures with his Fiancé, camping trips with his friends, or visiting his family back home. Su-hwei Moey Speech Language Pathologist Su-hwei Moey Speech Language Pathologist Su-hwei thrives on connecting with children and is a strong advocate for a family-centered practice. She chose the field of speech pathology because of the many wonderful opportunities to help to discover and nurture a child’s potential and to celebrate their achievements. She enjoys making her sessions fun and is passionate about empowering parents and caregivers to best support the needs of their children. Su-hwei’s areas of interest include early intervention, speech and language disorders, literacy, feeding/swallowing disorders, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) and social communication difficulties. Su-hwei loves a nice sunny day and can be found exploring the outdoors, running and going on hikes. When not out and about, she loves reading and getting crafty. Hannah Bennett Speech Language Pathologist Hannah Bennett Speech Language Pathologist Masters of Speech and Language Pathology, Macquarie University. Hannah’s experience working with children with intellectual and physical disabilities has led to her interests in Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and Early Language Development. Hannah always had a passion for working in the disability community, even prior to becoming a Speech Pathologist. She has had experience in early language, AAC, motor speech, and many other elements of the profession. Hannah loves an integrated approach across multiple disciplines to allow collaborative plans with families and caregivers to achieve the best outcomes for clients. In her spare time, you’ll find at the beach or exploring a new bushwalk with her dog Patch. Sarah Johnston Director of Rehabilitation Sarah Johnston Director of Rehabilitation Bachelor of Physiotherapy, The Australian Catholic University Sarah has always had a love of working with children. She worked as a junior school sports coach and a nanny whilst studying physiotherapy at university. Sarah affirmed her passion for working with children after a paediatric placement at Royal North Shore Hospital. To further grow her physiotherapy knowledge she completed a Graduate programme at Royal North Shore Hospital. Her experience in working with a variety of neurological conditions combined with her love of paediatrics saw her transition to the NAPA Centre as the perfect fit! Sarah is a caring team member eager to be involved in an energetic, inclusive and passionate environment. She is driven to making a positive impact in the lives of children and their families. Sarah is very excited to be involved with our supportive NAPA team! If Sarah isn’t at work, you most likely find her playing hockey. Sarah is also a keen baker, enjoys going to the beach or watching Grey’s Anatomy! Kelly Woodruff Administrative Assistant Kelly Woodruff Administrative Assistant Kelly has over 12 years of experience helping numerous administrative positions in a variety of industries. Born with a passion to help, she has always found a way to give back through efforts ranging from coordinating nonprofit fundraisers to simply organizing a beach cleanup day with friends. Working at NAPA has allowed her to blend her administration skills with her passion to help. Kelly enjoys boating, entertaining friends, concerts in the park, and spending time with her family. Emily Romero Occupational Therapist Emily Romero Occupational Therapist Emily discovered the field of Occupational Therapy when exploring health science professions that allowed her to continue her passion of working with children. Prior to becoming an occupational therapist, Emily began working with children at the age of 12 as a babysitter for the other children in her neighborhood. During this time, Emily developed a level of patience and dependability that are crucial when working with children of varying ages and capabilities. While she is very responsible, Emily enjoys working with kids because she gets to showcase her silly and goofy personality, making therapy sessions fun for all. Emily graduated from Quinnipiac University’s accelerated, entry-level dual-degree program receiving a Bachelor’s degree in Health Science Studies and a Master’s degree of Occupational Therapy. When she is not helping children reach their highest potential, Emily can most likely be found traveling, reading, or re-watching her favorite TV shows. Originally from New Jersey, Emily enjoys exploring Boston on the weekends and is still in search for the city’s best bagel shop. Zoe Duong Physiotherapist Zoe Duong Physiotherapist Growing up the eldest of her 20+ cousins, Zoe has always been surrounded by kids and enjoys teaching and inspiring them to pursue their own passions, as she did with artistic gymnastics. Her commitment to the sport taught her the value of discipline, determination and sheer belief; and the positive effect of movement on the developing body. Zoe grew her passion for paediatrics as she rotated through her new-graduate year at a large tertiary hospital in Sydney. It was here that Zoe was involved with treating acutely unwell children with a variety of medical backgrounds which inspired her to seek opportunities to help maximise the potential of these children when they were well – hence her big move to NAPA. In her spare time, you will usually find Zoe at the gym or experimenting in the kitchen – any delicious recipe suggestions are welcome! Emily Beard Occupational Therapy Manager Emily Beard Occupational Therapy Manager University of Sydney – Bachelor of Applied Science (Occupational Therapy) Honours Emily is a motivated and creative Occupational Therapist who is passionate about working with children. Emily’s love for working with children grew from her large family and was further established after a placement at the Children’s Hospital in Westmead. Emily has experience working as an OT with a range of children and families in both Perth and Sydney. Emily is committed to supporting children to meet their goals in a fun and creative way. Emily values collaboration with all the important people in a child’s life to support children to reach their potential. When Emily is not working she enjoys spending time with family and friends, running and completing art projects! Valerie Scharvi Administration Coordinator Valerie Scharvi Administration Coordinator Val is a people focused person. One of her many appreciations she enjoys in her role is the people, culture & the organisation. What attracted Val to working at NAPA is the opportunity to interact with the beautiful children, the parents, & the environment NAPA creates. Being the 2nd to youngest in a family of 8 brothers & 1 sister, & raised on a farm in New Zealand (a bit like a Dolly Parton family), meant she was brought up with a lot of love, laughter & respect. Val has held a variety of administrative positions in various industries, & has travelled, lived & worked not only in her home country New Zealand, but also the U.K. twice & now here in Australia. Val is known to enjoy the odd glass of wine, coffee & cake (especially likes home baking) keeping fit, being out on the water & has been a learner skier for many years. What is closet to Val’s heart is her family, friends & the people in her life. Gabriella Hume Early Intervention Assistant Gabriella Hume Early Intervention Assistant Gabriella earned a Bachelor’s degree in Deaf Studies with a concentration in Occupational Therapy from California State University, Northridge. With a strong foundation in communication and accessibility, Gabriella brings a unique perspective to her work with children. She believes in the power of play as a foundation for growth and loves finding creative, fun ways to help kids build confidence, independence, and essential life skills. Her passion for supporting kids in reaching their fullest potential was sparked early on and continues to grow through hands-on experiences and meaningful connections with families. Caitlin McMillan Physiotherapist Caitlin McMillan Physiotherapist Caitlin comes all the way from Belfast, Ireland. She graduated in 2020 and began working in paediatrics shortly after. Before arriving on the Gold Coast in 2024, Caitlin worked with many children, on their physiotherapy goals, in hospitals, clinics, schools and within their own homes. Caitlin is delighted to be part of the NAPA family and is ready to help children meet their full potential. She is passionate about working with families to provide family centred care and ensuring children enjoy their therapy sessions. When not in NAPA, you will probably find Caitlin in a Pilates studio, at the beach or in a bakery eating something sweet! Nicole (Niki) MacWhirter Occupational Therapist Nicole (Niki) MacWhirter Occupational Therapist MS Occupational Therapy, New York University Niki chose occupational therapy because of her passion for human psychology, child development, and advocacy. She loves being part of a profession that promotes independence and inclusion for all people. Witnessing children reach milestones and master skills, inspires her to continue growing as a clinician. Niki appreciates that NAPA is a hub for innovation, creativity, and learning. Her special interests include feeding therapy; she hopes to become a feeding specialist to work with children with sensory and oral motor challenges. Cooking, hot yoga, running, live music, and discovering new restaurants around Los Angeles are how she sparks joy. Jesus Cejudo Occupational Therapist Jesus Cejudo Occupational Therapist Coming soon! Abi Huntress Occupational Therapist Abi Huntress Occupational Therapist Bachelor of Occupational Therapy, Griffith University Abi has always had an interest in working with children, with 5 younger siblings and dozens of cousins, it was inevitable that she would work in the pediatric space. With 6 years of experience in early childhood education, she is always on the lookout for new and exciting ways to engage and connect with children. Abi finds joy in supporting each child’s unique developmental pace and celebrating any and every milestone. In her free time, you will find Abi exploring markets and soaking up the sunshine with ocean swims and long walks. Shannon Howland Occupational Therapy Supervisor Shannon Howland Occupational Therapy Supervisor Shannon was introduced to the field of occupational therapy by her twin sister; Following a degree in Psychology and 15 years working with children with Autism and intellectual disabilities in various capacities, as well as with refugees in humanitarian aid, Shannon returned to school in 2017 to earn her graduate degree in Occupational Therapy from Rockhurst University in Kansas City, MO. She has specialised in work with emotional and behavioral regulation and executive functioning, and particularly enjoys educating and collaborating with parents and caregivers to promote sustained growth and functional independence. She has recently taken special interest in reflex integration and is excited for the opportunity to learn and grow as a therapist with NAPA. Shannon has lived throughout the U.S. and in Greece, and enjoys traveling, hiking, watching sports, and exploring new restaurants; she anticipates more adventures with her relocation to Australia! Rasesh Shah Vice President of Finance and Business Intelligence Rasesh Shah Vice President of Finance and Business Intelligence B.A. in Economics, from University of Texas at Austin & MBA from San Francisco State University Rush joins NAPA Center as the Vice President of Finance and Business Intelligence where he’ll oversee all reporting, finance, accounting, and billing functions. Rush brings over 15 years of experience in healthcare, previously as the Director of Finance at Providence. Prior to that, Rush was a Finance Director at Kaiser Permanente. Rush holds a B.A in Economics from the University of Texas at Austin, and a MBA from San Francisco State University. In his spare time, you’ll find Rush on the golf course, at the beach, or traveling with his family. Rush lives in Playa Vista with his wife and 2 kids (son age 5 and daughter age 7). Sarah Lippiatt Speech Therapy Manager Sarah Lippiatt Speech Therapy Manager Bachelor of Speech Pathology from Australian Catholic University Sarah’s passion has always been and continues to be working with children with physical disabilities and complex communication needs. She always says the most enriching part of her job is watching the sheer determination and resilience these children have in working towards their goals. Sarah has worked previously in Special schools and private practice gaining experience and training in the areas of AAC, literacy, dysphagia management and speech and language disorders. She strives to work with families to create positive, fun and supportive environments in all her sessions. When not at work, Sarah’s creativity expands into the world of amateur theatre where she volunteers her time working with Scouts and Guides of Melbourne in developing and realising their theatrical skills and putting on a show for all to enjoy. Macy Morikawa Speech Language Pathologist Macy Morikawa Speech Language Pathologist Macy has always had a special connection with children and new from an early age that she was destined to work with kiddos. Macy received her B.A. and M.A. in Speech-Language Pathology from California State University, Long Beach. She is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of her patients by improving communication abilities in order to create and build deeper connections between children and their loved ones. Macy has been afforded the opportunity to provide services to children with a variety of conditions and diagnoses. Her clinical experience includes feeding therapy, gestalt language processing, early intervention and parent training, fluency, and PROMPT. She is excited for the challenge to continually strive to exceed NAPA Center’s mission by providing hope to patients and families through implementation of innovative treatment services in order to maximize the full potential of each child. When not in a NAPA t-shirt, you can catch Macy dancing hula, eating a churro at Disneyland, cheering for the Chicago Cubs (Dodgers, too!) and LA Lakers, watching F1 on Sundays (Go Ferrari!), learning how to play golf, or taking any sort of exercise class. Harper Kim Speech Language Pathologist Harper Kim Speech Language Pathologist Harper earned her B.A. in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences from San Diego State University and received her M.S. in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences from San Francisco State University. Harper’s interest in speech therapy began with her experience working with kids in her mom’s elementary school classroom. When her mom experienced medical challenges of her own, Harper’s passion for fostering accessibility, autonomy, and family support grew. Harper fell in love with the NAPA community during her placement here as an intern, and is thrilled to be returning as a team member! She loves to see how therapy can impact individuals and their families both inside and outside of the therapy setting. Outside of NAPA, Harper enjoys catching up with friends at coffee shops in her hometown of Los Angeles, and she loves spending time outdoors doing activities like running, camping, and playing basketball. Jenny Swan Physical Therapist Jenny Swan Physical Therapist Jenny studied Exercise Science at The University of Texas and earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Touro College in New York City. During PT school she babysat for a NAPA family which inspired her to come to Los Angeles for an internship and the rest is history! She has always loved working with children and spent a year in Switzerland working as an au pair. Her favorite part about being a PT is having the opportunity to recognize the unique potential in each child and empowering families with support and knowledge to help their kids succeed. Jenny runs on coffee (ask her where to get the best cappuccino in town) and good vibes only. Kaitlin Love Speech Language Pathologist Kaitlin Love Speech Language Pathologist Ever since Kaitlin was young, she always knew she wanted to help people. After finding her way into speech pathology she became truly passionate about supporting those with communication and swallowing needs. Kaitlin also has a unique perspective on NAPA, as she started as a therapy aide assisting occupational therapists and physiotherapists whilst completing her degree. This provided Kaitlin with an amazing opportunity to not only learn about the other disciplines, but also develop relationships with inspiring NAPA children and their families. Following her studies, Kaitlin knew she wanted to become a speechie at NAPA, as the opportunity to work with and support such amazing children and their families could not be missed. In her spare time Kaitlin is constantly trying out new hobbies and spending time with her family, friends and 2 dogs! Michelle Chen Speech Language Pathologist Michelle Chen Speech Language Pathologist Master of Speech and Language Therapy Practice, University of Auckland Michelle’s passion for helping others and working with children began during her time as a sports coach, which led her to become a speech pathologist. Her previous role at a special school developed her interests in early intervention, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), and feeding and swallowing difficulties. Michelle is dedicated to creating fun and playful sessions for all clients, and enjoys collaborating with other professionals to empower families to best support their loved one. Outside of work, you’ll find Michelle trying new cafes and restaurants, reading mystery books, and baking sweet treats. Kayee Xiong Physical Therapist Kayee Xiong Physical Therapist Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences Kayee graduated from the University of Washington and continued to receive her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. Kayee’s love for working with kids and interest in health science has brought her to pediatric physical therapy. She is passionate about impacting kids and their family’s lives through innovative treatment, education, and play! Kayee prioritizes spending quality time with her family and friends outside of NAPA Center. New to California, you will find her exploring new places and restaurants in the area and running along the beach. Aoife Slattery Assistant Manager Aoife Slattery Assistant Manager BSc (Hons) Occupational therapy, Coventry University, United Kingdom. Aoife (pronounced EEFA) is an Irish OT bow back at the London clinic. Aoife has been passionate about working with children ever since she was younger as her mum is a paediatric nurse. Aoife loves the fact that she can bring play and creativity into her therapy sessions and that no 2 days will look the same at NAPA. In the UK Aoife worked in the Royal Bristol Children’s Hospital as an Acute OT working in areas of orthopaedics, Oncology, Cardiac and PICU. Aoife is excited to be apart of the NAPA team with the aim to continue her learning in a different paediatric setting. Aoife is fun, creative, and enthusiastic and can’t wait to help the NAPA kids to reach their goals. When not at NAPA, you’ll find Aoife swimming at the beach, walking the coastal routes with her second coffee of the day or hanging out with friends. Olivia de Ronde Physiotherapist Olivia de Ronde Physiotherapist Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Distinction), University of Otago Olivia decided to study physiotherapy as she wanted an active job where she could help people and thought it aligned well with her love of sports. As she progressed through her studies, she discovered her love for neurorehabilitation and paediatrics. A paediatric placement and volunteering with a few young boys with Autism, Global Developmental Delay, and Cerebral Palsy lead her to a role working in a Special school after graduating. After three years, Olivia moved over from New Zealand to work at NAPA Melbourne. Olivia loves working in paediatric therapy as it requires creativity, problem solving, and to be a little bit silly. Outside of NAPA Olivia can be found playing all sorts of sports. As a former soccer player, she has recently changed codes and is now training for her next boxing match. She is also a bit of a foodie, plant mum, and loves adventuring and exploring the outdoors, especially anything to do with water. Zeena C Occupational Therapist Zeena C Occupational Therapist Zeena graduated from Western Sydney University with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy. Her passion for working with children with special needs stemmed from her early exposure to her older brother, who lives with Cerebral Palsy and an intellectual disability. Accompanying him to therapy sessions inspired her to pursue a career as an occupational therapist. Zeena is dedicated to helping children achieve their goals and supporting families, drawing from the assistance her family was provided. During her placements, she gained valuable experience in mental health and hospital settings. Zeena also completed her 6-week university placement at Napa Centre, reinforcing her commitment to working with children with neurological disorders and physical disabilities. Previously, she worked as an allied health assistant, focusing on children with intellectual disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Global Development Delays. Zeena brings brightness and energy to her therapy sessions, aiming to create a fun atmosphere. Outside of Napa Centre, she enjoys exploring new food spots, traveling to new places, and spending quality time with her family and friends. Lizbeth Hererra Speech Language Pathologist Lizbeth Hererra Speech Language Pathologist MA in Speech-Language Pathology from A.T. Still University, Lizbeth has always been passionate about working with children and making a difference. She fell in love with the field of Speech-Language Pathology after meeting and shadowing two influential SLPs and believing that everyone deserves to communicate in their own way. As a native of Southern California, her previous experience includes working with the Los Angeles School District for five years, and her clinical background includes early intervention and school-based settings. After experiencing the opportunity to be a NAPA graduate student intern, she fell in love with the impact of patient- and family-centered therapy, the multidisciplinary approach, the collaboration among different professions to help increase patients’ success, and NAPA’s mission. Lizbeth’s interests include feeding, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), and early intervention. You can find Lizbeth learning to cook, dancing, enjoying outdoor activities, and traveling with her family and her fur baby, Roxie. Micayla Pedrick Physical Therapy Assistant Manager Micayla Pedrick Physical Therapy Assistant Manager BS in Health Studies & Doctorate of PT, Boston University Pediatric Clinical Specialist Micayla has over 8 years of clinical experience working in early intervention, pediatric inpatient and outpatient clinics, and in the specialized school setting with children from birth to 22 years of age. Micayla received her pediatric clinical specialist certification in physical therapy in 2025. Her passion lies in assisting children of all abilities to maximize their participation in all aspects of their lives, while providing their families with the necessary tools to meet these goals. She is a strong believer in the intensive therapy model of care and loves being a part of the amazing NAPA Boston team! In her free time, Micayla enjoys cooking, reading, being outdoors, traveling, and spending time with her family, friends, and 7 year old Husky, Theo. Eliana Birdich Physical Therapist Eliana Birdich Physical Therapist Elaina is a Doctor of Physical Therapy who brings energy, compassion, and dedication to her work with children. She earned both her Bachelor of Science and Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Marquette University in Milwaukee, WI. Her passion for pediatric therapy stems from the joy and unpredictability that working with children brings—she loves that no two days are ever the same and how every child is unique in their own way. Elaina finds the most rewarding part of her work to be watching children reach milestones they’ve worked hard to achieve and seeing their confidence grow along the way. She believes in the power of play, movement, and individualized care to help every child reach their full potential. Outside of work, Elaina enjoys staying active and social—she loves playing pickleball, attending trivia nights, and spending quality time with her friends and family. Lauren Wiggers Occupational Therapist Lauren Wiggers Occupational Therapist MA in Occupational Therapy from Touro University & BS in Recreational Therapy from East Carolina University Lauren always had a special love and desire to work with children during her years of schooling and knew she wanted to continue this passion when she began working. She has experience working with children in Early Intervention (0-3 year olds) and wanted to expand her growth as a practitioner serving children and their families. While obtaining her bachelors in Recreational Therapy, Lauren obtained her Level One Adaptive Skiing certification while living in Big Bear, CA and knew she wanted to support others in reaching their goals, which is why she continued her studies in Occupational Therapy. When Lauren is not working at NAPA, she loves to maintain a healthy lifestyle by playing pickleball, volleyball, snowboarding, and going for long nature walks/hikes. Lauren also loves to camp and visit national parks during her free time. Stephanie Leaf Speech Language Pathologist Stephanie Leaf Speech Language Pathologist Stephanie became interested in becoming a speech therapist following her experience as a parent of a child with delayed speech. She earned her Master of Science degree in Speech Language Pathology from Nova Southeastern University and has since worked with children with varying levels of abilities in early intervention, home health, and pediatric outpatient clinics. Stephanie is excited to be a part of the intensive model at NAPA. Outside of work, she enjoys yoga, skiing, and hiking with her family and their two Goldendoodles Luke and Leia. Anneka Mathias Physiotherapy Manager Anneka Mathias Physiotherapy Manager Bachelor of Physiotherapy, Australia Catholic University Anneka grew up in Sydney but after graduating University in 2016, she went off to Melbourne to pursue a career in Paediatric Physiotherapy. Her ‘2 or so’ year stint in Melbourne turned out to be longer! She fell in love with the city, it’s lifestyle, culture and sport! She has since worked in early intervention, specialising in paediatric equipment as well with children and adults in the community. Anneka is an enthusiastic, fun therapist who believes it’s important for all children to reach their full potential. She loves seeing the look on a child’s face (and everyone around them!) when they achieve something new and amazing. When she’s not at NAPA, you’ll probably find Anneka out socialising with friends, watching the AFL (Go Swans!) or out on an adventure with her dog, Parsley. Garrett Neeley Patient Coordinator Garrett Neeley Patient Coordinator AAS Sound Technology, South Plains College Garrett has a passion for helping others and chose a career with NAPA to use that passion to help children and their families. Before working at NAPA, he worked in the restaurant industry, technology sales, as well as various delivery positions. Across all these positions, Garrett’s favorite part was making someone else’s day, something he plans to continue in his role as Patient Coordinator at NAPA. Garrett is married and has two children, both boys, who keep him very busy at home! In his free time, he loves to learn about and use new technology, play and write music, play video games, and watch sports. Joshua Phelan Clinic Aide Joshua Phelan Clinic Aide Joshua chose to work at NAPA because of his interests in helping others. Prior to working at NAPA, he worked at a Retirement community doing maintenance. At first he didn’t know how he would like it, but after some time he built relationships with the residents and could see the joy on their face when he would come to help them. He has worked in many fields in my life and the ones he always come back to are the ones that involve helping and serving the community. In my free time he enjoys the outdoors and traveling. One day Joshua hope to go back to school and get into music production and sound engineering. Kelsi Parker Physiotherapist Kelsi Parker Physiotherapist Kelsi grew up on the West Coast of Canada where her love for sports and outdoors first inspired her passion for movement. She completed her Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology at the University of British Columbia before moving to Sydney to pursue a Master’s in Physiotherapy. Her journey into paediatric physiotherapy began with volunteering at a children’s physio clinic and Special Olympics during undergrad, and solidified with a clinical placement at a paediatric hospital. These opportunities showed her the powerful impact physiotherapy can have on young lives, and she is committed to supporting children in reaching their fullest potential. She believes that physiotherapy should be both effective and fun, helping children develop confidence and independence in every session.When she’s not at NAPA, Kelsi can be found running, rock climbing, or exploring Melbourne’s bike trails. Leila Atkins Early Intervention Assistant Leila Atkins Early Intervention Assistant Leila earned a bachelors degree in Child Development from California State University, Los Angeles. Since then, she has enjoyed working in different environments with children in early childhood education and as a behavior tech working with children with Autism. Now, pursing a degree as a Speech Language Pathology Assistant, she looks forward to continuing to work and learn in the field early intervention. She enjoys building connections with young children and assisting to plan and/or implement engaging lessons and activities. When she’s not at NAPA, in her downtime you can find her reading, scrapbooking, or trying a new craft. Matt Nagovan Clinic Aide Matt Nagovan Clinic Aide Matt was a high school maths teacher for many years, and enjoys interacting with children much more than adults. He is excited to help out around NAPA, which will provide the opportunity to make a positive impact in the local community. When at home, Matt will usually be found in the kitchen doing some cooking. He spends far too much money on cheese and coffee, but such is life. Matt is ecstatic to be here in England, and is looking forward to getting to know his new community. Rachel Glozman Occupational Therapist Rachel Glozman Occupational Therapist MS Occupational Therapy, Stanbridge University Rachel’s passion for occupational therapy started early, when she herself received OT services with her triplet siblings from being born prematurely. She sees first hand how much therapy helps with independence, motivation and achieving lifelong goals. In her free time Rachel enjoys hiking, spending time with her friends and siblings, and reading books. Rachel enjoys the opportunity to collaborate with children and family members to create the best life possible! Kristen Ballhorn Occupational Therapist Kristen Ballhorn Occupational Therapist Kristen graduated from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan with a double Bachelor’s in Spanish and Health Science followed by a Master’s in Occupational Therapy where her desire for helping others continued to flourish. Following graduation with fieldwork placements at the University of Michigan pediatric facility and a brain injury rehabilitation clinic, she continued her passion for providing learning and movement opportunities for children with neurological conditions and developmental delays at a pediatric clinic within the Las Vegas area. Kristen takes pride in promoting positive and fun therapeutic environments for patients and their families so each child can achieve their highest potential across a variety of environments. While Kristen is ecstatic to be a part of the NAPA team, she looks forward to seeing each child become stronger, empowered, and confident through play-based activities inside and outside of the clinic. When Kristen is not occupied at the NAPA center, she enjoys learning new hobbies, such as surfing and snowboarding, traveling, spending time with her dog Diego, and meeting new people! Ralph Mugano Physiotherapist Ralph Mugano Physiotherapist Meet Ralph, an honorary sidekick to the superhero kids at NAPA! When he’s not donning his capes and assisting the super kids in maximising their function, you can spot him perfecting his golf swing or catching some Z’s on the beach. Ralph stumbled upon his passion for paediatrics during his days as a support worker. Ralph watched the incredible impact that therapists had on children’s lives. This left him in awe of the world of difference that they could provide. Since then, he’s made it his mission to do the same. Watch out, though – Ralph’s got a soft spot for chocolate and passionfruit-flavored kombucha. They are his kryptonite!! Who can resist the allure of sweetness and fizz? Whether he’s relaxing on the beach or kicking back with a chocolate bar and a fizzy kombucha, Ralph is a guy who knows how to balance the seriousness of work with the hilarity of life. Anaissa Magallanes Early Intervention Assistant Anaissa Magallanes Early Intervention Assistant Anaissa is a huge family person and has always been passionate about working with children. Laura Midday Speech Language Pathologist Laura Midday Speech Language Pathologist Laura chose the field of speech-language pathology when she was in high school, after working at a summer camp for children with special needs at her local park district. She completed her undergraduate and graduate studies at the University of Nebraska Omaha. Since becoming a speech-language pathologist, Laura has worked with children ages birth to thirteen years. She has spent most of her career working as an SLP in the field of applied behavior analysis (ABA), where she obtained a certification as a registered behavior technician. In addition to behavior, Laura is passionate about collaborating with families to empower them to best support their loved ones’ communication abilities. When she is not working, Laura enjoys spending time with her dog, Pepper who is a toy Australian Shepherd. She also loves being active outdoors, doing yoga, and watching reality TV series. Melissa Howard Patient Coordinator Melissa Howard Patient Coordinator Melissa is a dedicated Patient Coordinator at NAPA, where she plays a vital role in supporting families and ensuring each patient receives the care and attention they deserve. With a strong passion for helping others, she’s committed to making a positive impact on every family’s journey.A university graduate with a degree in music, Melissa has always been drawn to creativity and connection. When she’s not at NAPA, you’ll find her enjoying live gigs, music festivals, and discovering new artists. She’s also an avid explorer of new hobbies, loves spending time with family and friends, and enjoys unwinding with a good podcast.Her natural connection with children and a desire to make a meaningful difference in their lives led her to this incredible opportunity to support children and their families. Combining her love for creativity and helping others, Melissa brings a fresh, energetic approach to everything she does. Melissa is always ready to connect, support, and bring a positive vibe to every conversation. Mikaela Hills Occupational Therapist Mikaela Hills Occupational Therapist Bachelor of Occupational Therapy from Australia Catholic University. Mikaela has always known that she wanted to work with children, and coached gymnastics in high school and through university, so has been surrounded by children for a large part of her life. Coaching provided her with a keen interest in using movement to aid in development in a fun play-based manner. Her favourite part about working with NAPA is seeing the excitement the children face during their sessions when they have achieved something new, or hearing stories and updates from parents. She loves that fun and joy that comes out of NAPA sessions. When not at NAPA you will find Mikaela either in the pool or at the beach, and on weekends she loves going for a walk with a coffee and getting an almond croissant which is definitely a guilty pleasure! Megan DeKeyser Speech Language Pathologist, Community Outreach Coordinator Megan DeKeyser Speech Language Pathologist, Community Outreach Coordinator M.A. Speech-Language Pathology, Central Michigan University | Megan’s interest in the field of speech-language pathology began in high school following a day of shadowing an SLP. She admired the combination of health science, patient connection, and communication access within the field. Megan earned her B.S. from Grand Valley State University and M.A. from Central Michigan University, where her volunteer and clinical experiences spanned a variety of settings, therapy models, and evaluation/treatment options. While she has enjoyed all settings and caseloads, Megan’s interests are in pediatric motor speech disorders, augmentative and alternative communication, fluency, speech-sound disorders, and dysphagia. She strives to help patients and their families make meaningful and sustainable progress toward their goals and is looking forward to being a part of the intensive therapy model at NAPA Center! In her free time, Megan enjoys cycling, rock climbing, pickleball, and exploring new areas in California. Kristen Springer Physical Therapist Kristen Springer Physical Therapist Originally from northern New Jersey, Kristen attended the University of Virginia for undergrad and earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy from Duke University. She developed an interest in working with children at a young age, volunteering at a summer camp for individuals with disabilities for many summers growing up. Throughout her pediatric clinical rotations, Kristen further developed her passions for helping kids achieve their goals, discover joyful forms of movement, and navigate their ever-changing environments. She also utilizes a weight-inclusive approach to healthcare. When she is not in the clinic, you can find Kristen reading, running, crocheting, or playing the flute in local ensembles. Kristen is excited to explore all that Denver has to offer and be a part of the NAPA team! Dianne Chin Occupational Therapist Dianne Chin Occupational Therapist Dianne is a passionate and fun-loving occupational therapist who believes in the importance of forming supportive relationships with families and achieving goals through strengths. Inspired by growth, adventure, and learning from people of all walks of life, Dianne decided to move Hong Kong after graduating from her OT degree. There she began her OT career at a large early intervention organisation, and completed a Masters degree to further her knowledge in the world of rehabilitation for children with developmental disabilities. She loves being a paediatric OT as she is able to keep learning, be creative, and help children and their families feel empowered – which led her to NAPA. Having missed family, Red Rock Deli chips, road trips and the infectious Aussie friendliness, Dianne decided to move back to home to Sydney. In her spare time Dianne can also be found exploring different restaurants, creative activities and the occasional attempt to get fit. Isabel Collis Speech Language Pathologist Isabel Collis Speech Language Pathologist MA Speech Pathology, University of Canberra Isabel’s journey into speech pathology was inspired by her work in the disability arts sector and postgraduate studies. Before earning her MA in Speech Pathology, Isabel assisted artists with disabilities and completed a post graduate certificate in Disability and Inclusion. Her post graduate studies highlighted the importance of communication as a way to support access and inclusion for all, leading her to pursue a career in speech pathology. At NAPA, Isabel treasures the collaborative environment of the multidisciplinary team and values the opportunity to work with families. Isabel continues to engage with art as a hobby and particularly enjoys theatre, film and photography. Rachel Yang PT Assistant Manager Rachel Yang PT Assistant Manager Rachel’s passion for working with children grew through past experiences nannying children with various abilities and working at a camp for children and adults with disabilities. Seeing children discover new ways to move and celebrate their abilities at NAPA Center brings her great joy! When she’s not at NAPA, she enjoys playing ultimate frisbee, finding new hiking spots in and around Austin, and sharing meals with friends and family. Eabha Barry Occupational Therapist Eabha Barry Occupational Therapist Bio coming soon! Yvonne Lam Physiotherapist Yvonne Lam Physiotherapist Bachelor of Physiotherapy, University of Sydney Yvonne grew up in Hong Kong and moved to Sydney to study physiotherapy, intrigued by the idea of using movement and therapy to help others get better. She’s always loved being around children and when she went on some paediatric placements during university, she realised that paediatrics was for her. She loves the complexity and the diversity of this field and enjoys working closely with families to help children reach their goals. After graduating university, she worked at a paediatrics clinic before making her move to NAPA. Outside of work, Yvonne loves sketching and watercolour painting, meeting up with friends, playing badminton and discovering new sights to see while soaking up the sun. Rhiannon Underhill Speech Language Pathologist Rhiannon Underhill Speech Language Pathologist Rhiannon is a passionate and fun-loving speech pathologist, who is driven to support children with complex communication needs to live active and meaningful lives. Through volunteering for disability organisations, she fell in love with the paediatric disability community and knew that she had chosen the right career path. Since graduating Rhiannon has continued to build her skills in supporting children with complex communication needs and has developed a special interest in Augmentative and Alternative Communication. She is continuously inspired by the determination and resilience of the children and families she works with and is grateful to be a part of their therapy journey. Outside of work, she can be found attending creative (and unusual) workshops, on her hunt to find a hobby. Some of her favourite workshops have been blacksmithing, pottery and earring making. Lauren Kallmeyer Occupational Therapist Lauren Kallmeyer Occupational Therapist Lauren attended Australian Catholic University where she completed her Bachelor of Occupational Therapy. While in High School Lauren discovered her love and passion for working and surrounding herself with children, which led her to studying Occupational Therapy. Throughout university Lauren volunteered at over night and day camps for children with disabilities and worked as a support worker where she further developed her passion. Lauren is committed to working alongside other therapists and families to help children reach their goals in a fun environment. When she is not at work Lauren loves being outdoors especially at the beach and hanging out with her friends. Kim Wedekind Patient Coordinator Kim Wedekind Patient Coordinator Kim grew up in the Boston area and has remained in the area ever since. Though her major in college was retail management, she pursued administrative work in healthcare after having a family. She first started in adult internal medicine and then moved to a pediatric OT and Speech setting where she found she enjoyed the most. She loves working with children and their families, assisting with scheduling and the multi facet nuances of administrative tasks and most of all seeing the great gains they make through therapy. When she’s not at NAPA she enjoys interior decorating, painting, yoga, rides in her convertible and long walks. Megan Moore Clinic Aide Megan Moore Clinic Aide Megan is a Louisiana native who’s education has brought her multiple places, now most recently to Austin, TX in 2023. She recently just finished her first year in the Flex Program for her DPT at the University of St. Augustine. Prior to moving, Megan took a gap year following her undergrad graduation in Dec. 2021 in Tampa, Fl. During that year, she worked as a rehab aide at the main campus outpatient clinic for Johns Hopkins All Children’s. Through the observations of the specialty programs and patients she encountered there, she found her passion for pediatrics and solidified her choice in career. After completing the first year of her program, Megan’s passions remained the same and fueled the search for a similar opportunity to further enrich her knowledge and experiences. Erin (Frannie) Corrigan Occupational Therapist Erin (Frannie) Corrigan Occupational Therapist Bio coming soon! Julie Bull Speech Language Pathologist Julie Bull Speech Language Pathologist Julie earned both her undergraduate and graduate degrees at the University of Texas at Austin, where she received a training grant specializing in working with children with high support needs. She discovered her passion for speech-language pathology during her time as a summer camp counselor, where she spent many summers adapting activities for campers with a wide range of disabilities. Working as a caregiver for a child with medical complexities (Hi Teddy!), ignited her passion for supporting children with complex communication needs and he continues to be her drive her every day. During her graduate program, Julie completed an internship at NAPA Center Austin and immediately knew it was the place for her. She has a special interest in Augmentative and Alternative Communication and loves finding innovative ways to support communication in all its forms. When she’s not at NAPA, you can find her walking the Town Lake Trail, trying out new restaurants, or spending time with friends! Kate Alexander Physiotherapist Kate Alexander Physiotherapist Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Class I Honours) 2022, The University of Queensland Hailing from Brisbane, Kate recently relocated to Sydney to work at NAPA Centre. With a background in dance, Kate has always been passionate about finding joy in movement and helping others to do the same. Having worked with children as an assistant dance teacher, school tutor, and support worker during her studies, Kate knows that a little bit of fun and laughter is the key to getting the job done. After seeing the benefits of intensive therapy firsthand, Kate is keen to help make a difference in the lives of NAPA kids and their families. Outside of NAPA, you might find Kate taking a dance class, relaxing at the beach, or working on her Bakery Bucket List. Melissa Suarez Early Intervention Assistant Melissa Suarez Early Intervention Assistant Melissa an Early Education Assistant with a strong passion for helping young children grow, learn, and thrive. With hands-on experience working with kids in classroom and childcare settings, she brings patience, creativity, and a nurturing spirit to everything she do. Whether it’s guiding little ones through their ABCs or supporting social and emotional development. Outside the classroom, she enjoy painting, reading, hiking, music which often inspire fun and engaging activities she brings into the classroom. Her goal is to help create a positive, inclusive, and joyful learning environment where every child feels seen, supported, and encouraged to be their unique self. Elizabeth Lopez Lead Early Intervention Teacher Elizabeth Lopez Lead Early Intervention Teacher BA Child Development and Family Studies, CSULB & AA Early Childhood Education West LA College Elizabeth began working with children in 2016 while working on her AA degree. Her education has given her the tools necessary to create relationships with families and provide the best environment possible to the children she works with. Initially interested in kindergarten and early elementary, she has also gained experience working with infants and toddlers. Before coming to NAPA, Elizabeth has worked in ABA therapy, school programs, and child care centers. Through her experiences, she has been inspired to continue building the social emotional connection with children and families through her work. When she is not having fun in the center, Elizabeth enjoys being around friends and family. Hiking and being in nature are always welcome activities, as well as shopping for books and art materials for the next craft. During any downtime, Elizabeth loves to relax with her dog, Bella, while watching her favorite TV shows, such as The Office. Erika Price Speech Language Pathologist Erika Price Speech Language Pathologist MS Communication Sciences and Disorders, University of Vermont Erika chose to pursue speech language pathology after an inspiring pitch from a professor in an undergraduate course entitled, “Major Decisions.” Since then, she has developed a passion and enthusiasm for working with children to help them achieve their highest potential. Erika has widespread evaluation and treatment experience with children of all ages, including childhood apraxia of speech, expressive and receptive language, speech sound disorders, fluency, pragmatics and social skills, and feeding and swallowing. She enjoys the fun, challenge, and diversity that comes with working with children, and she strives to create a constructive and trusting relationship with her clients and their families. She is committed to creating engaging, functional, and innovative treatment activities to best address each client’s unique goals and promote success in and out of therapy. Outside of work, Erika enjoys long walks with her dog, Lucy, going to the gym, and exploring the local food scene. Ashana Patale Physiotherapist Ashana Patale Physiotherapist Masters of Physiotherapy, University of Sydney Ashana’s passion for pediatric physiotherapy stems from her personal experience as a premature twin, fueling her interest in developmental delays and early intervention. She has gained diverse clinical experience across musculoskeletal, neurological, cardiopulmonary, and aged care rehabilitation settings in private practices as well as hospitals. With a keen interest in research and evidence-based practice, she is always looking to expand her knowledge and skills with the best research backed treatment approaches. Beyond physiotherapy, she enjoys swimming, hiking and reading, especially law thrillers or fiction and petting animals. Music, especially Bollywood, is a big part of her life and you’ll usually find her with her earphones in. A huge animal lover, she has absolutely no inhibitions when it comes to them. Having recently moved to Melbourne, she is eager to explore the city and its opportunities. Rebecca Clarke Speech Language Pathologist Rebecca Clarke Speech Language Pathologist Bec is a dedicated Speech Pathologist, passionate about empowering children to communicate effectively and confidently. With a background in disability support work and childcare, she has developed a keen interest in early language development and augmentative communication. Bec believes in the power of collaboration with families to create tailored approaches that meet each child’s unique needs. When Bec is not at NAPA, you might find her exploring the outdoors with her dogs, going for a long run, or getting lost in a good book. Sita Agterberg Physical Therapist Sita Agterberg Physical Therapist Sita Agterberg grew up in Milwaukee Wisconsin and graduated with her Doctor of Physical Therapy from UW- Milwaukee before moving to Boston. Since her first year of physical therapy school, Sita knew that she wanted to work in pediatrics, and she sought out every opportunity to do so both in and out of school. Sita has experience working in both the school and outpatient settings with a wide range of diagnoses, including cerebral palsy, hypotonia, Down Syndrome, and rare genetic disorders. Outside of work, you can find Sita tandem cycling with her fiance, running, and baking bread. Denielle Plara Speech Language Pathologist Denielle Plara Speech Language Pathologist Master of Speech Language Pathology, University of Sydney During her studies, Denielle has been working as a disability support worker to clients of all ages but has grown to love working alongside younger children and their families. As she continues to work as a Speech Pathologist, she remains driven in helping children reach their goals so that they can get the most out of life. Denielle’s experience working with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Global Developmental Delay, Intellectual Delays has led to interests in Alternative Augmentative Communication, social/pragmatic language skills and early language development. Understanding the nature of communication, Denielle prioritises working collaboratively with families to best support them in achieving their goals. In her spare time, Denielle loves to get active, go hiking or cook new foods. She considers herself a lifelong learner and loves to learn from and share her skills with the people she meets! Lisa Levine Physical Therapist Lisa Levine Physical Therapist Lisa’s first exposure to physical therapy was back in high school, when she watched a documentary about a beauty pageant for kids with disabilities. This movie gave just a glimpse of the rewards and challenges throughout their rehabilitation journey, and Lisa knew she wanted to be a part of it. She then attended University of Delaware where she was studying exercise science, disability studies, and dance/creative movement therapies (which is reflected in her clinical style today)! After graduation, she moved up to Boston where she received her doctorate in physical therapy at Boston University. Fun fact is that she was once a clinical student at the NAPA center, and she is excited to continue treating this community of wonderful kids and families. She is energetic, creative, and loves to make kids laugh and feel more confident in their abilities. In her free time, you can find her trying out a new recipe, going on a day hike, playing tennis, or seeing live music! Mikaela Eppard Speech Therapy Manager Mikaela Eppard Speech Therapy Manager Mikaela graduated from Elmhurst University with her Bachelor’s degree in 2018 and her Master’s degree in 2020. A fun fact about Mikaela is she was a collegiate athlete while pursuing her degrees. Mikaela is a Denver native and has always had a passion for working with kids and knew she wanted to be a speech therapist since her freshman year in high school. Mikaela is excited to be back in the Denver area to be close to her family and friends. On the weekends she enjoys spending time with her friends and family, hiking, exploring new places to eat, and skiing in the winter. Sarah Healy Occupational Therapist Sarah Healy Occupational Therapist BSc Occupational Therapy Sarah chose the field of Occupational Therapy due to her love of helping other people. She worked for 3 years as an OT in Ireland before exploring opportunities to work in Australia in 2020. Sarah then worked for 4 years in the community in Sydney, supporting children with disabilities to better access their local community groups and participate better in home/school environments. Sarah’s biggest passion is supporting engagement and regulation with her clients and she has extensive training in the DIR Floortime Model. She joined the Sydney NAPA team in 2023 with the aim of continuing her learning in paediatric practice. When Sarah is not at work, she enjoys outdoor pursuits such as hiking, running, gym and spending time with her friends. She is friendly and approachable and always happy to help others. Nikita Tuite Therapy Aide Nikita Tuite Therapy Aide Nikita is currently on the path to completing her Bachelor of Speech and Hearing Sciences and Bachelor of Psychology at Macquarie University. Introduced to NAPA during a university placement, Nikita’s journey with the clinic has been nothing short of transformative, solidifying her commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of children. With years of experience as a disability support worker, she has always had a passion for helping individuals gain independence and achieve their goals. Beyond her academic and professional pursuits, Nikita embraces life’s adventures! An ideal day for Nikita is setting out for a day hike to explore the mountains in search of breathtaking waterfalls and scenic views. Fuelling her social side, Nikita cherishes the simple joys of grabbing a coffee with a friend and building meaningful connections. As the day winds down, you’ll often find Nikita curled up in a cozy blanket reading a good book, accompanied by a comforting cup of tea. Destiny Cyrs Patient Coordinator Destiny Cyrs Patient Coordinator Destiny has always had a heart for caring for children and believes they are one of life’s greatest blessings. Her passion for working with kids began early when she took her first job at a daycare while still in high school. Guided by her faith, Destiny finds joy and purpose in serving children and their families with ultimately compassion and patience. When she is not busy at NAPA, Destiny serves as a youth leader in the children’s ministry at her church where she teaches and guides young hearts to handle the difficult seasons of life as they grow. She went on to graduate with her Associate’s degree from Long Beach City College and later earned her Bachelor’s degree in kinesiology from California State University of Fullerton. She is passionate about using her knowledge to make a lasting impact in children’s lives and hopes to one day become a Doctor of Physical Therapy specializing in pediatrics. Her current goal is to continue combining her love for children, her background in kinesiology, and her faith-driven desire to be a light that serve others in a way that brings hope, healing, and restoration to families around the world. Tori Stewart General Manager, NAPA Charlotte Tori Stewart General Manager, NAPA Charlotte As the General Manager of NAPA Charlotte, Tori has a background of six years in the nonprofit sector supporting individuals with disabilities, as well as experience as a pediatric nurse aide. She is dedicated to creating a supportive, caring environment where children and families feel welcomed and valued and is especially excited to help bring the new Charlotte clinic to life!Originally from Northern Virginia, Tori played and later coached collegiate volleyball while earning her B.S. in Business Administration and MBA in Entrepreneurial Leadership. Outside of work, she enjoys making the most of the Carolinas—whether at the beach, in the mountains, attending sporting events, traveling with her soon-to-be husband, or staying active with their boxer, Bruno. Ashley Baker Physical Therapist Ashley Baker Physical Therapist Ashley has always had a passion for working with children. Her favorite part about being a pediatric PT is the look on a kids face when they learn a new skill! Ashley is a CO native and grew up in Grand Junction. She studied biology at the University of Denver and received her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. Prior to NAPA, Ashley worked in early intervention and at a pediatric outpatient clinic in Denver. In her free time, Ashley enjoys skiing, hiking, mountain biking, reading, and playing with her puppy! Ajeta Feratovic Administration Coordinator Ajeta Feratovic Administration Coordinator Ajeta began her journey with NAPA as an enthusiastic and dedicated Therapy Aide and now thrives in her role as an Admin Coordinator. She moved to Sydney from Germany in October 2020, having completed her certification in Occupational Therapy in Berlin. Ajeta has a passion for working with children and finds great joy in watching them succeed in reaching their individual goals. When Ajeta is not working, you can find her making art with mosaic stones, creating flower embroidery patterns, rewatching The Lord of the Rings (extended version, of course!), hiking or exploring Sydney with her husband in a never-ending quest for the city’s most magical cup of coffee. Laura Hua Speech Language Pathologist Laura Hua Speech Language Pathologist Bachelor of Applied Science (Speech Pathology), The University of Sydney Laura always knew she wanted to help others, and this sparked her journey into Speech Pathology. She grew up with a large family by her side and has always been considered the ‘mum’ of the group. Her love for paediatrics and disability came from her family as her two younger cousins were diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) as she finished her degree. Laura’s passion to support her relatives started her career in early intervention and supporting children and young adolescents with a diagnosis of ASD. She joins NAPA with a passion to learn more about the field of disability and to support families to be their child’s best teacher (wearing leggings and crazy socks was a bonus!). Laura is practicing as a Certified Speech Pathologist (CPSP) and certified Hanen therapist who holds great importance in building capacity within families. She has a keen interest with Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), social skills, sensory and emotional regulation, and Positive Behaviour Support. Laura is a big animal lover and will always be talking about her pets! She is most active when the sun is out and will explore the outdoors, go on walks and hikes, be at the beach but when the cold and rain hit, Laura will hibernate! Sophia Saleh Clinic Aide Sophia Saleh Clinic Aide Sophia Saleh graduated from Colby College in 2025 with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and is preparing to pursue a doctorate in Occupational Therapy. She has always loved working with children and discovered her passion for OT while interning at a pediatric clinic, where she supported children in a constraint-induced movement therapy camp and assisted in sessions with children with developmental delays. Those experiences confirmed for her that helping kids build independence and joy through movement and play is the path she wants to follow. At NAPA, Sophia is excited to keep learning and supporting children and their families in creative ways. Outside of the clinic, she loves singing with her band, writing music, and playing soccer. Lauren Kemerling Speech Language Pathologist Lauren Kemerling Speech Language Pathologist Lauren fell in love with supporting pediatric clients with complex communication needs as a student at our Austin clinic. She is excited to be back joining our team in Chicago! Lauren’s favorite part of being a pediatric SLP is getting to play! She loves to find creative ways to get kids engaged and communicating and has developed a special interest in AAC. Lauren is passionate about collaborating with families to find communication and feeding solutions that will work best for each child and family’s individual needs. Outside of NAPA, Lauren loves to walk the lakefront trail, try new restaurants in Chicago, and listen to podcasts to stay up to date on all things speech and feeding! Cherelle Fielding Occupational Therapist Cherelle Fielding Occupational Therapist Masters of Occupational Therapy Cherelle chose the field of OT after trying out both education and social services roles as a student of Psychology. After a few years experience she realized she wanted to be hands on in making a difference to individual children not with a whole classroom or behind a computer. Cherelle is full to the brim with love for the world of disability and positivity, and absolutely loves helping kids feel the same. Cherelle’s special interests areas are DMI, early intervention and sensory play. You always know if Cherelle has been doing messy play! When not working you will find Cherelle clinging to the side of a cliff in the mountains, camping or competing in bouldering competitions Chelsea Heritage Occupational Therapist Chelsea Heritage Occupational Therapist CBD College Los Angeles, CA Chelsea is a Los Angeles native who loves the outdoors making her the intensive family guru for fun weekend ideas. Her passion for working with kids and making an impact in families’ lives drives her smile every day at NAPA. Being a kid at heart, Chelsea, not only knows how to be the silliest therapist but also the biggest cheerleader. The growth she gets to be a part of, in her patients and their families, is what she describes as “one of the best feelings in the world.” Ana Milanese Occupational Therapist Ana Milanese Occupational Therapist Ana was originally born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and made the move to Texas with her family in 2005. Ana found her passion for both Occupational Therapy and pediatrics while volunteering at a hippotherapy ranch. Following her Bachelors in Psychology and Minor in Neuroscience from Texas A&M University, Ana attended Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center for her Masters in Occupational Therapy. Ana loves working alongside families to improve and support their day to day quality of life, and utilizing her creativity to help children gain independence. In her free time, Ana enjoys creating art, trying out new recipes, and hiking with her two dogs (Juno and Pax). Tamara Sharman Occupational Therapist Tamara Sharman Occupational Therapist Undergraduate of Exercise Science and Sport / Masters of Occupational Therapy Tamara is an energetic and motivated OT who became passionate about helping children with disabilities after watching her gymnastics coach run an adaptive gym program for kids with down syndrome. Seeing kids empowered and engaged was what drove her to become an occupational therapist. Tamara has previous experience working in the community sector as a paediatric OT, working mainly with children with autism spectrum disorder and developmental delays. When Tamara isn’t at work, she can be found down the beach with a coffee in hand or finding somewhere new to explore. Mattea Howard Administration Manager Mattea Howard Administration Manager Mattea is a people person, who finds joy in every season and situation, has a great sense of humour and loves wholeheartedly. In the past, Mattea has extensive experience in medical admin roles, while recently working in Event Management doing huge events all over QLD such as the NRL Magic Round, Lord Mayor’s Christmas Carols, weddings and corporate events. She has spent many years traveling the world, with some of her favourite places being Canada, America and NZ, shortly she will be able to add Italy to the list. Mattea has been part of the NAPA community since 2016, as her younger sister has attended more than 15 intensives in Sydney. She has seen our organisation grow into everything it is today, and has loved the community and values NAPA holds. Mattea cannot wait to meet each and every child and family that comes through the NAPA doors. She promises that you will be greeted with a huge smile and warmth! When not working, you will find Mattea enjoying the beach with her friends, watching the Broncos win, spending time with family or indulging in a cheeseboard! Jade Carnall Physiotherapist Jade Carnall Physiotherapist University of Queensland- Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Hons) 2020 Jade is a physiotherapist from Brisbane who has always been passionate about helping children achieve their goals. While in high school Jade discovered her love for working with children through assisting teaching dance. Her passion for paediatrics was reinforced in one of her final year university placements. Since graduating, Jade has worked within the paediatric community sector and has gained so much satisfaction from watching children surpass expectations and achieve their goals. Jade is very excited to continue this journey at NAPA! Jade grew up on Bribie Island in sunny Queensland. She is the youngest of three and has two older sisters. In her spare time Jade can be found exercising in the gym, exploring the outdoors or spending time with family and friends. Emma Barnes Physical Therapist Emma Barnes Physical Therapist Emma grew up in North Carolina and earned her Bachelor’s degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She went on to complete her Doctorate of Physical Therapy at the University of North Florida. Emma began her career in a pediatric clinic in Arizona before relocating to Austin to be closer to family. Emma loves being part of the team at NAPA, where she has the opportunity to help kids build confidence in their abilities. She doesn’t think any milestone or achievement is too small to be celebrated and finds joy in sharing these moments with both the kids and their families. Outside of work, Emma enjoys hiking with her dog, traveling, and finding the best local coffee shops. Nicholas Covey Therapy Aide Nicholas Covey Therapy Aide Nick has had an extensive career in Customer Service but wanted to help people by more than just providing great service. After graduating from Southern Illinois University (BA in Music with a minor in psychology), Nick took on incorporating himself into the workforce gaining leadership, communication, and teamwork experience. For years, Nick searched for a more established career that fit his values. Nick’s compassion for kids and people, a strong desire to help, and devotion to being a lifelong learner have led him to the path of pediatric therapy. The opportunity to work with Napa will guide him in achieving his goal of being a PTA. Outside of work, Nick enjoys spending as much time with his family. Trips to the zoo or going to a nearby park is always an adventure worth taking. Nick’s favorite activities include physical fitness, music, meditation/self-reflection, always learning, and overall bettering himself for the years to come. Emma Comiskey Speech Therapy Manager Emma Comiskey Speech Therapy Manager Emma received her undergraduate degree in Speech Language and Hearing Sciences and Human Development and Family Studies at the University of Connecticut before earning her Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She has a clinical background working with children and families with complex communication profiles and diverse mental health considerations. She strives to make speech and language therapy and feeding therapy a comfortable environment to nurture skill growth and have fun! She is so excited to be a part of the NAPA team and continue to pursue her passion for working with the pediatric population! Born and raised in New England, Emma loves to hike, adventure outside, and spend time at the beaches on Cape Cod, when not at the clinic. Ashlee Fields Occupational Therapist Ashlee Fields Occupational Therapist Ashlee has always had a passion for helping others, making others feel loved and accepted, and doing whatever she can to improve someone’s quality of life. Ashlee is a board certified Occupational Therapist through the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy and through the Executive Council of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Examiners. Ashlee is also a Certified Neuro Specialist through the Neuro Specialist Institute. She is a proud graduate with honors from Belmont University where she obtained her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy. She has had multiple family members require Occupational Therapy services for a variety of reasons ranging from her cousin with Down Syndrome to her uncle having a stroke. Her absolute top special interests are Pediatrics and Neurological conditions! Ashlee particularly loves that NAPA combines her two favorite interests while being able to provide exceptional therapy services with the latest evidenced based interventions, techniques, modalities, and equipment to help her sweet kiddos optimally reach their goals to the best of their abilities. She strives to treat all of her patients like she would want her loved ones treated. Ashlee has experience in outpatient pediatrics, home health pediatrics, inpatient rehabilitation, acute care, and adult home health. Her favorite places to visit are anything tropical! When Ashlee isn’t at work, she could be found exploring trails with her husband and two doodles, painting, spending time with friends, or visiting her family in East Texas! Baylee Hoecker Physiotherapist Baylee Hoecker Physiotherapist Baylee is a physical therapist who received her Bachelor’s in Biology from Illinois Wesleyan and her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Bradley University in 2020. She spent two years working in early intervention and the school system and is excited to start at NAPA and learn about a new setting and environment. She loves pediatrics because it brings her joy to watch kids achieve goals and surpass expectations. She especially enjoys getting to know families and helping kids work toward goals that make them more functional in their family’s day to day life. Outside of work, Baylee enjoys hanging out with her yellow Labrador, Hank, reading all kinds of books, and spending time at the beach on Lake Michigan. Davis Bray Occupational Therapist Davis Bray Occupational Therapist Davis’s interest in pursuing a career in the health industry stemmed from the supportive and passionate paediatric physiotherapist who worked with him for much of his childhood. During his studies in occupational therapy, Davis had opportunities to work with children and their families during his placements and knew that this was what he was most passionate about. Davis loves working in paediatrics because of the opportunities to help individuals achieve their goals, the fun and exciting nature of therapy, and how rewarding it is for all involved. In his free time, Davis enjoys playing soccer, going to the gym, and watching sports of all kinds! Sophie Greenhalgh Administration Manager Sophie Greenhalgh Administration Manager Sophie is a detailed oriented person who loves working as part of an interdisciplinary team. Struggling to choose a career path post-covid, Sophie started at NAPA as Administration Coordinator, thinking she would continue her studies to become a physiotherapist. However, she fell in love with the administration role and the joy it brings to see kids smashing their goals and moved in the Administration Manager role in 2025. Outside of NAPA, Sophie loves solo travel, cuddling with her dogs on the couch and volunteering at her local netball club. She has volunteered at her local netball club as umpire’s convenor since 2019 and loves to coach and mentor the club’s junior umpires on the weekends. She is a passionate netball umpire, with over 15 years’ experience umpiring at Netball NSW competitions since 2020. Ashley Bedard Occupational Therapist Ashley Bedard Occupational Therapist Ashley has been passionate about working with children for as long as she can remember. Her early experiences caring for kids sparked a lifelong interest in helping others and ultimately led her to discover the field of occupational therapy. Originally from Connecticut, Ashley moved to Boston to attend the University of Massachusetts Boston, where she earned her undergraduate degree in Psychology. She went on to complete her Master’s in Occupational Therapy at Regis College, gaining valuable experience in a variety of pediatric settings, including her fieldwork at NAPA! Outside of work, Ashley enjoys running, baking bread, reading on her Kindle, and exploring the city with her golden doodle Ryder. Tabitha Cauchy Speech Language Pathologist Tabitha Cauchy Speech Language Pathologist Bachelor of Speech Pathology from Australian Catholic University, Graduate Certificate in Autism Studies from Griffith University. Tabitha has had a passion for working with physical and developmental disabilities since becoming a swim teacher specialising in additional needs during high school. Since becoming a Speech Pathologist, she has always worked with children and feels so lucky to be part of a child’s journeys as they develop their ability to communicate in their own way. She has worked in private practice, non-for-profit sector and specialist schools in both Melbourne and London. Gaining experience in a broad range of clinical areas especially with AAC, alternative access, neuro-affirming therapy approaches and regulation. She feels that the key to successful therapy and progress is a strong, understanding, and open relationship with caregivers. Tabitha strives to put her client’s needs first and ensures all of her sessions are fun, child-led and meet their individual differences. When not at work she enjoys spending time with her friends and family by the beach or inside of Melbourne’s yummy restaurants. Otherwise, you’ll find her travelling and exploring new places, going to music gigs or tucked up on the couch with a good reality TV series. Doha Ragheb Physical Therapist Doha Ragheb Physical Therapist Doha, an individual deeply passionate about pediatric physical therapy, has dedicated herself to working with children from a young age. Since the age of 16, she has actively engaged in charitable organizations, committing much of her time to the development of children’s well-being. Her dedication extends beyond physical health, encompassing all aspects of a child’s life. Graduating from Cairo University with a bachelor’s degree, she has pursued certification in various pediatric fields including suit therapy, CME, aquatherapy, safe and sound protocol, PSSE, ISWP, and others. For Doha, working with children is more than just a profession; it is a way of life. She believes that every child deserves to live a happy and independent life to the fullest extent possible. Doha sees NAPA as a crucial platform to further her dream of positively impacting the lives of children worldwide, striving to empower them to reach their fullest potential. When she is not at NAPA, she enjoys discovering new places to visit, reading books, and taking photos of nature. Marc Moreno-Takegami Physical Therapist, Equipment Coordinator Marc Moreno-Takegami Physical Therapist, Equipment Coordinator Doctor of Physical Therapy, Duke University Marc was inspired by his mother, a special education teacher, to start working with kids when he would help her out in her classroom in high school. After graduating from Loyola Marymount University, Marc joined the Peace Corps where he worked primarily in a community health capacity to improve childhood nutrition practices in Peru. During his clinical rotation at NAPA in his last year of physical therapy school, Marc was routinely inspired by the dedication and creativity of his clinical instructors and all of the physical, occupational, and speech therapists he had the opportunity to work alongside and by the end, fell in love with the families and mission of NAPA. Madeline Giardina Occupational Therapist Madeline Giardina Occupational Therapist Bachelors degree of Occupational Therapy (Australian Catholic University) Madeline is passionate about connecting children and families with the resources and tools to empower and support those living with disabilities to meet their goals and have a positive impact on their life. She enjoys getting creative with children and finding unique ways to individualise therapy. Madeline is inspired by being in a profession where she can enable independence and allow children to engage in the tasks they find meaningful. In her spare time, Madeline loves any chance to get out in nature whether it’s riding her bike or going for an ocean swim and spending time with family and friends. Before working at NAPA Madeline worked as an Occupational Therapy assistant at a paediatric clinic. Madeline has experience in delivering small group programs to support children with social skills, communication and play. Serena Patel Physical Therapist, Fieldwork Coordinator Serena Patel Physical Therapist, Fieldwork Coordinator With a deep passion for movement and helping children reach their full potential, Serena is a dedicated pediatric physical therapist at NAPA Center Los Angeles. She earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from Duke University, where she built a strong foundation in evidence-based, compassionate care. Her journey into physical therapy was inspired by a lifelong love of dance, which shaped her appreciation for the human body and sparked a desire to help others move with confidence and joy. Early on, Serena knew she wanted to work with children, drawn to their energy, resilience, and the opportunity to make a lasting impact during development. She finds fulfillment in building strong connections with each child and family she works with, and celebrates every milestone—big or small—as a step towards greater independence and empowerment. Outside the clinic, you’ll likely find her baking sweet treats, exploring hiking trails, getting lost in a good book, or spending quality time with her loved ones. Tara Arvidson Physical Therapy Assistant Manager Tara Arvidson Physical Therapy Assistant Manager Tara developed a passion for physical therapy specializing in pediatrics volunteering at a local hippotherapy therapeutic riding organization in high school. Since then, she has achieved this goal as a physical therapist and continues this passion by treating children of all ages and needs. Tara strongly believes bonding with families and collaborating with other disciplines is an integral part of the entire treatment process and strives for this in her daily practice. Tara enjoys making therapy a fun place with silly faces and showing off everyone’s best dance moves! Outside of NAPA, Tara can be found hanging out with her dog and friends, binge-watching reality T.V., or alternating between a puzzle and a good book. She loves traveling by car, plane, or boat and would love any recommendations near or afar! Iliana Smiser Physical Therapist Iliana Smiser Physical Therapist Iliana grew up around physical therapy, but wasn’t exposed to pediatric physical therapy until her junior year at Augustana College. When starting her Doctorate of Physical Therapy at Bradley University, she had intended to go down the orthopedic route and work with athletes. However, she quickly found her passion treating the pediatric population, thanks to one little boy with cerebral palsy. This experience sent her down the road of multiple pediatric clinical rotations and now, NAPA Center Chicago. Her favorite thing about working with this special population is being able to celebrate the little wins with her patients and their families. She knows that sometimes those little wins can make the biggest difference. Outside of the clinic, you can find Iliana in the gym, reading, watching Disney movies, or hanging out with her family and friends. Kristin Klerekoper Physical Therapist Kristin Klerekoper Physical Therapist Bio coming soon! Tate Strack Speech Language Pathologist Tate Strack Speech Language Pathologist M.A., CCC-SLP, Speech Language Pathology, University of Connecticut Tate has spent her time in Texas continuing to learn and explore her passion for pediatric speech therapy. Excited to be back in the northeast, Tate is passionate about building relationships with her patients and families. She believes in creating treatment plans that are individualized to each patient to ensure the most success in reaching communication and feeding goals. Devoted to helping children in the areas of pediatric dysphagia, selective and restricted diets, speech and language delays, and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), her energetic and positive energy creates a welcoming and fun environment. Tate has a love for exercising, soaking up the sunshine on the beach, and exploring new cities! Jonty Beavan Physiotherapist Jonty Beavan Physiotherapist Bachelor of Physiotherapy, University of Canberra Growing up Jonty always knew he was going to find a job helping others and when the time came, he chose physiotherapy since he thought it would be better than sitting at a desk all day. Little did he know this would lead him to paediatrics. During his later high school years Jonty started volunteering at disability camps, on the whim of some of his family and friends. Realising the joy and positivity that could be spread because of the interactions with these kids and their carers, he quickly developed a passion for working in paediatrics. This was only confirmed through his placement at the Sydney Children’s hospital, as he realized that this was something he could do for the rest of his life. When not at NAPA you can find Jonty helping out at his church, playing team sports such as volleyball, basketball, or soccer and also hosting board games nights for friends and family. He’s always happy for a chat or complicated hi fives if you can spot him! Eve Hall Physical Therapist Eve Hall Physical Therapist Eve graduated with a BSc in Physiotherapy from Cardiff University and has always known she wanted to work with children. During her university placements, she was able to develop her communication skills, realising just how much she loved paediatrics: it was the perfect way to combine her passion for working with kids with helping them build independence and confidence in everyday life. She loves the positivity children bring and enjoys supporting their progress through NAPA’s fun, intensive approach. At NAPA, Eve especially values the teamwork and variety of roles to learn from, whilst celebrating each milestone alongside children and their families. When Eve isn’t work, she enjoys running, Pilates, and the gym, or relaxing with a good book. She also loves spending time with her family and dogs back home in Ireland, and since moving to London, she’s been enjoying exploring the city and finding new coffee spots! Cara Fletcher Occupational Therapist Cara Fletcher Occupational Therapist Cara’s path to becoming an occupational therapist has always been guided by a deep personal connection. Growing up with a sister diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), she developed a strong desire to help children and families feel empowered, understood, and supported on their journeys. While completing her Bachelor of Occupational Therapy at Australian Catholic University, Cara worked at NAPA for two years as a Therapy Aide — an experience that shaped her clinical skills and confirmed her passion for the field. Captivated by NAPA’s energy, creativity, and strong sense of community, she knew she had found her professional home. In 2023, Cara officially joined NAPA as an Occupational Therapist. Recognised for the strong clinical skills, genuine connections, and commitment she demonstrated as a Therapy Aide, she was selected to be part of NAPA’s highly regarded New Graduate Program. Today, Cara brings empathy, enthusiasm, and heart to every session, drawing on both her personal and professional experiences to make a lasting impact. Outside the clinic, she loves planning her next travel adventure, chasing the sun, and enjoying great food with even better company. Tso-Hsien (Geoffrey) Chien Physiotherapist Tso-Hsien (Geoffrey) Chien Physiotherapist Doctorate of PT, Loma Linda University In 2012, Tso-Hsien (Geoffrey) received his Bachelor in Physiotherapy in Taiwan. He worked in a post-acute hospital as a physiotherapist for both geriatric and paediatric populations which then encouraged him to pursue higher education in the US. He attended Loma Linda University and received his Doctorate of Physiotherapy in 2017. Tso-Hsien grew up in Taiwan and has always enjoyed working with kids. After working two years in hospitals in Taiwan, he found there weren’t enough resources or techniques available in the paediatric rehab field, so he decided to travel to the US to gain more knowledge and training. He found out about NAPA Center and instantly fell in love with this big family and feels like it’s a one-stop shop of all contemporary therapies. When Tso-Hsien is not at work, he enjoys spending his time with his dog Gucci and his husband Wissanu. They love exploring different restaurants and never say no to good food, willing to travel to a different state just for a nice medium-rare steak. Kayla Chan Early Intervention Assistant Kayla Chan Early Intervention Assistant Kayla graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a minor in Child Development from California State University, Long Beach. Following graduation, she gained experience working with children aged 18 months to 12 years through various settings, ABA, early intervention programs, preschools, and social skills group. Her passion for working with children stems from a deep appreciation for their resiliency and growth. This passion led her to continue her education, and she is currently pursuing a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant program at Cerritos College. With a strong foundation in child development and a growing expertise in communication disorders, she is committed to supporting children’s developmental and communicative success. When Kayla is not at NAPA, you can find her spending time with her family, taking Pilates classes, and trying out new restaurants and coffee shops. Maddalena Scaletta Patient Coordinator Maddalena Scaletta Patient Coordinator Maddy holds a degree in Psychology with a minor in Social Work and is passionate about supporting children’s emotional and developmental growth. She finds purpose in helping young people build confidence and develop healthy coping skills. Maddy is especially drawn to working with children because of the lasting impact early guidance cam have on their futures. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, collecting vinyl records, and reading. Kayla Moran Speech Language Pathologist Kayla Moran Speech Language Pathologist This Southern California native found her passion for working with children while at NAPA as a student and was excited to join our amazing team! As a speech-language therapist, Kayla believes in the power of play to promote communication. She loves working with families and other multidisciplinary team members through collaboration to help children reach their goals. When not at NAPA, Kayla enjoys taking her dog to the beach, learning new skills (She is currently learning Spanish!), and curling up with a good book. Holly Knapp Physical Therapist - Lead Holly Knapp Physical Therapist - Lead Holly has always had a passion for pediatrics and working with children of all abilities. During her time in physical therapy school, Holly directed her passion towards founding a wheelchair seating and mobility clinic in Masindi, Uganda, and participating in pediatric research through the South Carolina LEND (Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities) program. These experiences allowed Holly to continue growing her passion for collaborating with patients, families, and peers in order to best support the individuals she serves. When Holly is not in the clinic, she can be found indulging in good Mexican food or exploring all that the outdoors have to offer. As a native of the Carolina coast, her favorite pastime involves hunting for shark teeth. However, she is excited about the opportunity to head west and see what Denver has to offer. Amelia Kan Physiotherapist Amelia Kan Physiotherapist Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours, First Class), Australia Catholic University Amelia is passionate about empowering families and children to be independent, confident and develop in their everyday life. She believes children learn best when they are having fun and working towards their goals. When Amelia began her studies in physiotherapy, she knew right away she wanted to work with children and their families, leading her to complete her honours project with children with neuromuscular disorders. She has experience in working with children and adults with disabilities in the community, and in hospital rehabilitation. When she’s not working, you can find Amelia enjoying the outdoors, catching up with friends, having a drop of good coffee and hanging out with her dog, Alfie. Sarah Torti Administration Coordinator Sarah Torti Administration Coordinator Bachelor of Communications, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia Sarah chose to go into a career in communications after growing up with a love for the written word. She enjoys finding a story and telling it. In a past life she has worked as a journalist, a media officer, in various communications officer roles, and more recently as a content specialist in the financial services industry. She spent many of her young adults years traveling, and kept her travels going by working as a camp counsellor in America, spent a ski season in Canada, and bumped around London and some of Europe for a time. What drew her to join the NAPA Brisbane team is her own lived experience as the mum of Roman, a young disabled child, and their experience navigating the world of therapy. With a few NAPA intensives under her family’s belt, she’s found the NAPA style and approach to therapy that suits their goals and hopes for Roman’s future. When she’s not at work, Sarah loves to tend to her garden, take on yet another DIY house project, spend time with her husband Dave and kids Isla and Roman, and their family dogs Minnie and Toby. She also admits she can’t live without coffee, loves to binge a good TV series, or set off for weekends away camping in the great outdoors. Krisanne Schaub Speech Language Pathologist Krisanne Schaub Speech Language Pathologist Bio coming soon! Cynthia Estrada Occupational Therapist Cynthia Estrada Occupational Therapist Cynthia received her Doctorate of Occupational Therapy from the University of Southern California and earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of California, Los Angeles. She has experience working with children in different settings including schools and clinics, and has always had a passion for supporting their growth and development. She first learned about occupational therapy when her father received OT services after being diagnosed with Guillain-Barre Syndrome. Witnessing his journey sparked her interest in the profession and further inspired her to help others. Cynthia prioritizes providing support for children and their families in reaching their goals and loves seeing the joy on their faces when they accomplish something meaningful. During her free time, Cynthia enjoys reading, pilates, and exploring new coffee shops. Shelby Albert Director of Human Resources Shelby Albert Director of Human Resources BA Sociology, University of Washington. Shelby has always wanted to make a difference and help others, and found her passion in Human Resources. She enjoys collaborating with colleagues on how to solve problems, improve processes to increase efficiency, and implement new initiatives to improve employee engagement and company culture. When Shelby is not working, she is spending time with her son Jack and their dog Ollie. Being from the Pacific Northwest, they can be found outside rain or shine, enjoying all that Seattle has to offer! Christine DiChiara Occupational Therapist Assistant Manager Christine DiChiara Occupational Therapist Assistant Manager Masters in Occupational Therapy, Temple University Christine has had a passion for working with children for many years. Growing up in a large family with a lot of children, she has been taking care of her younger cousins since a young age. She first learned about OT after her cousin had a stroke and saw the incredible impact the therapists had on her rehabilitation. Christine knew that OT would be the perfect career for being able to help others in the same way her cousin had been helped many years ago. Christine has worked in early intervention and outpatient rehabilitation, and she is certified in the SOS Approach to Feeding. Christine loves working with children because every day is fun and exciting and there is nothing better than seeing a patient master a new skill! In her free time, Christine enjoys spending time with her family and friends, working out, traveling, and going to the beach. Ashley Engelbert Physical Therapist Department Manager Ashley Engelbert Physical Therapist Department Manager Bio coming soon! Baylie Wilson Physical Therapist Baylie Wilson Physical Therapist Baylie has a love for helping children reach their personal functional goals as well as empowering caregivers through education to help their child reach new milestones. Baylie earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Missouri in 2021. Originally from Missouri, she moved to Florida to begin her career as a Pediatric Physical Therapist where she found her passion for intensive therapy. She has moved from the beaches to the mountains to join the NAPA family! She is certified in Dynamic Movement Intervention and the Intensive TheraSuit Method. Baylie enjoys being outdoors, photography, spending time with her pup, and most of all, traveling. You can always find her planning her next adventure! Kate Johnston Physical Therapy Manager Kate Johnston Physical Therapy Manager University of Notre Dame, Fremantle – Bachelor of Physiotherapy, 2016 Kate has always been passionate about supporting children, working as a nanny whilst she completed her physiotherapy degree. Her interest in the area further developed during a placement at a community paediatric therapy provider. Kate has experience working as a physiotherapist with children and their families across Perth, London, and Brisbane. Kate is motivated by working collaboratively with families and children to use their interests and strengths to pursue their goals in fun and exciting ways. Away from work, Kate enjoys the beach, camping, baking, and spending time with friends Kelanie Irvin Occupational Therapist Kelanie Irvin Occupational Therapist Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours), The University of Queensland Kelanie was always interested in pursuing a career in health and thought that Occupational Therapy would be the perfect fit! Kelanie has experience working across a variety of specialities but has always been passionate about neurological and paediatric Occupational Therapy. Kelanie loves to be creative and find ways to make therapy fun! Kelanie loves to see children learn new skills and reach their full potential! Outside of work, Kelanie enjoys volunteering for Radio Lollipop at the Queensland Children’s Hospital. Kelanie also loves playing hockey, going to the beach and spending time with her family and friends. Ester Sulkin Speech Language Pathologist Ester Sulkin Speech Language Pathologist Estee is a speech-language pathologist passionate about helping children with disabilities gain access to effective communication. After spending her summers growing up as a counselor in a sleepaway camp for individuals with disabilities, she knew she wanted a career focused on building relationships and creating support systems for children with complex needs. Estee earned her master’s in speechlanguage pathology from Rush University and practiced in the special education setting before joining NAPA. She is strongly committed to ongoing learning, specifically focusing on Augmentative and Alternative Communication, feeding, and inclusion. When Estee is not busy at work, she enjoys spending time with her family, especially her niece, reading, and traveling. Savannah Seipp Occupational Therapist Savannah Seipp Occupational Therapist Savannah was born and raised in Texas and has always had a deep passion for occupational therapy, inspired by the positive changes it brings to people’s lives. While pursuing her master’s degree at Abilene Christian University, she had the wonderful opportunity to intern at NAPA Center in Austin, Texas. This experience truly touched her heart, as she witnessed the impact the organization has on families and children within the community. The warmth and dedication she found there only deepened her commitment to this field, leading her to return to NAPA to make a difference. Outside of her work at NAPA, Savannah enjoys spending time outdoors, exploring new places, and spending moments with family and friends. Kati Maselli Physiotherapy Manager Kati Maselli Physiotherapy Manager Kati received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy degree from University of Pittsburgh. Originally from Ohio, she is a proud University of Dayton Flyer. Her special interest in childhood development and participation in adaptive physical activity and ski programs led her to a career in pediatrics. She has treated in outpatient, school, and early intervention settings in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Colorado. She is passionate about helping all patients explore and enjoy movement in a playful way as they build on the strengths that make them unique. She has experience in treating patients with a wide range of diagnoses including neuromuscular, developmental, orthopedic, and genetic disorders as well as torticollis. Katie finds so much joy in laughing with her patients while pushing them to work their hardest! New to Massachusetts, she is excited to explore anything involving the outdoors including skiing, hiking, and traveling with her fiancé and dog. She is always trying to become a better crafter and is on a mission to create the best stromboli. Meg Murphy Occupational Therapist Meg Murphy Occupational Therapist Meg earned her Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from Saint Louis University and has been practicing as a pediatric occupational therapist for nearly 3 years. Her passion for working with children began early in life, shaped by her family’s involvement in foster care. That foundation grew into a career calling, especially after volunteering in Kenya, where she worked with children with cerebral palsy, spina bifida, and other complex medical conditions. There she discovered the profound impact OT can have on quality of life. Meg is committed to supporting each child’s unique potential through compassionate, play based, and evidence-informed care. She strives to make her treatment team-based, involving not only the child, but also their family and friends in order to motivate and build on meaningful activities with those closest to them. Outside of work, Meg enjoys cooking, swimming, and exploring new areas of Charlotte with her husband and their dog, Charlie. Donna Cicchesi Physical Therapist Assistant Manager Donna Cicchesi Physical Therapist Assistant Manager Donna first discovered her love for working with children during her time teaching children’s dance and gymnastics classes. She received her undergraduate degree in Dance from Hofstra University before spending several years dancing professionally and teaching Pilates in NYC. Eventually she returned to graduate school and earned her Doctorate degree in Physical Therapy at SUNY Downstate in Brooklyn, New York. Donna, wanting to make the big cross-country move to California, came across NAPA’s website and knew right away that it was where she wanted to be. She is incredibly excited to be a part of NAPA’s team and feels so fortunate to be able to help kids reach their fullest potential. During her free time, she enjoys taking dance, yoga and trapeze classes and of course spending her time with her dog Riley. Carly Parker Clinic Aide Carly Parker Clinic Aide Carly feels very proud to be part of the London NAPA team. After working in childcare for nearly 30 years working in nursery environment she qualified as a nursery practitioner and progressed to be nursery manager. Her passion and dedication has always been to try a make a meaningful impact by providing care, encouragement and practical support which she will bring to NAPA London. Rachel Barrett Speech Language Pathologist Rachel Barrett Speech Language Pathologist Rachel graduated from Elon University with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with minors in Neuroscience and Early Childhood Education and MGH Institute of Health Professions with a Master of Science in Communication Science and Disorders. She has a clinical background in the treatment of pediatric speech, language, and feeding disorders in educational settings and pediatric outpatient clinics. Rachel is a Natural Language Acquisition (NLA) Trained Clinician and is committed to embrace neurodiversity and support complex communicators. She strives to collaborate with patients and their families to make meaningful and sustainable progress toward their goals and is excited to be a part of the intensive therapy model at NAPA Center! Her hobbies include baking for friends and family, taking an exercise class, traveling, reading, or taking a walk by the water. Katherine Moon Speech Language Pathologist Assistant Manager Katherine Moon Speech Language Pathologist Assistant Manager M.Ed. Speech-Language Pathology, Valdosta State University Katie is a Southern California native who loves all things outdoors. Her passion for speech-language pathology stems from the belief that every child deserves a voice. Katie’s clinical experience has been focused on the early intervention and school age population, working as a speech-language pathology assistant prior to completing her master’s degree. Her interests include Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC), early intervention, parent coaching, and feeding. Our kids love hanging out with Ms. Katie. One parent reported “my kid likes Katie more than me!” Georgia Berbert Occupational Therapy Manager Georgia Berbert Occupational Therapy Manager Georgia received her Masters of Science in Occupational Therapy from the Medical University of South Carolina. She, like most other pediatric therapists, has had a lifelong desire to work with children which began in first grade and continues to this day! Prior to NAPA, Georgia worked in early intervention, inpatient, and outpatient settings. She loves nothing more than helping a kiddo achieve something awesome. Hiking, climbing, skiing, boardgames, consuming large amounts of coffee, what doesn’t Georgia do? Spot her easily in her bright colors! Kaitlyn Fuller Physical Therapy Manager Kaitlyn Fuller Physical Therapy Manager Kaitlyn graduated with her Doctorate in 2013 from University of Vermont in Burlington, VT. Since graduating she moved back home to Syracuse, NY providing early intervention and preschool services to children in Central New York area. In addition, she provided physical therapy for the geriatric population at two local nursing homes. After spending life buried in snow, she’s decided to migrate to warmer weather in Austin, TX. She always knew that she wanted to work with children and she loves being active which drew her into the pediatric physical therapy field. Kaitlyn’s love for working with children has been highly influenced by both her parents who work as a special education teacher and a clinical children’s social worker. Kaitlyn particularly enjoys developing unique relationships with each of her patients and celebrating all the small and big wins along the way. When she’s not working you can find Kaitlyn at a spin/barre class, drinking coffee, or watching Syracuse basketball. Sidney Michaux Physical Therapist Sidney Michaux Physical Therapist Sidney graduated from University of Lynchburg with her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology prior to moving to Boston and receiving her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Boston University in 2022. She first discovered PT when her brother was diagnosed with a rare genetic condition, and entered into the world of pediatric intensive therapy, giving her a unique perspective as the sibling of a child attending PT. Sidney has experience working in a variety of settings including inpatient, outpatient, and school settings treating a wide range of diagnoses including cerebral palsy, genetic diagnoses, torticollis and developmental delays. She is consistently drawn to treating kids with complex medical and neurological impairments and learning about rare genetic diagnoses. She is passionate about providing family centered care, improving independence, and having fun while working hard. Outside of work, Sidney enjoys going to the gym, reading, baking, and playing with her two German Shepherds, Bailey and Maya. Savanna Newton Physiotherapist Savanna Newton Physiotherapist Savanna Newton, DPT graduated from the Medical University of South Carolina in 2020. Following graduation, Savanna immediately began working as a PT in early intervention with a wide range of diagnoses including, cerebral palsy, hypotonia/hypertonia, down syndrome, torticollis, delayed motor milestones, various genetic disorders, etc. It brings her so much joy to help a child reach their next motor milestone or bring a smile to their faces. When she’s not helping her young friends, she enjoys traveling with her husband, trying new restaurants, talking to her plants, or binging the newest Netflix series. Xyza Cabañero Physical Therapist Xyza Cabañero Physical Therapist Xyza has extensive experience in pediatric physiotherapy since 2016, and she’s all about making therapy as enjoyable as possible for the kids she works with. Previously a Senior Physiotherapist at Royal Surrey Hospital, she’s known for her creative, evidence-based treatment plans that help children tackle both physical and respiratory challenges in a way that feels less like work and more like fun. She also has a solid leadership background, having served as the head of the Physiotherapy Department at DOC Medical Center in Doha.Outside of work, and when she’s not busy pursuing her Doctorate degree in Physiotherapy, Xyza’s lifelong love for kids shines through. From caring for her sisters, cousins, nieces, and nephews to volunteering with charities for children with special needs, she’s always been dedicated to their well-being. And when she’s not doing all that? You’ll probably find her experimenting in the kitchen, relaxing with a book by the beach, or glued to some good old trashy reality TV. Xyza’s blend of professionalism, fun, and heart makes her someone both kids and parents love to be around. Samuel Zhang Clinic Aide Samuel Zhang Clinic Aide Sammy is a biochemistry graduate from Cal Poly Pomona, and he is hoping to break into the field of physical therapy. A major reason he is passionate about the field is the meaningful conversations and connections he builds with others. He previously worked as a behavior therapist, providing services to children with autism to support their behavioral and communication development. He values the opportunity to work closely with families to provide the most comprehensive support for their children. Outside of the office, Sammy is a big fan of MMA and regularly tries to train in nogi BJJ and kickboxing. As a California native, he also enjoys going outside on a hike with his beloved pitbull, Smokey! Just as much as Sammy likes being active outside, he loves staying inside to watch shows and movies on Netflix. He’s always looking forward to new recommendations! Eliza Rakich Occupational Therapist, Community Outreach Coordinator Eliza Rakich Occupational Therapist, Community Outreach Coordinator Eliza is a community-driven Occupational Therapist, passionate about supporting children and their families to reach their goals. She completed her Master’s in Occupational Therapy, and has extensive experience across education, health, community and sport sectors. Eliza has a natural ability to connect with children and their families. She always knew she wanted to work with children and as an OT, her keen interest in paediatric development has flourished. Eliza enjoys working within a team to create environments that nourish the social, emotional, and physical wellbeing of the children and families that she works with. Eliza strongly believes that within these environments, children and their families have the opportunity to embrace new experiences, develop valuable skills and build confidence. Eliza enjoys exploring the world through travel, and spending time outdoors, playing sports and hiking. She is so excited to be joining the team at NAPA London! Kristina Nguyen Occupational Therapist Kristina Nguyen Occupational Therapist Masters of Occupational Therapy (MOT), Colorado State University Kristina has known since high school that she wanted to be an Occupational Therapist. Her love for the pediatric population grew after volunteering with children at an outpatient pediatric clinic in North Carolina. She was amazed by the impact occupational therapy had on children and families! After completing her bachelor’s degree in Rehabilitation Services from East Carolina University, Kristina earned her Masters in Occupational Therapy from Colorado State University. While completing her master’s degree, Kristina worked at the Assistive Technology Resource Center helping college students with disabilities excel in secondary education. She continued to gain valuable experience in an outpatient pediatric clinic with a primary focus on sensory integration. She was introduced to NAPA by fellow physical therapists at the clinic, which sparked an immediate interest in neuro rehabilitation. Kristina takes pride in using a play-based, family centered, and strengths based approach to therapy in order to help clients and families reach meaningful goals. Outside of the clinic, you can find Kristina exploring hiking trails, throwing pottery on the wheel, dabbling in various arts and crafts/DIY projects, spending time with family and friends, and learning how to ski. Katie Ryan Occupational Therapist Katie Ryan Occupational Therapist Katie is a passionate and enthusiastic OT who received her education from Tufts University in Medford, MA. Prior to becoming an occupational therapist, Katie found her love of working with children in the pool as a swimming instructor, coach, and lifeguard. Teaching children of all abilities to love and feel safe in the water was just one factor that led to her to this amazing career path. Katie has spent time working in several different service areas including skilled nursing, subacute rehab, schools, and outpatient pediatric settings. A few of Katie’s favorite games/activities to play in OT sessions are Pop the Pig, making crafts, and navigating obstacle courses! Outside of work, Katie enjoys going to concerts, attending pilates class, taking a walk around the Charles River, or reading a mystery/thriller book! Sam O’Brien Occupational Therapist Sam O’Brien Occupational Therapist Bachelor Occupational Therapy (Honours), University of Newcastle, 2022. Sam was born and raised in a small country town in the Hunter Valley of Australia. From a young age, he always knew that he wanted to give back to others and enable all people to thrive. Through work experience in a neurological paediatric clinic, Sam was inspired to begin his journey into Occupational Therapy and has never looked back. He discovered his true passion and joy for working with children in his final clinical placement in Sydney, and a year of paediatric OT assistant work in Newcastle. He strives to incorporate a mixture fun, enthusiasm, and a high-quality of care in his practice as an OT. Sam believes every child deserves the opportunity to grow and thrive as a person, no matter the cards they’re dealt. He finds immeasurable joy seeing kids reshuffle these cards, and reach their full potential, in all aspects of their life. Sam witnessed the high-quality care, innovative and individualised therapy programs for children while volunteering at NAPA, and was beyond excited to join the team. When he’s not at work, you’ll find him missing every single shot on a basketball court or consuming as much Italian food as he can get his hands on, and a few beverages (fizzy drink). Sam loves socialising, playing games, exploring the city, binging movies and TV, Lego, and cooking especially when he’s not burning it. Estee Sulkin Speech Language Pathologist Estee Sulkin Speech Language Pathologist Bio coming soon! Jenn Isles Physiotherapist Jenn Isles Physiotherapist Doctor of Physiotherapy, The University of Melbourne Jenn grew up in Tasmania and came to Melbourne in 2012 to study physio. She has always had a passion for working with children. Whilst at university, Jenn volunteered running dance and exercise classes for children with disabilities and worked part-time at after school care programs, weekend camps and holiday programs for children. Jenn has experience working in hospital rehabilitation as well as community-based therapy where she supported children and families to achieve their goals through everyday roles and routines. She is so excited to join the NAPA team so she can continue to support children to achieve their potential in new, fun and engaging ways. Outside of work, she loves being outdoors, going skiing, trying new café’s with friends, running and exploring Melbourne’s parks with her dog Ted. Iliana Tripolone Therapy Aide Iliana Tripolone Therapy Aide Iliana brings diverse life and career experience to the NAPA team having started her journey in hospitals and private practice after studying a Bachelor of Applied Science Degree in Nuclear Medicine at Sydney University. Her post-graduate studies in Marketing at UTS lead her into the corporate sector for a while, but before long, her passion drew her back to health as she started her own business in Mosman delivering neuro-developmental classes for babies and children. It was here that Iliana was truly able to foster a Centre which embraced difference, identified the potential in every child, worked collaboratively with health professionals and delivered information seminars for parents. Iliana’s love and passion for children with disabilities started very early with the involvement from day one with her Down Syndrome cousin’s early intervention program and her volunteer work with the Down Syndrome Association and their UP Club Program. Having also successfully worked one-on-one with a non-verbal Autistic child during her time living in Dubai, and with the challenges she faced supporting her neuro-diverse daughter, Iliana has embraced the true meaning of individuality. This experience has shaped the way Iliana engages with her clients as she identifies their true potential, and delivers a personalised level of care with a nurturing touch. When Iliana isn’t working, you will find her spending time with her 2 children and husband, eating out with friends, going to the theatre, opera, ballet, art galleries, travelling and doing Yoga, Pilates and Barre classes. Kelly Maday Occupational Therapist Kelly Maday Occupational Therapist Kelly is a passionate Occupational Therapist dedicated to helping children thrive through creative, collaborative, and family-centered care. She earned her B.S. in Kinesiology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and her Doctorate of Occupational Therapy from College of Saint Mary. It was early in her undergraduate journey that Kelly discovered OT – a field that aligned perfectly with her dream of working with children through a meaningful and holistic framework. Kelly has experience with NeuroDevelopmental Treatment (NDT) and the DIRFloortime® model. While in graduate school, Kelly also led an extensive project focused on parent education, advocacy, and community support for families navigating chronic and complex conditions. Her sessions are grounded in positivity, playfulness, and a commitment to meeting each family where they are. After working in pediatric home health in Colorado, Kelly is excited to return to her home city of Chicago and be part of the enthusiastic NAPA team!Outside of NAPA, Kelly enjoys spending time with her husband and their dog, Finley, getting together with family and friends, traveling, and staying active. She’s also a proud supporter of her former soccer team — Go Illini! Wendy Stroda Occupational Therapist Wendy Stroda Occupational Therapist Wendy graduated from the University of Nebraska, Lincoln, in 2002 with a B.A. in Psychology. From there, she went on to pursue a Master of Arts in Recreation Therapy from the University of Nebraska, Omaha. As a certified therapeutic recreation specialist(CTRS), Wendy has worked through the CLASS program for the past 13 years providing home health services. Wendy also ran an adaptive gymnastics program at K2 Academy of Kids sports for 10 years, in Cypress, Texas. In 2014, Wendy completed her Master’s in Occupational Therapy at Texas Woman’s University, Houston Campus. She is certified through the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy and licensed through the Texas Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners. Wendy has completed the Handwriting Without Tears course, NDT Pediatric Course, Pediatric Kinesio Taping Course, and Cortical Vision Impairment course. She attends continuing education courses to remain current on occupational therapy techniques and approaches. In her free time, Wendy is the mother of 2 young children and enjoys running and reading. She also has two dogs and a very supportive husband. She is from the Houston area, most recently Tomball, and looks forward to her time in the Austin area. Olivia Caplan Physical Therapist Olivia Caplan Physical Therapist Olivia is a Physical Therapist at NAPA Boston. She attended the University of Connecticut for her undergrad and received a BS in Allied Health Sciences with a Psychology minor. Recently she graduated with her Doctor of Physical Therapy from MGH Institute of Health Professions in January 2024. During her academic career she had always been drawn to the neurological and pediatric population and was able to gain hands on experiences throughout clinical rotations. The resilience she saw in children is what kept her motivated and she is excited to continue her pediatric career at NAPA center with hopes to inspire kiddos to reach their max potential along the way. Outside of work she enjoys hiking, cycling/running, gardening, and binging book/TV series while snuggling up with her cat. Alison Whitman Occupational Therapist Alison Whitman Occupational Therapist Ali has her Master’s and Bachelor’s in Occupational Therapy from the University of New Hampshire. She has always loved working with children, including at summer camps and sport leagues for children with disabilities. Ali loves to be playful and connect with families to establish goals and determine what will motivate the child to be successful. She was inspired to become an occupational therapist as this field allows her to engage children in activities that are meaningful and valued while being holistic and recognizing all of the factors that may be impacting a child. Ali has been engaged in research focused on how the sensory needs of children with disabilities impacts their engagement in community activities. When not at NAPA, you can find Ali relaxing with a book, skiing, going to the beach, or traveling Benjamin Pirtle General Manager, Austin Benjamin Pirtle General Manager, Austin Originally from the PNW, Ben & his wife moved to Texas in 2017 and quickly fell in love with the surrounding Austin area, making it their home. He completed his DPT program through the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences in Austin, Texas, in December 2019. Being a kid at heart, he strives to empower and provide joy to his patients and their families, through tailored, engaging and playful treatment sessions while employing the most current evidence-informed practices. When he’s not at work, he loves spending time with his wife of 6 years and their 5-year-old GSP/Collie mix, Faith. They love the outdoors and are always looking for new places to camp, hike, fish, kayak and swim. They also devote their time to attending and serving at their church, seeking out community with the families with young children. Sydney Myers Occupational Therapist Sydney Myers Occupational Therapist Sydney has been an Occupational Therapist for 3 years and has worked in a variety of settings from adults in the hospital to a therapeutic preschool. During college, she worked as a Behavior Technician for children with autism and worked as a nanny. She has loved working with the neuro populations and has gone back to receive her Certified Neuro Specialist and Certified Stroke Rehabilitation Specialist certifications in an endeavor to continue learning and growing. She loves working with families to create comprehensive and holistic treatment plans for improved success at home. Felicity Ginis Physiotherapist Felicity Ginis Physiotherapist Master of Physiotherapy (2023) and Bachelor of Sport & Exercise Science (2021), University of Technology Sydney. Felicity is extremely passionate about her work as a physiotherapist and strives to support children to reach their greatest potential. Felicity has been working with children since she was 16, as a gymnastics coach and she loves to see them make progress with their skills and develop their self-confidence. The rewarding nature of her university placement at Sydney Children’s Hospital Randwick inspired Felicity to peruse paediatrics. She has also had the opportunity to undertake sports physiotherapy roles at state and national level soccer and gymnastics competitions. When Felicity isn’t at NAPA, she enjoys spending time at the beach, with family & friends and keeping active, whether that be playing soccer or going for jogs around the park (making sure to pat every dog that she passes). She’s also willing to give just about any form of physical activity a go, from rock climbing to ice-skating and trapeze… you name it! Jess McDowell Physiotherapist Jess McDowell Physiotherapist MSc Physiotherapy, Robert Gordon University, Scotland. MSc Clinical Neuroscience, Kings College London Jess’s background in neuroscience and passion for helping people led to her pursuing a career in physiotherapy, always knowing she wanted to work in neurological rehab. Jess qualified as a physio in 2014 and spent several years working in the NHS covering all aspects of physiotherapy, which cemented her passion for neuro rehab. During this time Jess worked with children across many specialities and ages; and being from a big family and having young children herself she knew she wanted to focus her career in paediatrics. Jess moved to Australia in 2020 with her young family and originally worked in private practice before discovering NAPA, she knew it was perfect for her to combine her love of children and all things Neuro. While she is not at Napa her kids keep her pretty busy, she can usually be found either running around after them at the beach or (hopefully!) in the surf. Julia Walker Patient Coordinator Julia Walker Patient Coordinator Julia is a genuinely kind individual with a passion for helping others. She was born in central California but has lived in Charlotte, NC since elementary school and has found roots in the South. She is very excited to be a part of the blooming Charlotte location and contribute to its growth. She has experience in various pediatric office settings and finds motivation and fulfillment in the opportunity to serve and spend time with children daily at NAPA. When she’s not at NAPA, Julia is likely to be found walking at the park with her husband, kids, and their pup, baking sour dough bread in the kitchen, or relaxing with her nose in a good book. Delaney Coleman Physical Therapist Delaney Coleman Physical Therapist Delaney earned her bachelor’s degree in kinesiology with a minor in psychology at Texas A&M University. Gig ’em Aggies! She went on to earn her doctorate in physical therapy back in her hometown at UT Health San Antonio. Delaney feels motivated by helping children build confidence, overcome challenges, and work toward achieving their full potential all while having fun! Outside of her career, Delaney enjoys reading, spending time with her husband, and being active through hiking and pickleball. Seijal Parsot Occupational Therapist Seijal Parsot Occupational Therapist Bachelor of Health Science Occupational Therapy, Auckland University of Technology Seijal always had an interest in working in the healthcare industry and has a passion for helping, uplifting and supporting others. After graduating from university with a Bachelor’s Degree in Occupational Therapy, and Post Graduate Certificate in Mental Health and Addiction, she worked for Mental Health Services in New Zealand, supporting individuals with mental health difficulties to engage in meaningful occupation. Seijal made the move to Australia in 2022, found her love for working with children and helping them to achieve their goals, grow, and learn, in a fun and creative way. Seijal has experience in working with children in clinics, schools, home-based settings, kindergartens and childcares. When she’s not at NAPA, she can be found baking, reading, running, hiking, or trying various cafés and restaurants with her friends. She also loves travelling and exploring countries, cities and learning about new cultures. Ashley DePalermo Physical Therapist Ashley DePalermo Physical Therapist An Austin-area native, Ashley developed a passion for movement early. She began dancing at age three and never stopped – through grade school, college, and a year as a character performer at Walt Disney World. As a physical therapist, her goal is to help every child experience the same joy in movement and find freedom in their bodies. Ashley earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from the University of Texas Medical Branch in 2015 and became a Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Pediatrics (PCS) in 2020. After practicing in Houston, Texas for 10 years, Ashley is excited to return to Austin and join the NAPA team. When she’s not at work, you can find Ashley at yoga class, browsing a used bookstore, or searching for the best vegetarian food in the city. Taylor Roderick Speech Language Pathologist Taylor Roderick Speech Language Pathologist Taylor has always known she wanted to work in the healthcare field and spend her career helping others. She attended the University of Rhode Island and obtained her MS in Speech-Language Pathology through a five-year accelerated program. Taylor believes in a child-centered, play based practice and following a child’s lead. She whole heartedly believes every individual has the right to communicate and should be treated the same, no matter the modality of communication they use. Taylor loves building positive and affirming connections and relationships with her patients and feels it is so important to meet them where they are at; while equipping them with the tools and support they need to expand their skills. Taylor has previous experience working in a pediatric outpatient setting specializing in Autism, early language and AAC. She has recently completed training to become a Natural Language Acquisition (NLA) Trained Clinician. She has a strong interest and background in working with autistic individuals, AAC, and Gestalt Language Processing and is ecstatic at the opportunity to grow her clinical skills and make an impact in the lives of those at NAPA. When she’s not at NAPA, you can find her singing, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. Vera Allman Assistant Manager Vera Allman Assistant Manager Vera graduated from Washington University in St. Louis with a Masters in Occupational Therapy in 2020. Before joining the NAPA team, she has experience working in adult acute care. She feels lucky to have had the opportunity to explore living in cities like Boston and Chicago. Her favorite part of working at NAPA is connecting with kids as they gain new skills. She loves spending time with friends, traveling, and being active with running and swimming. Helena Guo Speech Language Pathologist Helena Guo Speech Language Pathologist Bachelor of Applied Science (Speech Pathology), The University of Sydney Helena is an energetic, and empathetic Speech Pathologist with a passion for helping children grow and thrive through the ‘just right’ supports. With experience as a Speech Pathologist and Key Worker within the community space, and former support worker, she brings a holistic perspective to her work. Helena is trained in a range of approaches and tools to ensure she is up-to-date, evidence based and innovative in her ability to support the paediatric population. Some of these include HANEN, PROMPT, VitalStim, and Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy. Helena has many special interests! These include Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) prescription, feeding and swallowing difficulties, and motor speech difficulties (e.g., Childhood Apraxia of Speech). She also has interests in crocheting, exploring nature and cooking up a storm! Kestra Thompson Speech Language Pathologist Kestra Thompson Speech Language Pathologist Kestra graduated from California State University, Long Beach with her master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology in December 2022. She completed her bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders in April 2020 at the University of Redlands. She is thrilled to be joining the Denver team as a clinical fellow! During her graduate program, she completed an internship at the NAPA Center in Los Angeles where she fell in love with the pediatric population and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). Since high school, Kestra has been enthusiastic about working with children and knew she wanted a career where she could make a difference. She is passionate about helping children and their families increase their quality of life through the treatment of speech and language disorders, improving functional communication, or helping children find their voices. Born and raised in Colorado, Kestra is excited to move back from California after school to be near family again. When she is not at NAPA, you can find her cooking, dancing, enjoying the sunshine, and looking for new brunch spots. Jacqueline Peters Occupational Therapist Jacqueline Peters Occupational Therapist Jacqueline, a recent OTD graduate, is thrilled to return to NAPA Center Denver! During her clinical rotation at NAPA, she was inspired by how hardworking, lively, and resilient every NAPA kid was—and she is eager to bring that same energy into the clinic. Before pursuing OT, Jacqueline taught dance and gymnastics, where she discovered her love for working with children. She has also served as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for children in the foster care system, and she worked in a pediatric ER to help provide quality medical care to tiny humans. Originally from Texas, Jacqueline is trading her love of water sports for mountain adventures. No matter the activity, she’s happiest spending time outdoors with friends and family Vanessa Villagrana Gutierrez Early Intervention Assistant Vanessa Villagrana Gutierrez Early Intervention Assistant Vanessa received her bachelor’s in Psychology and Legal Studies from the University of California, Berkeley. During her undergraduate career, she spent time volunteering with organizations focused on prison reform while introducing education to incarcerated youth. She began questioning just how early in life she could introduce herself into someone’s life to make an impact. Because of that, she worked for an afterschool program for two academic years, supporting kids in K–5 with unique learning and personal challenges, which she fell in love with. Being able to work one-to-one with kids and being able to listen to their needs became her passion. She then looked to expand the age group she worked with and spent her last year in college working as an early intervention assistant before graduating in May 2025. Now at NAPA, Vanessa hopes to keep growing in the field of early childhood education and continue making an impact in children’s lives. Jocelyn Lee Occupational Therapist Jocelyn Lee Occupational Therapist Jocelyn received her combined bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in Occupational Therapy at the University of Southern California. She has lived in the South Bay all her life and fell in love with the OT profession at a young age. Since then, she has worked as a school-based OT, providing services to students of all ages and levels of support on the autism spectrum. She believes that the greatest gift OT has been for her is getting to walk alongside children and families, witnessing their growth every day. Outside of NAPA, Jocelyn lives by her morning walks and coffee, but also loves to try new hobbies and will happily take any recs! Emma Hewins Administration Coordinator Emma Hewins Administration Coordinator Cert IV in Government Emma has 15 years’ experience in the health industry in various administration and IT roles at both the Mackay Base and the Royal Brisbane Hospitals. Emma is excited to be part of the NAPA family and getting to know everyone and has a passion for helping people and making a difference. Emma is a Mum of a grown-up son and a stepmum to her 2 bonus children. In her spare time, you will find Emma spending time with her family and fur babies. Emma is also a hobby baker who has many wedding and specialty cakes under her belt (you could say this is her love language). Brooklynn Gumby Physical Therapist Brooklynn Gumby Physical Therapist Brooklynn Gumby, a dedicated physical therapist originally from Kansas City, Missouri, brings a strong passion for client-centered care to her role. After moving to Massachusetts to pursue her physical therapy education, she quickly fell in love with the abundance of professional opportunities in the area and chose to make it her home. With three years of experience working across both in-home and outpatient settings, Brooklynn has developed a well-rounded skillset and a deep understanding of how to support individuals of all ages in reaching their functional goals. Now a proud member of the NAPA team, Brooklynn is eager to grow under the guidance of leaders in the field, further refining her ability to serve families who travel from near and far to access NAPA’s services. Her greatest passion lies in tailoring therapy to meet the unique functional needs of each family, with a special emphasis on positioning and functional access to home and community settings. Outside of her work, Brooklynn enjoys exploring new places, attending music festivals, and spending quality time with her beloved dog, Demi. Joe O’Brien Physiotherapist Joe O’Brien Physiotherapist Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours), University of Newcastle, 2019 Joe grew up in the Hunter Valley and is an avid sports fan, which drew him towards Physiotherapy. Joe has worked at NAPA Sydney since November 2019 after starting as a student on clinical placement and has not looked back. He loves the journey that paediatric physiotherapy can take you on and is passionate about a child’s holistic development. In addition to being an experienced DMI therapist, he enjoys exploring the unique ways to maximise a child’s engagement and progression towards achieving their potential. Joe has many loves in life such as coffee, Liverpool FC and his family. He is also an AFL umpire in both the VFL and AFLW competitions and will happily chat your ear off about all things football. Ashley Glicksberg Occupational Therapist Ashley Glicksberg Occupational Therapist Bio coming soon! Jess Leach Occupational Therapist Jess Leach Occupational Therapist Jess is passionate about working with children, young adults and families to promote development, inclusion, hope and meaningful participation in everyday life. Growing up in a neuro-divergent family, Jess has always been keen on working with children and young adults who experience barriers to their health and well-being, including physical, cognitive, sensory, social, self-care and communication difficulties. After completing a placement in neurological and physical rehabilitation whilst studying, Jess knew this was an area she wanted to pursue, which inspired her to apply for an occupational therapy role at NAPA. When Jess isn’t at NAPA, she’s usually drawing or painting, listening to music or seeing a new movie at the cinemas. Jess also loves playing soccer, and exploringoutdoors or going on adventures. Lauren Bielby Occupational Therapist Lauren Bielby Occupational Therapist Lauren graduated from Le Moyne College in Syracuse, NY with her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy in 2021. Immediately following graduation, Lauren started her occupational therapy career as a travel occupational therapist where she had the opportunity to work in Michigan, New York and Texas (where she fell in love with Austin)! Throughout her travels, Lauren discovered her passion for working with children and families while helping educate and facilitate independence with meaningful activities! In 2023, Lauren completed training to become a Certified Neuro Specialist, furthering her education for current, evidence-based interventions for neurological rehabilitation. When not at NAPA, you can find her at a spin or yoga class, soaking up the sunshine on her paddleboard, curled up with a good book or checking out the Austin food scene with her friends! Joel Salter Clinical Education Coordinator Joel Salter Clinical Education Coordinator Bachelor of Physiotherapy, Western Sydney University, Australia Joel has always had a strong passion for working with children. Since his paediatric student placement at the Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Australia, he has been dedicated to making his dream of being a paediatric Physiotherapist a reality, and is incredibly excited to be working at NAPA! Prior to working as a Physiotherapist, Joel worked as a disability support worker for four years. He developed a strong passion for children suffering from neurological disorders and is committed to helping these children and their families overcome the unique barriers that each child faces. He has completed external courses specific to Paediatric Physiotherapy and has loved his time working with children in the acute hospital setting but in outpatient and community settings also.Joel recently moved to London from Sydney, Australia and is loving his time in England. When he isn’t working hard at NAPA, he is exploring the amazing nature around London, catching the national rail to various towns/cities and is enjoying a swim or spa. He loves books, dogs walks and enjoys knitting a variety of items for his friends and families. Joel is is very excited to be involved with our supportive NAPA team! Brianna Reynolds Physical Therapist Brianna Reynolds Physical Therapist Bio coming soon! Calista Ortiz Patient Coordinator Calista Ortiz Patient Coordinator Calista Ortiz, a Chicago native, radiates a passion for animals, art, and family. A devoted caretaker to a variety of animals and a loving older sister, Calista brings warmth into her home. Professionally, she has always found fulfillment working with children, leaving a positive impact on those she encounters. Outside of her career, Calista enjoys cooking, spending time with loved ones, and embracing the vibrant culture of her hometown Chicago. Whether she’s whipping up a meal, or simply sharing moments with family, Calista Ortiz embodies a life rich in love and connection. Ashley Baker Physical Therapist Ashley Baker Physical Therapist Ashley has always had a passion for working with children. Her favorite part about being a pediatric PT is the look on a kids face when they learn a new skill! Ashley is a CO native and grew up in Grand Junction. She studied biology at the University of Denver and received her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. Prior to NAPA, Ashley worked in early intervention and at a pediatric outpatient clinic in Denver. In her free time, Ashley enjoys skiing, hiking, mountain biking, reading, and playing with her puppy! Katie Watson Physical Therapist Katie Watson Physical Therapist PT DPT, Pediatric Residency 2021-2022 // Katie knew from a young age that physical therapy was her calling, specifically pediatrics. Growing up with her older sister who was adopted and had a diagnosis of Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy gave her a unique insight into the difficulties that children face with neurological impairments. Since graduating school, Katie has gone on to work with a wide variety of pediatric patients, but she consistently finds herself drawn to kids with complex needs and neurological impairments, challenging her creativity in treatment to help her patients reach their potential. Outside of her career as a physical therapist, Katie loves spending time with her husband and animals, going on hikes, playing video games, and working out. Nicole Blain Physiotherapist Nicole Blain Physiotherapist Nicole is a passionate and hardworking paediatric physiotherapist with a wealth of experience in helping children reaching their fullest potential. She brings a deep understanding of the unique challenges and needs of young patients, coupled with a personalised approach to care. Originally from Canada, Nicole completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiology, specialising in Rehabilitation Sciences, which ignited an interest in the field of Physiotherapy. Looking to escape the snow, Nicole decided to pack her bags and move to Australia where she completed her Master’s Degree in Physiotherapy in 2018. Beyond the clinic, Nicole likes to focus on developing her own body and mind and can often be found lifting weights at the gym, going on hikes or hanging out at the beach. Nicky Serfozo Therapy Aide Nicky Serfozo Therapy Aide Bio coming soon! Laura Caskey Physical Therapist Laura Caskey Physical Therapist Laura graduated from Indiana University with a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. She is a dedicated pediatric physical therapist who is passionate about collaborating with children and their families to help them achieve their gross motor goals. She enjoys incorporating creativity and play into therapy sessions, making exercises engaging and meaningful for each child. Laura emphasizes the importance of understanding the “why” behind exercises and takes pride in educating parents on home exercise programs to support continued progress beyond the clinic.With experience working with children with a variety of conditions, including Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and leukodystrophy, Laura brings a compassionate and individualized approach to care. She is committed to fostering confidence and independence in her patients while ensuring therapy remains both effective and enjoyable.Outside of work, Laura loves spending time outdoors, hiking scenic trails, or practicing yoga. She also has a passion for crafting and finds relaxation in working on intricate crochet patterns. Jenna Lenich Physiotherapist Jenna Lenich Physiotherapist Details coming soon Annabelle Gallo Physical Therapist Annabelle Gallo Physical Therapist Annabelle chose to pursue a career in physical therapy due to experiencing a personal injury where she had to undergo rehabilitation for several months. She found that this career would be one that helped fulfill her love for helping others while also healing them so that they could continue to participate in the activities that they love. She received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy at Western University of Health Sciences in Oregon. Her love for working with the pediatric population flourished during school where she was involved in a research project that helped build custom sit to stand boxes for children with developmental delays. She developed her passion for helping children while on a clinical rotation in Idaho and she found out just how rewarding it could be to help children with complex medical diagnoses unlock their true potential. When she is not working, you can find her hanging out at the beach, taking workout classes, enjoying reality television, or scoping out a local coffee shop. Emily Varcoe Therapy Aide Emily Varcoe Therapy Aide Emily is passionate about making therapy fun and loves seeing the dedication, smiles and laughter from everybody at NAPA! She uses her experience as a disability support worker and dance teacher to encourage enjoyment, individuality, independence, and goal achievements. When Emily isn’t at NAPA, you could find her going on walks, dancing, reading books, watching Netflix or listening to Taylor Swift. Alexandria Huff Physical Therapist Alexandria Huff Physical Therapist Alex was born and raised in Texas. As the eldest of five siblings, she has always had a passion for working with children. Growing up she became involved in various youth organizations that encouraged active play and physical activity for children with disabilities. After graduating from the University of Texas at Austin, she moved to Australia to pursue a Doctorate of Physical Therapy at Macquarie University with a specialty in pediatrics. Alex has experience working with children through hippotherapy, providing early childhood intervention services and has conducted research in the pediatric population in Sydney, Australia. When she is not at NAPA, Alex enjoys being out and about with her dogs, cheering on the Texas Longhorns and indulging in TexMex. Georgia Ventouris Therapy Aide Georgia Ventouris Therapy Aide Studying a bachelors of Speech Pathology (Honours), The University of Newcastle, Australia Georgia is currently on the path of completing her Bachelors of Speech Pathology (Honours) at the University of Newcastle. Georgia’s passion for working with children and wanting to see kids achieve their goals stemmed from the roots of teaching kids artistic gymnastics and dance. Georgia’s time at the clinic has been nothing short of transformative as she has been able to learn techniques and skills from other allied health professions whilst also positively impacting the lives of the children that come through the NAPA doors. When not at NAPA you can find Georgia spending time with her family, going to the gym, going out with friends or snuggling up on the couch watching a movie. Yasna Parra Occupational Therapist Yasna Parra Occupational Therapist Yasna Parra is a dedicated registered Occupational Therapist specialising in paediatric neurological and physical rehabilitation. She earned her Postgraduate Diploma in Health Science in Rehabilitation from Auckland University of Technology and holds a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy and a Bachelor in Occupational Science from Universidad Austral de Chile. Additionally, she is certified as a Level II CME practitioner. Yasna’s passion for paediatric neurorehabilitation was ignited by her personal experience caring for an infant with severe early brain damage. Witnessing the daily challenges faced by children and their families to access appropriate treatments inspired her to dive into the complexities of early brain damage, motor control development, and rehabilitation. Her goal is to provide cutting-edge treatments to support her clients in achieving their highest developmental potential and occupational aspirations. Yasna’s favourite part about working at NAPA is that it allows her to craft innovative paediatric neurorehabilitation programs tailored to each child and their family’s unique needs. When Yasna is not working, she enjoys unwinding walking her little cavoodle, Harry, indulging in marathon series sessions, and spending quality time with friends. Charlie LaScala Chief of Puppy Relations Charlie LaScala Chief of Puppy Relations Patients love a chance to say hi to Charlie as he makes his way to his executive office alongside Lynette. Charlie actively participates in team meetings, perched on top of Lynette’s desk, which also serves as his favorite place to nap. Our furry friend is passionate about chasing balls and finding pine cones. Charlie reminds us daily to go for walks outside and enjoy the simple things in life like playing fetch. Tanael Escartin Billing Manager Tanael Escartin Billing Manager Tanael grew up in Venezuela, where she earned her Bachelor of Chemical Engineering degree. She worked for several years at Venezuela’s largest brewery, Empresas Polar. Quickly recognized for her talent, Tanael was selected as the first woman the brewery sponsored to study Brewing Science in Germany, where she earned her Master of Biotechnology Engineering with a focus on Brewing Science from the Technical University of Berlin. In 2015 Tanael decided to emigrate due to the political and economic instability of the country and moved to the US. In 2018 Tanael’s dream of becoming a mother was made true. Her son Nathaniel changed her life and priorities. Nathaniel was born with Down Syndrome and Tanael, supported by her family, decided to dedicate all her efforts to help Nathaniel thrive in life. In November 2020, Tanael was offered a remote position to work with the Utah Department of Health as a COVID-19 Contact Tracer. Motivated by her desire to help people and contribute to slow the curve of growing cases. In May 2022, Tanael and her family moved from Utah to Massachusetts seeking better opportunities for their son. Nathaniel attended an intensive program at NAPA Center in November 2020 and since then Tanael learned that her goals are aligned with NAPA’s values and mission.8 Erika Price Speech Language Pathologist Erika Price Speech Language Pathologist MS Communication Sciences and Disorders, University of Vermont Erika chose to pursue speech language pathology after an inspiring pitch from a professor in an undergraduate course entitled, “Major Decisions.” Since then, she has developed a passion and enthusiasm for working with children to help them achieve their highest potential. Erika has widespread evaluation and treatment experience with children of all ages, including childhood apraxia of speech, expressive and receptive language, speech sound disorders, fluency, pragmatics and social skills, and feeding and swallowing. She enjoys the fun, challenge, and diversity that comes with working with children, and she strives to create a constructive and trusting relationship with her clients and their families. She is committed to creating engaging, functional, and innovative treatment activities to best address each client’s unique goals and promote success in and out of therapy. Outside of work, Erika enjoys long walks with her dog, Lucy, going to the gym, and exploring the local food scene. Rebekah Hill Physiotherapist Rebekah Hill Physiotherapist Doctor of Physiotherapy, Bond University. Originally from the US, Rebekah has spent most of her life playing sports including her four years in undergrad earning her BA in Exercise Science. Rebekah knew she wanted to study Physiotherapy after a sports injury that caused her to spend some time in private practice. It wasn’t until her paediatric course in University that she became interested in working with children and saw the difference physios can make in their lives. Rebekah found her passion for Paediatric Physiotherapy after completing a clinical rotation at NAPA Sydney. She fell in love working with the children, her colleagues, and the NAPA organisation. She knew for sure this is where she wanted to be after realising she left work every day with her cheeks hurting because she smiled so much throughout the day. When Rebekah isn’t at NAPA she can usually be found on the beach soaking up the sun, playing volleyball with friends, or traveling. Audrey Dwinnell Occupational Therapist Audrey Dwinnell Occupational Therapist Audrey received her undergraduate degree from Texas Christian University (TCU) and her Doctorate of Occupational Therapy at Creighton University. She is a Denver native and has been anxious to get back to the Colorado sunshine! Audrey knew from a young age that she wanted to work in the medical field, specifically with kids with developmental disabilities. While at TCU, she spent a lot of her free time volunteering at the on-campus preschool for children with Down syndrome called Kinderfrogs. It was at Kinderfrogs that Audrey was introduced to occupational therapy, and she instantly fell in love! Prior to working at NAPA, Audrey worked in Fort Worth, TX in an outpatient pediatrics setting providing intensive therapy services. She also has experience in early intervention and adult neuro. Audrey is passionate about empowering kiddos to reach their fullest potential! In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family/friends, traveling, attending football games, trying new restaurants or coffee shops, and walking her pup, Ellis! Lizbeth Rodriguez Early Intervention Assistant Lizbeth Rodriguez Early Intervention Assistant BS Child Development, California State University Dominguez Hills Lizbeth chose the path of Child Development to pursue careers that focus on mental health awareness for early childhood. She got inspired through being a huge help in caretaking her younger siblings. What Lizbeth enjoys the most about working with kids is celebrating the milestone and growth a child shows. Ann Kennedy Speech Language Pathologist Ann Kennedy Speech Language Pathologist M.S., CCC-SLP, Master of Science in Communication Science and Disorders, University of Texas at Dallas Ann is a certified member of the American Speech Language and Hearing Association (ASHA). She received her Bachelor’s degree in Speech Language Hearing Sciences from the University of Texas at Dallas and her Master’s degree in Communication Disorders from the University of Texas. Working extensively with preschoolers and school-aged children in the public schools, she specializes in the evaluation and treatment of a variety of communication disorders. For example, articulation and phonological disorders, receptive/expressive language disorders, fluency/stuttering, autism spectrum disorders, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, pragmatics/social skills, and other developmental delays. Ann is passionate about building relationships with her patients and families and loves being a part of the Napa team! AK Jones Occupational Therapist AK Jones Occupational Therapist AK knew early in life that she wanted to work with kids, but finding a career such as occupational therapy exceeded all previous expectations. After graduating from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center with her doctorate in occupational therapy she hoped to find a career that aligned with her passions and goals. Throughout her classes, AK gravitated towards neurological foundations and pediatric studies. Once discovering NAPA Center, AK knew instantly that she wanted to work as an OT within the pediatric neurological population for this clinic. Serving children is the most rewarding career anyone could pursue. When AK is not at NAPA she enjoys spending time with friends, walking her dog named Finnegan, and working out at Orangetheory. Brittany Gotts Physical Therapist Brittany Gotts Physical Therapist Brittany graduated from Simmons University in Boston, MA after completing both her Bachelors in Exercise Science and Doctor of Physical Therapy degrees. From a young age, she spent a lot of time caring for and observing the various therapies that a younger family member who has Down Syndrome was participating in. Brittany immediately knew that she wanted to work in pediatrics, and the role of Physical Therapy in particular sparked an interest that was further confirmed throughout her various clinical experiences while in PT school. She has experience in treating both children and adults in inpatient, outpatient, home, and school settings, in addition to her time at NAPA as a PT student! When not at NAPA, you can find Brittany at the beach, walking or biking around Boston to find the best ice cream, or hanging out with friends and family! Sophia Pritchard Occupational Therapist Sophia Pritchard Occupational Therapist Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours), The University of Queensland Sophia was inspired by her mother from an early age to work with children and in health after listening about her work as a paediatric Dietician. After stumbling upon Occupational Therapy, she has never looked back and has found a great passion in helping children to achieve their goals in the most enjoyable, playful and meaningful way possible. She sees great value in using evidence-based approaches to help families reach great outcomes in therapy and creating smiles in the process. When Sophia is not at NAPA, she’s exploring new hikes, hosting game nights with friends, spending time with her niece and nephew or working on her latest jigsaw puzzle. She will almost never turn down a bubble tea, which is a bit of a guilty pleasure! Sarah Wills HR Officer Sarah Wills HR Officer Sarah has over 15 years’ experience in the Operations field with a recent focus on Human Resources. Prior to joining NAPA, Sarah worked as a Human Resources professional, overseeing a team of over 200 staff across 13 different childcare centres. Her journey has taken her through diverse industries, including the early childhood education and care sector, marketing and events in both Australia and Singapore. Sarah remains dedicated to fostering growth, nurturing talent, and contributing to the success of every team she’s part of. When not working, you will find Sarah unwinding through pilates, yoga, enjoying the beach with her family, or engrossed in a good nonfiction book. Kimberlee Elliott Senior Program Director Kimberlee Elliott Senior Program Director MSW, California State University, Long Beach Kimberlee was born and raised in the Echo Park community of Los Angeles. She is the fourth of six children, the only girl, with five brothers. Since childhood, Kimberlee always enjoyed helping others so a career in social work seemed inevitable. Kimberlee started her career with the Department of Children and Family Services, Adoptions Division, where she worked for 12 1/2 years. But as a parent of a child with medical and developmental needs, Kimberlee was drawn into the field of early intervention. She witnessed first hand how early intervention changed the life of her daughter and her family, in spite of the negative prognosis from doctors and specialists. Kimberlee worked as an early interventionist for 18 1/2 years at Pediatric Therapy Network and for an additional two years at Momentum Pediatric Therapy Network. Kimberlee is a passionate advocate for early intervention and its profound impact on young children and their families. When not advocating for children and families, Kimberlee enjoys spending time with family and friends, whether outdoors taking walks along the beach, eating out at favorite restaurants, traveling, and watching movies. Ana Indolfo Therapy Aide Ana Indolfo Therapy Aide Ana knew that she wanted to be a Physiotherapist since her early years after becoming fascinated with the rehabilitation process and the body’s ability to heal. Since her graduation as Bachelor of Physiotherapy at University Santa Cecilia (UNISANTA) in Brazil, she worked in many different physiotherapy areas such as Neurological, Orthopaedics, Sports and Geriatrics. In 2010 she moved with her family to Australia and more recently joined NAPA, initially as a volunteer and then as Therapy Aide where she fulfils her passion for working with kids rehabilitation. Outside of working she enjoys life being a mother of two kids and practicing yoga and pilates. Carolyn Stoesser Physical Therapist Carolyn Stoesser Physical Therapist Carolyn is a silly, enthusiastic pediatric physical therapist. She started working in pediatrics during graduate school and has loved it ever since. Carolyn received her Doctor of Physical Therapy from Northern Illinois University in 2018 and has worked with both pediatric and adult clients since graduating. When not treating, she loves hanging out with her friends and family, reading, and going on walks. She also enjoys watching an occasional reality TV show. Carolyn is excited to develop her hands on skills through techniques such as Dynamic Movement Intervention (DMI). She is also passionate about incorporating play into all physical therapy sessions and finding ways to make physical therapy fun. Mei-Li Smith Speech Language Pathologist Mei-Li Smith Speech Language Pathologist MS Speech and Language Pathology, Northeastern University Mei-li is a California native returning after six years from the East Coast after finishing her Master’s at Northeastern University. It’s easy to see, Mei-Li is passionate about pediatrics and is excited to help support families communication and feeding needs. Prior to speech therapy, her background includes Applied Behavior Analysis, where she worked with children on the Autism Spectrum supporting communication and behaviors. In addition, she served as a developmental specialist in the field of Early Intervention, where she learned to collaborate with other disciplines and work with families as a whole. Mei-Li worked for three years in NAPA Los Angeles before transferring to her new home here in Melbourne. Her areas of interest include AAC, social language skills, and oral motor/feeding. Free time is spent at the beach playing volleyball, cooking, and traveling. Katie Wegrecki Occupational Therapist Katie Wegrecki Occupational Therapist MS Occupational Therapy, Elmhurst University Katie chose occupational therapy because of her passion for working with children and witnessing their infinite potential for growth. Prior to becoming an occupational therapist, she gained experience with neurodiverse children working as a behavior technician and personal care assistant utilizing creativity and play to help children improve confidence and independence. After completing her fieldwork at NAPA, she fell in love with this population as well as the intensive model. Outside of NAPA Katie likes to spend time outdoors, travelling, and hanging out with family/friends/pets. Sanduni Pieris Speech Language Pathologist Sanduni Pieris Speech Language Pathologist Bsc in Honors Biomedical science with a minor in Medical Physiology, University of Waterloo, Canada MA of Speech Language Pathology, University of Queensland, Australia Sanduni (Sandy) has always enjoyed working with children. She is a bubbly, motivated, and empathetic person who enjoys working with children and families to achieve their therapy goals. She loves to work within a multidisciplinary framework, and strongly believes in providing holistic, evidence based, and functional client-centred therapy for all her clients. Her passion for Speech Pathology stems from her deep desire to make positive differences in people’s lives. Sandy has had several experiences working with children with special needs and communication difficulties both in Australia and overseas in Canada across schools, hospitals, day cares, and private practice settings. She enjoys working with children in the areas of speech, receptive and expressive language, literacy, social communication, and presents a special interest in paediatric feeding, dysphagia management and Augmentative and Alternative Communication. As a practitioner, she endeavours to support all her clients to reach their full potential and make a difference in their lives as they grow into being the best they can be. When Sandy is not busy at work, she reads up on her special interests in AAC, language development and feeding. She also loves dancing, going out for walks, and travelling the world in her free time. Ruairi Kirwan Physiotherapist Ruairi Kirwan Physiotherapist Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy Ruairi is a passionate and dedicated physiotherapist from Ireland (yes, another one!) who graduated with first-class honours from University College Dublin. From a young age, Ruairi knew he wanted to work with children—coming from a family of teachers, he has always been drawn to helping others, particularly children with disabilities. He has worked in paediatrics for nearly six years, most recently as a Senior Physiotherapist in both community settings in Ireland and at another clinic here in Sydney. Ruairi is driven by a deep commitment to helping children maximise their independence, reach their potential and achieve their goals. A self-confessed sports fanatic (and highly competitive!), Ruairi has played Gaelic football, hurling, soccer, rugby and tennis. Since moving to Australia, he’s developed a love for distance running and triathlons—completing five marathons and a triathlon in the past 18 months alone. You’re most likely to spot Ruairi swimming in the ocean early in the morning, running laps around Centennial Park, or sipping coffee afterwards. Jordyn Pursel Director of Rehabilitation, Charlotte Jordyn Pursel Director of Rehabilitation, Charlotte M.S. Occupational Therapy, University of the Sciences in Philadelphia Jordyn knew she wanted to enter the field of Occupational Therapy after working as a rehab aide for a young girl with a traumatic brain injury. She believes there is no greater joy than celebrating with an individual who has reached their goals. From there, she continued working as a caregiver for children and adults with disabilities throughout college and graduate school. Jordyn always envisioned herself working in pediatrics, but never thought she would end up moving across the country to do so. While not a California native, Jordyn has quickly adapted to the LA lifestyle. In her free time, you can find her working out, biking along the beach, exploring new restaurants, or indulging in an endless supply of mint chocolate-chip ice cream. Jordyn’s lively personality adds value when providing treatment to any individual that enters NAPA’s doors. Nicole Moon Therapy Aide Nicole Moon Therapy Aide Nicole loves working at NAPA because she has the opportunity to learn from an amazing team of therapists. Inspired by her eldest daughter Nicole is motivated to utilise the acquired skills to benefit her daughter and the children she will be supporting at the centre. Nicole loves the fun, friendly and supportive environment that NAPA provides and has always had a passion to work with kids. Nicole’s hobbies consists of spending time with her dog Mack and Cat Pixie and exploring the outdoors with her family. Nicole’s guilty pleasure is Reality Tv, The Kardashians, The Real housewives of Beverly Hills just to name a few. Allison Bronakowski Physical Therapist Allison Bronakowski Physical Therapist Allie grew up in Berthoud, Colorado before she moved to Pittsburgh, PA to pursue her physical therapy career. Allie previously worked at an outpatient clinic in Pittsburgh serving the pediatric population with a focus on neurological disorders and worked with their intensity program. Allie has previous knowledge with the UEU system and has come to find working within an intensive model is her passion. When Allie is not at NAPA she enjoys spending time with her husband, family and friends, exploring her new home of Castle Rock, CO and trying local restaurants! Allie loves running, biking and exploring all that CO has to offer! Jessica Andrew Physiotherapist Jessica Andrew Physiotherapist Bachelor of Physiotherapy, University of KwaZulu Natal, South Africa Jess knew growing up that she wanted a career in helping people, and physiotherapy has been a great way of combining her love for this with her passion for understanding the human body and nervous system. She qualified in physiotherapy in South Africa and has done further courses in the assessment and treatment of kids and adults with neurological disorders. She realised she wanted to work with kids in her second year of studies, while doing a paediatric clinical block, and found that there is so much hope in helping them achieve goals that can often seem difficult to reach. The best part of working with kids is that you can have so much fun while working hard. Jess’s favourite part of working at NAPA is the team spirit and great diversity of larger-than-life personalities she has the joy of working with on a daily basis. When Jess is not at NAPA, you can find her exploring beaches and coffee spots with her husband and little girl. She loves a catch up with friends and going for a good run. Michelle Rossiter Speech Department Manager Michelle Rossiter Speech Department Manager Masters of Speech Language Pathology; BA Marketing and English Language and Linguistics Michelle has spent the past 10 years working as Paediatric Speech Pathologist across different settings in both Australia and the United Kingdom. She very quickly found her passion for working with children and young people with complex communication needs. Michelle has previously worked at Napa Sydney and London and was excited to return to Australia to lead the Speech team. Outside of work, Michelle is frequently travelling and exploring. Candy Lopez-Vasquez Early Intervention Assistant Candy Lopez-Vasquez Early Intervention Assistant BS Communicative Sciences and Disorders, California State University, Fullerton Candy is an Early Intervention Teacher Assistant with hands-on experience supporting young children with developmental delays and disabilities. She developed a strong passion for helping children achieve their full potential while volunteering at NAPA. With a deep commitment to children’s development, Candy is working towards becoming a Speech Therapist. Candy is dedicated to helping children build foundational skills that will help them thrive. In her free time, Candy enjoys traveling, walking along the beach, and spending quality time with her family and friends. Katie Dahlerbruch Occupational Therapist Katie Dahlerbruch Occupational Therapist Katie studied Psychology and Disability Studies at UCLA and then went on to receive her OTD from Boston University. She cares deeply about getting to know both kids and their families, and she loves all opportunities to learn and grow as a clinician. This South Bay native has been interested in NAPA since undergrad, and she is excited to welcome all visiting families to her home turf. Katie’s interest in occupational therapy has also been largely motivated by her older brother who has a disability and would’ve likely been one of NAPA’s clients if it was around when he was younger. Kelli Dillon Physical Therapist Kelli Dillon Physical Therapist Kelli was born in Laguna Hills, California and was raised in Austin, Texas. She attended Texas A&M University (GIG ‘EM AGGIES) where she earned her Bachelor’s in Kinesiology in 2019. She then earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy at Angelo State University in 2022. From volunteering at various pediatric clinics in College Station, TX, completing a pediatric clinical rotation in San Antonio, TX, and working in outpatient pediatric facilities in Houston, TX, Kelli discovered her love and passion for working with children. She decided it was time to move back home to Austin, which lead her to pursuing a career at NAPA so she could continue making a positive impact on the pediatric population. Kelli values getting to know each child during therapy and incorporating their unique motivators and interests into each session so that therapy is an enjoyable and fun experience for all. Outside of working as a Pediatric Physical Therapist, Kelli enjoys walking her dog, taking pilates classes, cooling off in the pool or at the lake, scuba diving, and spending time with friends and family. Kristen Desjardins Speech Therapy Manager Kristen Desjardins Speech Therapy Manager Kristen received her Bachelor of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from Texas Christian University in 2007 and her Master of Science in Communication Disorders from The University of Texas at Dallas in 2009. Kristen holds the Certificate of Clinical Competence awarded by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and is a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist in the state of Texas. She is trained in the following: Hanen parent training program ‘It Takes Two to Talk,’ PROMPT, Vital Stim (NMES), AEIOU Approach to Feeding, and Beckman Oral Motor Protocol. Kristen’s clinical experiences include working in the public school system with the Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) program, Early Childhood Intervention (ECI), and private practice. Her professional interests include infant and toddler language acquisition, pediatric language disorders, articulation and phonological disorders, Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS), developmental delays, and feeding and swallowing disorders. Kristen is happy to be living in her hometown of Austin and close to family after living in Dallas for 13 years. She enjoys spending time with family and friends, attending church services, watching TCU football, volunteering, traveling, and trying new restaurants. Megan Shoemaker Physical Therapist Megan Shoemaker Physical Therapist Megan earned her undergraduate degree from Capital University in Columbus Ohio and her Doctorate of Physical Therapy degree from Duke University. She is originally from Ohio but moved to Colorado for the sunshine and active lifestyle! During high school, she found herself volunteering for Special Olympics and joining an Adaptive Equipment club making and tweaking devices for children and adults with neurologic disorders. Since then, Megan knew she wanted to enter a profession where she could help and encourage others who often get told they can’t do something when they certainly can! Once arriving at Duke, she took every opportunity to continue her education and skills in the neurologic and pediatric settings which lead her to NAPA. Megan is truly passionate about helping children become more independent, strong, and confident and loves to see the pride they have when they master a tricky task. When she is not at NAPA, you can find her trying a new workout class, tasting new coffee shops, painting, reading, and hiking. David Grocott General Manager, NAPA UK David Grocott General Manager, NAPA UK David first came into contact with NAPA when his son Angus started intensive sessions in the summer of 2018 to treat his quadriplegic cerebral palsy. He says he quickly saw the impact of the intensive model and the benefit it could bring to children and their entire families. It is now “the privilege of his life” to help bring NAPA to the UK and to shift the landscape for pediatric Neurodisability provision throughout Europe. As a former teacher and school leader, David is a proud history nerd and published historian who enjoys a good book, long runs, and the constant disappointment of supporting the Colchester United football club. “I will do all I can to help families in the UK,” He said, “We will never give up”. Allison Staib Speech Language Pathologist Allison Staib Speech Language Pathologist Allison earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Arizona. While in graduate school, she found a love for working with pediatric patients. Now, she’s excited to return to her hometown in Colorado to join the NAPA team as a clinical fellow! In her free time, Allison enjoys spending time with her friends and family (including her two dogs), hiking, and watching movies. Miranda Milunsky Physical Therapist Miranda Milunsky Physical Therapist Miranda received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the MGH Institute of Health Professions after completing her undergraduate studies at UMass Amherst in Kinesiology and Psychology. Her passion for helping others and understanding the human body developed from her experience growing up alongside a chronically ill family member. She was excited to pursue pediatric physical therapy, as this career path aligned with her aspirations of guiding others to achieve functional goals and make lasting impacts on the lives of children and families. Outside of work, you can find Miranda hiking with her pups, social dancing, or attending a show at the theater. Victor Studenny Physiotherapist Victor Studenny Physiotherapist Victor is a dedicated and compassionate physiotherapist from Canada. With a strong passion for helping others, he pursued a career in physiotherapy after being inspired by his experiences volunteering at a children’s hospital. Witnessing the positive impact of physiotherapy on young patients, Victor was motivated to make a difference in people’s lives through this field. Victor came to Australia to complete his Doctor of Physiotherapy degree at Bond University in the Gold Coast. With his expertise, genuine empathy, and commitment to ongoing learning, Victor strives to make a lasting impact on the lives of his patients. His ultimate goal is to empower individuals to achieve optimised physical health, functional independence, and improved quality of life. Morgan Bartley Speech Language Pathologist Morgan Bartley Speech Language Pathologist M.S. Speech Language Pathology, Northeastern University. Morgan’s interest in Speech Language Pathology began her freshman year of college at the University of Colorado. After taking an intro to communication disorders class she was hooked! She attended graduate school at Northeastern University and worked in the inpatient medical setting with adults for the first 6 years of her career before taking the leap and switching to pediatrics. Morgan has extensive experience working with medically complex patients, knowledge of tracheostomy care and vent weaning, alternative and augmentative communication, dysphagia, and cognitive-linguistic deficits, and she is looking forward to expanding this knowledge base at NAPA.In her free time Morgan enjoys spending time with her dog Dolly, working on home projects, and trying to master the art of gardening. Morgan enjoys spending time in the mountains and at the lake. After a long day of work Morgan likes to sink into the couch and watch some high quality reality television. Sarah Epstein Occupational Therapist Sarah Epstein Occupational Therapist Sarah has always been passionate about working with kids. She discovered occupational therapy while volunteering at a children’s hospital and fell in love with the field. She finds so much joy in empowering children to reach their goals and finding creative solutions to help people thrive in their daily activities. After completing her bachelor’s degree in Biopsychology, Cognition, and Neuroscience at the University of Michigan, Sarah earned her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Rush University in her hometown of Chicago, IL. NAPA Center is an absolute dream job, combining Sarah’s passion for pediatrics with her interest in neuro rehab. Prior to starting at NAPA, Sarah gained valuable experience in outpatient, home health, and community-based settings, shaping her holistic, strengths-based, and client-centered approach to therapy. Since leaving the Midwest, Sarah has been taking advantage of all that Denver has to offer with frequent trips to the mountains to camp, hike, snowboard, and sightsee. Outside of the clinic, you can also find Sarah playing tennis, taking dance classes, reading, traveling, and spending quality time with family and friends. Sarah’s love of adventure, learning, and play extends into her therapy sessions, where she infuses creativity, playfulness, and connection to make therapy engaging and enjoyable for her kiddos! Amanda Fordham Administration Coordinator Amanda Fordham Administration Coordinator Mandy has extensive experience spanning nearly two decades in the healthcare industry, including 10 years nursing. She has always enjoyed caring for those around her with compassion and has a genuine enthusiasm for helping others. Mandy is very excited to now be part of the NAPA family and loves getting to know the amazing children and their families. Outside of work Mandy is kept busy by her two energetic boys, and enjoys visiting family, going to theme parks, and spending time down the coast. Mandy has a passion for artistic pursuits and finds her utmost joy and fulfillment when painting, whether it’s being creative or even painting her house. One day she dreams of painting a mural. Francois Chaperon Physiotherapist Francois Chaperon Physiotherapist François decided to become a physiotherapist because he always wanted to help people without being stuck at a desk. After starting his career in private practice in 2015, François worked in the private sector for a few years while also doing some weekend netball coverage. After alternating work and travel for a few years, François came back to Australia in 2020 and moved into the aged care sector. When an opportunity to move into paediatrics came up, François jumped at the opportunity and has been working with children ever since. He loves the fun and high energy aspect of working with children, while also making a tangible difference and helping the children to achieve their goals. When not working, François is usually out and about in the sunshine when the weather is nice, or binge watching shows and crocheting when it gets too cold. Alice Bishay Occupational Therapy Supervisor Alice Bishay Occupational Therapy Supervisor BA Occupational Therapy, University of Sydney Alice chose to become an Occupational Therapist because she always wanted to work in a profession that contributes to her community and wouldn’t keep her behind a desk. She loves working in the field of paediatric disability, working with clients who are imaginative, spirited and wonderfully unique. Alice loves that she can learn something new every day when working with kids with different abilities and is especially passionate about making strong, collaborative connections with the children and their families. Alice has extensive experience working with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Intellectual Disabilities and Sensory Processing Disorder. When she is not at work, Alice is usually outdoors; at the beach, playing netball or bushwalking with friends. She loves baking and has a Diploma of Floristry which keeps her busy on the weekends. She loves travel and can spend hours reading travel guides and planning her future holidays. Rosalinda Garcia Chief Programs Officer Rosalinda Garcia Chief Programs Officer A South Bay resident and parent of three adult children, Rosalinda’s career in leadership began as a local business owner supporting the food service industry for over 15 years. A parent, mentor, advocate, and leader, her 20+ year journey into the developmental disabilities world was first ignited by her quest to support her neurodiverse son. Her drive to guide and mentor others fueled her mission and career transition to support the disabled community. Rosalinda has been employed professionally for ten years as Chief Programs Officer of a non-profit pediatric clinic. She brings several years of experience having supported the execution of various projects related to pediatric therapy services. Blending her passion and professional mission, she has a deep desire to support and empower employees with daily challenges and help in the formation of new services. Rosalinda is intentional in seeking opportunities to collaborate with parents and staff to best support the needs of our clients. Kelsey Treaster Physical Therapist Kelsey Treaster Physical Therapist Bio coming soon! Sydney Howard Speech Language Pathologist Sydney Howard Speech Language Pathologist Sydney is a Speech-Language Pathologist who recently relocated to Denver from South Florida. She attended the University of Florida for both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Communication Sciences and Disorders. When Sydney was a young child, she had a language delay. This experience led to her dream of becoming an SLP in the hopes that she could impact other children’s lives in the same way her speech therapist impacted her life. During graduate school, her passion for working with medically complex children grew while working with a wide range of pediatric patients in outpatient clinics and acute care hospitals. It was through this experience that she developed a special interest in working with patients who use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices as well as pediatric feeding disorders. In her free time, Sydney enjoys watching sports (Go Gators!), playing with her rescue dog, and spending time outdoors. She is excited to help kids reach their full potential with the NAPA Center utilizing evidence-based therapies tailored to the patient’s needs. Brendan LaScala Occupational Therapist Brendan LaScala Occupational Therapist While Brendan was completing his Bachelor’s degree at Wake Forest University, he found out about his long-lost relatives, Bryan, Cody, and Lynette. He was very interested in occupational therapy and working with children before spending a summer at NAPA in 2018 as an intern. Afterward, he pursued his Doctoral degree at the University of Southern California and decided to rejoin the NAPA family. His experience living internationally has helped him develop a passion for listening to people’s stories and looks forward to connecting with children and families that make up the NAPA community. Brendan loves to cook and travel. Catch him if you can on a trail run! Jocara Pape Marketing Coordinator Jocara Pape Marketing Coordinator Jocara graduated from Colorado State University and is a proud CSU Ram! She enjoys spending her free time reading, spending time with friends, and exploring the beautiful Colorado outdoors! Jocara is passionate about helping others, which is why The NAPA Center stood out to her. Although she doesn’t have traditional experience in the healthcare field, she is excited to use her marketing skills to help the NAPA team, and connect with the families and community of the NAPA Center. She greatly values the NAPA mission of creating a community of hope. Anna Schuermann Physical Therapist Anna Schuermann Physical Therapist Anna went to Marquette University for undergraduate and received her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science. She continued at Marquette and received her Doctorate in Physical Therapy. Anna’s love and excitement for pediatric physical therapy started when volunteering at a summer camp for kids with cerebral palsy in high school. She enjoyed watching and learning from the therapist leading the camp and helping the children achieve their goals! In physical therapy school, Anna was fortunate to have a clinical in outpatient pediatrics which confirmed her love for pediatric physical therapy. Anna is thrilled to work at NAPA Center and help children reach all their goals! Outside of work, Anna enjoys spending time with her friends and family. She loves to read, stay active, and spend time at the lakefront. Emily Elston Speech Language Pathologist Emily Elston Speech Language Pathologist Emily is passionate about connecting and working with children and their families in shared goals. She has a special interest in supporting families using family cantered practice and shared goals. Emily has a strong passion for Early Intervention and values the importance of working collaboratively with families and children to support them to achieve their goals. She has experience working with children with a range of needs and diagnoses including Autism Spectrum Disorder, Developmental Delay, Intellectual Disability and Cerebral Palsy. Emily has worked in Special Education Schools, Early Intervention, clinics, and home settings with children, their families and support teams. Emily always wanted to work within the allied health profession and Speech Pathology really called to her as she has always believed everyone has a right to communication and have their voice heard. She has always enjoyed connecting with people and getting to know each individual’s stories and passions. She has always enjoyed finding creative ways to make therapy fun and engaging by using children’s special interests, sensory preferences, and family routines. When not at work, Emily can be found chasing after her two energetic little boys, playing with cars and trucks, exploring new parks, spending time with family and friends and going on adventures. Kayla Epstein Patient Coordinator Kayla Epstein Patient Coordinator Kayla has enjoyed being around children most of her life. She grew up attending her mom’s speech therapy sessions and babysat some of those patients, which led to her discovering her love for helping children. She thrives in an environment where she is able to interact with children and their families, and loves working behind the scenes ensuring everyone’s needs are met. When Kayla is not at her desk, you can usually find her hanging out with her cat, playing a board game, or listening to a new true crime podcast. Elena Spriet Occupational Therapist Elena Spriet Occupational Therapist One of the many things Ellie loves about Occupational Therapy is that every family, client, and therapist has a unique story about what brought them to OT. Ellie was drawn to the field as it had ties to pediatrics, healthcare, and an emphasis on helping others in a somewhat “non-traditional” way in comparison to a nurse, teacher, or psychologist. Ellie graduated with her BA in Psychology from Webster University Leiden (the Netherlands) and went on to get her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy at Creighton University (Omaha, NE) after spending a gap year as a paraprofessional in a DC area school only for kids with autism. Since graduating from OT school, Ellie has worked in private practice, inpatient adults, outpatient peds, inpatient peds, and early intervention. Ellie is especially passionate about neuro populations as well as accessibility and equity for those with disabilities. Still new to the area, when not at NAPA, Ellie can be found exploring the great outdoors and all New England has to offer. Anna-Marie Mott Speech Therapy Manager Anna-Marie Mott Speech Therapy Manager Bachelor of Speech Pathology (Honours I), The University of Queensland Anna-Marie knew that she wanted to become a Speech Pathologist from a high school work experience where she was amazed by the improvement observed in a speech pathology session. Through University and career experience, Anna-Marie has developed strong clinical skills that support her in her areas of interest of Alternative and Augmentative Communication, early language development and social/pragmatic skills. Through working in paediatrics in a regional private practice, as well as having experience working overseas in London, Anna-Marie enjoys working closely with her clients and their families to attain their goals. Time away from work consists of playing sport and walking her family dog, Happi. Marisa Quested Operations Manager - NAPA Australia Marisa Quested Operations Manager - NAPA Australia With over 11 years experience working with a disability funding body and being a part of making a positive difference to the lives of people living with a permanent disability, Marisa brings with her an enormous level of passion driven from seeing the change made in the lives of her clients. Marisa is very excited to be a part of this experience with NAPA families. When Marisa isn’t working she is kept busy exploring the world with her husband Adam, and making memories with their children, Callum, Charlotte and Isaac. Marisa loves all things related to good food, whether this is cooking up a gourmet meal for family and friends or searching for the next gastronomic experience across Sydney. Kat Miller Physical Therapist Kat Miller Physical Therapist Katherine earned her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Daemen College in Amherst, NY just outside the City of Buffalo. She has experience working with all age groups and has worked in a variety of pediatric settings including school-based, outpatient clinics, and home care. Katherine has experience working with children with varying diagnoses including Hypoplastic left heart syndrome, Down Syndrome, Muscular Dystrophy, Cerebral Palsy, Austism Spectrum Disorder, Hydrocephaly, Plagiocephaly, Seizure disorders, Genetic disorders, Orthopedic conditions, and other gross motor/developmental delay abnormalities. Katherine works hard to make therapy fun and to support each of her patients and families to provide the best quality of life possible. Outside of work she loves to spend her time with friends and family or participating in yoga classes and run club. She also loves to travel, watch and play sports, read, and knit! She is an avid animal lover and has 5 pets of her own. Shatavia (Shay) McBride Patient Coordinator Shatavia (Shay) McBride Patient Coordinator BS Kinesiology, the University of Texas at San Antonio Shatavia always knew that she wanted to pursue a career helping children. Being able to help children feel better, connect with their families, and provide them with the appropriate resources needed to improve their health is what drew her toward the field. When the opportunity to do just that with NAPA came up, she just knew it would be a perfect fit for her. In her free time, you can find Shatavia playing tennis, watching YouTube, and playing with her crazy kitten, Winter. She is new to the Austin area and is excited to see what the city has to offer. Erika Hannig-Cross Human Resources Generalist Erika Hannig-Cross Human Resources Generalist MBA, University of Colorado – Erika’s journey in the field of HR began in undergrad when she realized the profound impact she could make by supporting and nurturing the growth of talented individuals. With a strong belief in creating positive work environments, Erika finds great joy in building lasting partnerships and strong relationships. She is thrilled at the opportunity to join NAPA Center as an HR Generalist and contribute to the organization’s mission of helping children reach their maximum potential. When she’s not working, you’ll most likely find Erika curled up with a good book, immersing herself in different worlds and perspectives or getting outdoors and exploring! Shabana Strauss Administration Coordinator Shabana Strauss Administration Coordinator Shabana completed her Bachelors degree in Psychology, English Literature and Law and loves to study and learn new things. She adores travelling and has spent time living in several different countries learning different customs and values. As a taphophile and lover of art she especially enjoys visiting ossuaries, art and natural history museums and constantly marveling at the architectural wonders of every city she’s been to. A voracious reader, she’s thrilled to finally live in a home with a dedicated library that can house up to 3000 books and vows to fill up her shelves as soon as she is able. A fervent fibre enthusiast, she taught herself garment construction, crochet and knitting and her hands are constantly busy making garments for herself and her loved ones. Kate Silvia Physical Therapist Kate Silvia Physical Therapist Kate is originally from Massachusetts and received both her Bachelor’s and Doctorate degrees in Physical Therapy from Northeastern University. Kate found her passion for working with kids at a young age, while working at a local summer camp teaching swim lessons. Kate also worked at adaptive bike and sport camps throughout college in Boston. She volunteered in Ecuador assisting with wheelchair repairs for children with disabilities. When Kate is not at the office, she can be found skiing with friends, eating every dessert (or donut) in sight, and trying out new recipes. Kate is excited to join the NAPA Denver team to help kids grow and learn so they can meet their goals. Sarah Cottone Occupational Therapist Sarah Cottone Occupational Therapist Sarah dedicated herself to the field of Occupational Therapy because of her passion and drive to impact the well-being and lives of children and families, making NAPA Center the perfect home to jumpstart her career! Born and raised in Roswell, Georgia, Sarah is a proud University of Georgia alum and earned her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences, St. Augustine, Florida campus, in 2023. Throughout her training, Sarah has gained experience working with infants and children with diverse developmental, neurological, emotional, physical, and sensory needs, including Autism Spectrum, Down syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, and Sensory Processing, among other neurological conditions. In addition to her knowledge of Occupational Therapy, Sarah became a Reiki (Usui Method) practitioner in 2023. She enjoys incorporating Reiki to promote relaxation, emotional regulation, and overall well-being, enhancing the therapeutic experience for children and families. Outside of NAPA Center, you can find Sarah at a yoga class, baking something sweet, or exploring Austin with her Goldendoodle, Lady! Silvia Hanna Administration Manager Silvia Hanna Administration Manager Silvia had her Bachelor degree in tourism management and extended her knowledge by studying business administration in Australia. She constantly studies different courses for self-development as she believes it’s important to always continue to grow and learn. She is friendly, approachable, and compassionate. She volunteers in activities within her community which involves dealing with people who have disabilities from different ages which gave her a wide experience in how to deal and communicate with people considering their different needs. She is excited about being a part of the NAPA team where she can be a witness of so many wonderful moments seeing beautiful unique kids succeed in reaching their individual goals from their very little first step. When Silvia is not busy at Napa, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, taking her dog for a walk, she also loves drawing, doing outdoor activities. Silvia loves travelling as she enjoys learning more about the different cultures, she’s already been to a few different cities around the world and she can’t wait to tick more cities off her list. Zoraida Khamsehzadeh Occupational Therapist Zoraida Khamsehzadeh Occupational Therapist Masters of Occupational Therapy, University of Sydney Zoraida is a dedicated and enthusiastic Occupational Therapist, that has worked and volunteered in a variety of settings including wildlife rehabilitation and community research. Zoraida’s greatest passion is exploring the world and she was even lucky enough to volunteer with children in the Dominican Republic. Zoraida came to Sydney from the USA to study her Masters in Occupational therapy in 2016. Having quickly fallen in love with Sydney and tiramisu gelato from Messina, she hasn’t looked back since. Zoraida Ioves seeing kids fulfill their potential and this drives her to go the extra mile whenever possible. Zoraida started off by volunteering at NAPA. She knew straight away that NAPA’s unique approach truly makes a difference in people’s lives and wanted to be a part of the team. When not in the NAPA centre, Zoraida can be found rock climbing, hiking, attempting beach volleyball, or playing laser tag. Being half Iranian and half Mexican, she also enjoys cooking a wide variety of dishes! Mary Kate Seville Occupational Therapist Mary Kate Seville Occupational Therapist Mary Kate graduated from Boston University with a Bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Studies and a Master’s of Science in Occupational Therapy. Before joining NAPA, Mary Kate worked at a specialized school in New York City for children with brain based disorders and with an early intervention agency. Mary Kate is a kid at heart and connects best with children through playing and finding what motivates them. A South Jersey native, you can find Mary Kate exploring the west coast on the weekends with her Pomeranian named Boston. Amy Captain Occupational Therapist Amy Captain Occupational Therapist Amy holds a Masters in Occupational Therapy from University of Essex and a Masters in Psychology from Brunel University London. Amy fell in love with occupational therapy due to its holistic focus, tendering to an individual’s complete wellbeing; the physical, the mental, the cognitive, and the social. After working on a therapy with focus on social-emotional regulation as well as a summer magic camp for children with hemiplegia using bimanual therapy; Amy knew her future career involved working in pediatrics. She has a goal to not only make every session as productive as possible but to be fun aswell!Amy loves to travel and has lived in multiple countries around the world including; The UK, Saudi Arabia, USA, Costa Rica, and Canada. In her free time she loves the outdoors, exploring new restaurants and yoga. Madelyn Hyzak Speech Language Pathologist Madelyn Hyzak Speech Language Pathologist MS Communication Disorders, Texas State University Madelyn discovered her love for speech-language pathology at an early age, after seeing the positive impact speech therapy had on her younger brother. Madelyn grew up in Houston, TX and received her bachelor’s degree from The University of Texas at Austin (Hook ‘em!) and her master’s degree from Texas State University. She enjoys working with children who have a variety of needs, especially within the areas of language and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). She loves working with children and their families to find ways to facilitate communication through play-based therapy. In her spare time, Madelyn loves spending time with family and friends, traveling, and going on walks all around Austin! Julia Grigoruta Therapy Aide Julia Grigoruta Therapy Aide Julia is currently studying a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy at Griffith University. She is passionate about helping others and is excited to be working at NAPA as she is interested in a career within a paediatric setting. When Julia isn’t at NAPA, you can find her at the gym, spending time with her dog or going on adventures with her family and friends. Katherine Kroeger Occupational Therapist Katherine Kroeger Occupational Therapist Katherine has known from a young age that she wanted to support children and their families – she could always be found “caring” for her baby dolls in-hand throughout childhood, and nannied all through graduate school. Katherine earned her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy degree from MGH Institute of Health Professions in 2020, and has clinical experience in outpatient pediatrics and in acute pediatric and adolescent psychiatry. During graduate school, Katherine contributed to research examining the effects of robot-assisted therapy on functional performance for children with hemiparesis. When Katherine discovered NAPA, she instantly knew that NAPA’s passion for innovative therapy approaches and techniques was equivalent to that of her own. Katherine is ecstatic to help her clients at NAPA discover and achieve their full potential. Outside of the office, Katherine enjoys traveling and exploring new neighborhoods, taking spin classes, hiking or going for long walks, and spending time with friends and family. Kayla Serebro Occupational Therapist Kayla Serebro Occupational Therapist Kayla completed her Bachelor’s degree at Australian Catholic University, where she developed a strong foundation in occupational therapy and a passion for supporting children and families. From a young age, Kayla worked in various settings with children and discovered her calling through volunteering at a disability organization in high school. This experience solidified her desire to make a meaningful difference by helping children achieve their goals and reach their full potential. With over eight years of experience as a support worker, Kayla has worked with a diverse range of families, gaining invaluable insights and skills that shape her compassionate and client-centred approach to therapy. When Kayla is not at the NAPA Centre, you’ll find her shopping, enjoying a musical, or spending quality time with her family and friends. Annika Hedlund Physiotherapist Annika Hedlund Physiotherapist Annika attended Rhodes College in Memphis, TN for undergrad and played lacrosse while completing her BS in Biology. She graduated in May 2022 from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center with a doctorate of physical therapy. She completed a school clinical with NAPA Center Austin and absolutely loved it. “I am beyond excited to now be officially starting my PT career at NAPA Center Austin as well! I knew I wanted to work with kids after volunteering at a therapeutic riding center in TN during PT school. I am looking forward to developing strong relationships with the kiddos and families at NAPA and celebrating their accomplishments!” Annika plans to spend my time exploring Austin finding the best BBQ place (hopefully with a new dog by her side) and beating the heat out on the water! Byron Broderick Physical Therapist Assistant Byron Broderick Physical Therapist Assistant In high school, Byron tore his rotator cuff and had to undergo surgery in order to repair it. During his recovery, he was exposed to the world of physical therapy for the first time. The next school year, he was able to take an Anatomy & Physiology class that further fueled his interest in the human body and how it works. After majoring in Biology with a focus on Exercise Science, Byron obtained his Physical Therapist Assistant license. While he was not able to work with kids during his clinical rotations, he always knew the pediatric setting is where he was meant to be. Prior to joining NAPA, Byron worked at a intensive therapeutic clinic in Chicago, where he worked with preschool and kindergarten-aged children with common diagnoses such as Autism, Down Syndrome, and Cerebral Palsy. Hannah Tufts Physical Therapist Hannah Tufts Physical Therapist Hannah has always known she would be a pediatric physical therapist; her Mom was one too, so you could say it runs in her blood! Hannah studied kinesiology and neuroscience at William & Mary before receiving her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Duke (go Blue Devils!). During her final clinical rotation, Hannah spent 12 weeks at NAPA LA and loved every aspect of “NAPA magic,” but specifically the ability to build connections. She traded in the hustle and bustle (and crazy traffic) of LA to enjoy the sunshine and outdoor activities in Denver. Hannah grew up a Navy brat, so she is an expert at meeting new friends and quickly learning what motivates them. When not working with superstar NAPA kids, she enjoys adventuring with friends, reading, discovering new libraries/coffee shops, and staying active. Claire Lashinger Physical Therapist Claire Lashinger Physical Therapist Claire earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from New York University in 2021. She is passionate about putting smiles on children’s faces as they learn new mobility skills and ways of being independent. She also enjoys working closely with parents and caregivers to support families along their unique journeys. Outside of NAPA, Claire loves being active and spending time in the gym or taking a fitness class. She also likes tackling a challenging recipe in the kitchen, working on a puzzle, and reading way too many books at the same time. Maddy Beard Physiotherapist Maddy Beard Physiotherapist Bachelor of Physiotherapy, Australian Catholic University Madeleine, more commonly known as Maddy, is an enthusiastic and dedicated physiotherapist. Maddy first established her passion for pediatric physiotherapy during a student placement in her final year of university. After establishing her broad skill set at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney in areas from intensive care to musculoskeletal physiotherapy, Maddy is thrilled to be part of the team at NAPA and dedicate herself to this exciting area of practice. Maddy has always enjoyed working with kids as she spent many years coaching youth sports teams from beginners to Representative levels. She believes in empowering children and their families to allow each child to reach their highest potential and achieve their goals. In her spare time, you will find Maddy catching up with friends, visiting her sister in Canberra, playing golf, or attempting and most likely failing a new recipe. Rosa (Rosie) Garcia Patient Coordinator Rosa (Rosie) Garcia Patient Coordinator Rosie is always one to put others in need first. She loves children and helping others. That’s what let to her career in Pediatrics in 2019. Her love for helping and assisting those in the community is what drives and gives her great pleasure doing. Rosie loves putting a smile on everyone’s face and admires the one-on-one patient interactions she encounters. Outside of work, Rosie is a wife & a mother of three incredible children- residing in the Skokie area. When she has time for herself, she enjoys going out to play Bingo, beating the next level of Candy Crush, and sneaking in a nap when she can. Phuong Do Speech Language Pathologist Phuong Do Speech Language Pathologist Phuong is a warm and friendly Speech Pathologist who is passionate about helping children communicate more confidently. Her passion for supporting others to express themselves and connect meaningfully inspired her to pursue speech pathology. Phuong enjoys working closely with families to make therapy practical, supportive, and tailored to each person’s needs.She has a special interest in Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and early language development, and strives to provide respectful, evidence-informed support that celebrates each person’s unique way of communicating. Phuong values collaboration with other professionals and believes that building trust and genuine relationships is key to making meaningful progress in therapy. Outside of work, she loves trying new restaurants with friends, baking, and spending time at the beach. Haley Stakutis Patient Coordinator Haley Stakutis Patient Coordinator Haley graduated Magna Cum Laude from Hobart and William Smith Colleges in upstate New York, where she received a bachelors degree in Psychology. She is excited to get settled back in in the Boston area. As a recent grad with a diverse background, she has always loved working with children and hopes to continue in the future. Kari Apple General Manager, NAPA Denver Kari Apple General Manager, NAPA Denver Kari is a board-certified behavior analyst with a Masters in Early Childhood Special Education. Oh yeah, and did we mention she is also a NAPA mom!? Working with children who have developmental disabilities since 2006, Kari is a mother of three (Madison, Wilson, and Miles) who has firsthand experience traveling for intensive therapy. On top of managing her trio, this powerhouse started an ABA company in Tennessee, making her a perfect fit for NAPA. Stephanie Alexander Speech Language Pathologist Stephanie Alexander Speech Language Pathologist M.S. Speech Language Pathology, Texas Woman’s University Stephanie Alexander is a dedicated Speech-Language Pathologist with a passion for enhancing communication and enriching lives. She earned her Masters from Texas Woman’s University and holds the Certificate of Clinical Competence. With 5 years of clinical and professional experience, Stephanie specializes in feeding and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). Stephanie’s approach to therapy is characterized by child-led strategies and a strong emphasis on caregiver collaboration and education. She believes in empowering both children and their families to achieve communication milestones. Delaney Zeller Physical Therapist Delaney Zeller Physical Therapist Delaney is originally from Baltimore, Maryland, and loves spending time hiking, being by the ocean, or cheering on the Baltimore Ravens. She earned both her Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Physiology and her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from West Virginia University. Delaney has always been passionate about neurologic rehabilitation and brings experience from a variety of pediatric settings. For the past four years, she has worked as a home health therapist in the Denver metro area, helping children and families thrive in their everyday environments. She’s now thrilled to be starting her dream job at NAPA and looks forward to making a difference in the lives of the kids and families she serves. Madalyn Peterson Occupational Therapist Madalyn Peterson Occupational Therapist Maddy’s joy comes from helping those around her live life to the fullest. This passion led her to occupational therapy where she could use her strengths in science and creativity to reach children and families’ goals. Maddy studied occupational science at the University of Southern California before heading east to get her doctorate in occupational therapy from Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia. During a stint in New York City, she worked in school and clinic-based settings using an emphasis in sensory integration. Maddy is excited to work at NAPA and continue her passion in interdisciplinary collaboration and lifelong learning. Finally back in her home state, Maddy can be found out in the sunshine walking, running, painting, or taking a class in a new sport or hobby. Joni Tang Physical Therapist Joni Tang Physical Therapist Graduated from Keele University in 2023 with an MSc in Physiotherapy and Hong Kong University of Science and Technology with BSc in Life Science. Joni gained valuable experience working as a rotational physiotherapist within the NHS after graduation, where she developed a strong interest in paediatrics. Witnessing the profound impact that therapies can have on children and their families sparked a deep passion for helping young patients achieve better outcomes and improving their quality of life. Known for being cheerful and energetic, Joni brings a positive atmosphere to every interaction—whether through a smile you can see or laughter you can hear, she is dedicated to making a difference with warmth and enthusiasm. Outside of work, Joni is an experienced fencer and a beginner crocheter. While she may not be a fan of cars, she has a deep love for watching Formula 1 races. Daniel Coppock Clinic Manager - Brisbane Daniel Coppock Clinic Manager - Brisbane Daniel has been part of the NAPA family since 2017 bringing his son Noah to the Sydney, Melbourne and LA clinics. After spending over 20 years in retail, Daniel saw the opportunity to be part of the NAPA Brisbane opening team and couldn’t pass it up. Daniel truly believes that the NAPA team not only has first class therapists, but also an infectious and positive team culture. Seeing the incredible progress his son Noah has achieved along his NAPA journey, he is looking forward to seeing the same results for Queensland (and interstate/overseas travelling) families. Daniel relocated to the Gold Coast in January 2022 from Melbourne with his son Noah and wife Connie. Daniel enjoys the year-round Queensland sunshine by being outdoors as often as possible, particularly at the beach with the family and being a frequent visitor to the theme parks! Daniel loves travelling and is also a passionate Liverpool fan. Caroline Klein Occupational Therapist Caroline Klein Occupational Therapist Caroline was born and raised in Austin, TX. After attending the University of Arizona and earning a degree in Family Studies and Human Development, she graduated from the University of Southern California with a doctorate in occupational therapy. Caroline was drawn to NAPA due to her passion for working with children and their families to address their physical and developmental needs. In her spare time Caroline enjoys hiking, snowboarding, watching her favorite Disney movies and traveling to new places. You can also find her exploring the wonders of Austin’s food truck scene! Dean Fontbin Occupational Therapist Dean Fontbin Occupational Therapist Dean graduated with a Bachelor of Science (Honours) from Monash University in 2017. While studying, he worked as a swim teacher where he found his passion for working with children. He also found that he was driven by the need to help others unlock their full potential, oftentimes potential that they may not have realised themselves. This led him to pursue his Masters of Occupational Therapy from Swinburne University, which he completed in 2021. He understands that when working with a child you are really working with the whole community that engages with the child as well, so upskilling and accommodating for everyone involved is essential to him. When he is not rolling on the floor with kids in the clinic, Dean enjoys rolling on the mats doing Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, playing video games, watching anime, and cooking. Sydney Tymula Speech Language Pathologist Sydney Tymula Speech Language Pathologist Sydney is a speech-language pathologist who specializes in working with pediatric populations, with a particular interest in pediatric feeding and swallowing disorders. Originally from Upstate New York, Sydney holds a Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of South Dakota and is certified by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). Her clinical experience spans a range of settings, including pediatric private practice, and adult rehabilitative services, where she developed a strong foundation in communication and swallowing therapy across the lifespan. Guided by a child-led approach and play based therapeutic approach, Sydney strives to follow each child’s interests and pace to create a safe, engaging environment for growth. Her professional interests include infant and toddler language acquisition, pediatric language disorders, articulation and phonological disorders, developmental delays, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and feeding and swallowing disorders. Sydney is passionate about empowering families and helping children develop the skills they need to thrive in everyday life and her goal is always to make therapy functional, engaging, and collaborative. Outside of NAPA, Sydney enjoys trying new restaurants and spending time with family and friends. Samantha Buchert Speech Language Pathologist Samantha Buchert Speech Language Pathologist Samantha attended Temple University in Philadelphia where she obtained her MA in Speech, Language and Hearing Science. She has a clinical background of working in a specialized school for children with cerebral palsy. During this role, she received extensive training in pediatric feeding/swallowing disorders, AAC, and assistive technology. Samantha is greatly passionate about working with children with multiple disabilities and complex communication needs. She has experience in feature matching and collaborating with related disciplines in order to establish a child’s most appropriate and valuable communication system. Outside of work, you can find her running, doing yoga, and trying new restaurants around Boston! Maddie Favetto Occupational Therapy Manager Maddie Favetto Occupational Therapy Manager Maddie graduated from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences, Austin campus, in 2021 with a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy. Prior to joining the NAPA team, she got a lot of great experience as an OT at Texas Neuro and as an ABA in Ohio, where she grew up. Go Buckeyes! Feel free to chat her up about any and all sports, but her true love is volleyball, which she played all throughout high school. When she’s not at NAPA, she loves being with friends, trying new foods, and hiking with her dog, Queso. Madison Adair Occupational Therapist Madison Adair Occupational Therapist Madison Adair, OTR/L, is a two-time graduate of Grand Valley State University in Grand Rapids, Michigan (Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science- ‘23, Master of Science in Occupational Therapy- ‘25). During her final clinical rotation, Madison spent 12 weeks at NAPA Denver where she fell in love with the NAPA community– a place where hard work is fueled by smiles, laughs, and high-fives. Madison is passionate about empowering children to reach their full potential and promote their participation in daily life. She is thrilled to officially return to the clinic as part of the team! Originally from Michigan, Madison has swapped the Great Lakes for the Rockies and is learning to trade lake days for mountain hikes! Outside of NAPA, Madison enjoys spending time with her family and friends, adventuring, staying active, and playing board/card games. Trista Chan Physiotherapist Trista Chan Physiotherapist Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours) at the University of Queensland Trista’s genuine passion for working with children began as a figure skating coach, where she loved helping kids build confidence and develop skills. Her honours research aimed at improving participation for children with cerebral palsy and volunteer experiences at preschool HABIT-ILE camps, sparked her commitment to participation-based and goal-oriented approaches, and interests in intensive and early childhood interventions. Trista values partnering with children and their families and is dedicated to making therapy enjoyable, empowering, and meaningful for every child. Originally from Hong Kong, Trista is fluent in English, Cantonese, and Mandarin, and delights in connecting with families from diverse cultural backgrounds. Outside of NAPA, she stays active with bouldering and badminton, and loves spending time outdoors with her golden retriever, Ryleigh, as well as going on food adventures with friends. Kelsie Aloi Speech Language Pathologist Kelsie Aloi Speech Language Pathologist Kelsie Aloi is a dedicated Speech-Language Pathologist with a Master’s degree from the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. She discovered her passion for working with children with complex communication and feeding needs during her graduate externship at the NAPA Center in Denver, which ultimately led her to join the NAPA Center team full time. Kelsie’s areas of special interest include, but aren’t limited to, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), feeding and swallowing disorders, and early language development. She is committed to helping children find their voices and thrive through individualized, evidence-based therapy. Outside of the clinic, Kelsie enjoys golfing, running, and exploring new restaurants. Her warm, compassionate approach and strong clinical skills make her a valued member of every family’s support team. Annika Stanton Physiotherapist Annika Stanton Physiotherapist Doctor of Physiotherapy – Macquarie University (2024), Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) with Bachelor of Human Sciences (Human Movement) – Macquarie University (2020). Annika is an enthusiastic physiotherapist who is dedicated to helping people achieve their goals – both big and small! Annika has had lots of experience working with children – in which she has worked as a dance/acrobatics teacher, AFL sports trainer, a carer, an assistant teacher for a school-readiness program. In her final year of her postgraduate program, Annika had the opportunity to undertake a five-week clinical placement at a paediatric private practice, which helped to solidify her passion for paediatrics! After finishing her university studies, Annika worked at a private practice clinic before joining the NAPA team. Outside of NAPA, Annika enjoys attending pilates classes, chilling at the beach, going on walks and runs, spending time with family and friends, and finding the best food and coffee spots in Sydney. Annika enjoys living an active lifestyle, and is always down to try new sports and hobbies! Annika promises to deliver the best possible family-centred and patient-centred care to all clients, while bringing “big-kid energy” to all her consults! Erica Filipovits Speech Therapy Manager Erica Filipovits Speech Therapy Manager M.S. Speech-Language Pathology, Loyola University Maryland Erica’s interest in speech language pathology stems from her passion for providing everyone with the ability to communicate. Erica has always loved working with the pediatric population and uses her endless energy to always make therapy fun. As a speech therapist, she loves to find unique ways to help children build connections with others through communication. Her clinical interests include AAC, intervention with children with complex communication needs, and motor speech disorders. Erica loves to go to run, read, spend time with her friends and family, and travel. Emily Reynolds Therapy Aide Emily Reynolds Therapy Aide Emily completed her Doctor of Physiotherapy at Monash University. During her studies, she elected to complete a placement at NAPA Centre Melbourne and immediately knew it was where she belonged. Her time at NAPA confirmed her passion for helping children and families reach their goals by embracing their unique needs, creating a fun and supportive environment, and using creativity and problem-solving to make therapy meaningful. She brings optimism and warmth to every session and loves being part of each child’s journey as they discover what they’re capable of.When she’s not at NAPA, you’ll find Emily in the mountains or by the ocean. She loves spending time with family and friends and is always on the hunt for a yummy new brunch spot to try. Emily is a big Harry Potter fan, and enjoys winding down with a nice cup of tea (English brekky, of course) and doing puzzles. Clarissa Oosthuizen Speech Language Pathologist Clarissa Oosthuizen Speech Language Pathologist Bachelor in Speech-Language and Hearing Therapy, The University of Stellenbosch, South Africa Introducing Clarissa, a dedicated speech language pathologist who recently made the exciting leap from South Africa to Melbourne, Australia. With a heart full of passion for empowering children to reach their full potential, Clarissa endeavours to provide holistic, evidence based and family-centred therapy. Her passion for Speech Pathology and paediatrics, stems from a deep understanding of the importance of effective communication in a child’s developmental journey. She finds joy in helping children and families reach their individual goals and celebrating each milestone they achieve along the way. Clarissa’s areas of interest include early intervention, social communication difficulties, phonological awareness, AAC, and feeding/swallowing disorders. Clarissa enjoys connecting with family and friends, spending time exploring the outdoors, and learning new things. She also enjoys exploring the city’s diverse culinary scene, reading a good book and doing arts and crafts. Nicole Martin Early Intervention Assistant Nicole Martin Early Intervention Assistant Nicole is currently pursuing her degree at El Camino College. Her journey into working with children began when she became an aide for a preschool program, where she found joy in contributing to the children’s growth and celebrating their milestones. With years of experience as an instructional aide, Nicole is passionate about expanding her knowledge and skills to provide the best support possible for children. Her personal connection to NAPA, through witnessing the positive impact it had on her little cousin, deepened her dedication to the field and her desire to make a difference in the lives of families. When Nicole isn’t at NAPA, you can find her exploring new coffee shops, reading the Bible, or enjoying a peaceful sunset. Julian Batula General Manager Julian Batula General Manager Julian is a graduate of Dominican University, where he obtained a BS in Biology. When deciding what he wanted to do after college, he knew he would find the most joy through acts of service. Julian’s career ambition is simple: obtain roles that allow you to help improve the lives of the individuals you serve. For almost a decade Julian was a part of the RTA ADA Paratransit eligibility program, helping members of the ADA community obtain accessible curb to curb transportation. With 3 plus years of supervisory experience, and 10 plus years of training experience, Julian was ready to step into a greater leadership role. At NAPA Julian has found the perfect balance. Having the privilege of leading a team of like-minded individuals, while continuing to serve a historically underserved community. Julian finds great joy in being able to impact children and their families lives for the better each and every day, while collaborating with others who strive to do the same. Amy Harrison Occupational Therapist Amy Harrison Occupational Therapist Amy completed her BSc degree in Occupational Therapy from Brunel University, after a personality quiz suggested her natural fit for the field. Her years of working with children in dance and football have supported her skills to connect and inspire. Amy is always seeking new experiences and challenges. Outside of work you will find her in a dance class or reading. Previously volunteering for NAPA was a pivotal moment, where she instantly knew this is where she needed to be. Kerri Louati Feeding Intensive Program Dietitian Kerri Louati Feeding Intensive Program Dietitian NAPA is excited to introduce our new partnered dietician Kerri Louati MS, RD, LDN, CDE who will be supporting our Intensive Feeding Program as well as our traditional weekly patients in our US based clinics. Kerri is a registered dietitian with a background in integrative and functional medicine. She focuses on addressing the root causes of chronic health issues and implementing a Nutrient and Food-as-Medicine approach in her protocols. Professionally, Kerri has extensive experience working with all types of patients but specializes in the pediatric population with a focus on gut-related disorders, G-tube feeding, and complex medical cases. Kerri is the founder of Foodicinal LLC, a nutrition practice built on the philosophy that food-is-medicinal. She practices evidence-based medicine, using the most up-to-date research in her treatment plans. Personally, Kerri also has extensive experience with pediatrics and G-tube feedings with her twin micro-preemies with G-tubes. She is passionate about implementing a homemade blenderized diet, as she has seen its significant benefits in her children and her patients, which is also manifested in the medical literature. Having gone through it herself, Kerri understands the challenges and difficulties many families go through when their children have health and feeding issues. Due to her background, she practices with a unique synergy of professional and personal experience. Rylee Parlane Therapy Aide Rylee Parlane Therapy Aide University of Southern Queensland Rylee is currently in her first year of studying a Bachelor of Speech Pathology at The University of Southern Queensland. She has a certificate 3 in healthcare assistance and completed this at Logan hospital while working in the ED department. She has always been passionate about working with children and wants to spread kindness, compassion and care to the children that she works with. In her free time, she surrounds herself with friends and family and enjoys going to concerts and on walks with an iced coffee in hand. Emily Herbert Speech Language Pathologist Emily Herbert Speech Language Pathologist Emily earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Sacred Heart University, where she also minored in Communication Sciences and Disorders. She went on to complete her Master’s in Communication Sciences and Disorders, gaining extensive clinical experience in the treatment of pediatric speech and language disorders, complex language delays, and the use of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) in both educational and private practice settings. Emily is passionate about collaborating with children and their families to support meaningful, lasting progress toward their goals. She is excited to bring her skills and enthusiasm to NAPA Center’s intensive therapy model. Outside of work, Emily enjoys spending time with family and friends and going to the beach, staying active and traveling. Jemma Lever Occupational Therapist Jemma Lever Occupational Therapist Bachelor of Occupational Therapy, Australian Catholic University. Jemma discovered her passion for working with children during her high school years, volunteering at camps for young children with disabilities. This experience inspired her to pursue a career in Occupational Therapy, particularly in paediatrics, where she was drawn to the excitement and variety of working with children – no day is ever the same. Whilst completing her degree, Jemma worked at a bakery where she mentored young adults with disabilities gaining further valuable hands-on experience in this field. Jemma is enthusiastic and compassionate with a strong belief in a family-centred approach, incorporating each child’s interests whilst focusing on their strengths to make therapy fun, engaging and meaningful. When Jemma is not at work you can find her playing netball, baking, spending time with friends, relaxing on the beach and walking her dog, Monty. Cheryl Holian Therapy Aide Cheryl Holian Therapy Aide Bachelor of Elementary Education, Cert IV Allied Health Assistance Cheryl grew up in the Philippines, close to the world famous Boracay Island. She has been actively involved in helping children throughout her whole career. She is the mother of 2 cheeky, young girls, 1 of whom has a rare condition called Pitt Hopkins syndrome, which has inspired her to work at NAPA and assist other kids in need. Outside of work Cheryl loves to cook, rollerskate and she can eat rice for breakfast, lunch and dinner! Alana Lacouture General Manager, NAPA Boston Alana Lacouture General Manager, NAPA Boston Alana is a Massachusetts girl, growing up in Central Mass, then studying out in Western Mass at University of Massachusetts Amherst where she obtained her undergraduate degree in Kinesiology & Psychology. Now she is excited to explore Eastern Mass working at NAPA Boston. She has always been passionate about the brain body connection and knew she wanted to pursue a career in the healthcare field. Alana loves caring for people, previously working as a home health aide and a physical therapy aide. Recently, she has taken enjoyment in working on the administrative side of healthcare. When Alana is not at work you can find her on the slopes snowboarding or at the beach soaking up the sun. Anna Gerze Occupational Therapist Anna Gerze Occupational Therapist Doctorate of Occupational Therapy, Creighton University Anna first knew she wanted to work with kids with developmental disabilities after working 2 summers at a camp for individuals with disabilities, Camp Barnabas. She absolutely fell in love! After receiving both her undergraduate degree and Doctorate of Occupational Therapy at Creighton University, Anna is happy to be back in her home state of Colorado! Prior to NAPA, Anna worked in school, outpatient and inpatient settings. She loves that NAPA is also passionate about telling kids and their families “Yes, you can!” after continuously hearing “No, you can’t!” Catch her outside of NAPA spending time with family/friends, cheering on the Broncos, reading, hiking, cooking, and puzzling! Danielle Paquin Occupational Therapist Danielle Paquin Occupational Therapist Danielle’s interest in working in pediatrics started with a summer job working at a therapeutic outdoor camp. After seeing first-hand the impact that accessibility and meaningful activities can have, Danielle was determined to find a way to make this her career. And OT ended up being the perfect fit. After receiving her undergraduate degrees in Occupational Studies and Psychology, she continued on to get her Master’s in Occupational Therapy all at Worcester State University. Prior to NAPA, Danielle worked in an outpatient clinic and in early intervention. Outside of the clinic, Danielle enjoys hiking and camping, going to yoga class, rock climbing, and going to concerts. Allison Travetto Occupational Therapist Allison Travetto Occupational Therapist Allison has always felt that she should do something she loves as her job every day- she found that in occupational therapy. She obtained her BA in Recreational Therapy from California State University, Long Beach, and her Doctorate of Occupational Therapy from Creighton University. Prior to becoming an OT, Allison was a recreational therapist in various settings including adaptive sports, psych, and neuro rehab. As she was leaving the Los Angeles area she was introduced to NAPA and admired their innovative research-based practices. Allison was able to volunteer at NAPA Denver a few years later and fell in love with their community. As a former water polo player and recreational therapist, Allison believes in play-based, client-centered practice. She is passionate about neuro-rehab and loves to bring silliness, smiles, and fun to every session. When Allison’s not at NAPA, you may find her hiking, playing sports, traveling, or cooking/baking yummy foods! Natasha Richardson Patient Coordinator Natasha Richardson Patient Coordinator Natasha is a friendly, engaging individual with a real passion for a career. Adaptable, enthusiastic, and highly motivated, she is always striving to contribute to the success of the organisation for which she is employed. Natasha has excellent interpersonal skills and possess a real strength in working both individually and as part of a team. Zak Moussa Physiotherapist Zak Moussa Physiotherapist BA of Physio – Cairo University Originally from Cairo – Egypt, Zak recently migrated to Australia to join the Napa family. Zak has a great ability to build special bonds with his paediatric clients which assist in achieving greater independence and quality of life goals of participants. Zak has over 10 years’ experience across the lifespan and experience in a range of setting including hospital, community and his own paediatric clinic. When Zak isn’t working, you’ll find him drinking an expresso, video calling his family in Egypt, exploring Melbourne and spending time with his partner Monique Khattar Occupational Therapy Supervisor Monique Khattar Occupational Therapy Supervisor Bachelor of Occupational Therapy, Western Sydney University Monique knew throughout her schooling that she wanted to pursue a career that would enable her to fulfill her passion of making a difference in the lives of children. She found this in the occupational therapy profession. During her studies, Monique was fortunate enough to have placement experience in a range of clinical areas which included mental health. She may be a familiar face as Monique had her 6-week university placement at the NAPA Centre, an experience that she has held onto since! She has had previous experience as an allied health assistant working mainly with children living with autism spectrum disorder. Monique comes from a Lebanese background and has grown up in a big amazing family, therefore she knows and values the importance of families in the lives of children. Monique is enthusiastic, vibrant and will make each interaction a fun and valuable one through integrating play in therapy. She is dedicated to constantly updating her knowledge through research and learning to ensure the best outcomes for your children! When Monique is not at the NAPA Centre, you will find her taking on a new outdoor adventure or spending some quality time with her family. Katie Moreno Marketing Manager Katie Moreno Marketing Manager Bio coming soon! Fiona Phillipps Administration Coordinator Fiona Phillipps Administration Coordinator Fiona has a diverse professional background, having worked in operations roles in the mining, financial and non for-profit industries. She lived overseas for many years in Japan and Singapore honing her cultural awareness, indulging her adventurous spirit and gaining an appreciation for diverse perspectives. Outside of work Fiona enjoys getting into nature, exploring different areas of Sydney and has recently started ocean swimming. Fiona was drawn to Napa for the opportunity to work within an interdisciplinary team in a values driven culture to support clients and their families along their therapeutic journey. Valerie Hernandez Clinic Aide Valerie Hernandez Clinic Aide Valerie Hernandez received her Bachelor’s degree in Cognitive Science from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She knew from a young age that she wanted to work with children, and after volunteering with NAPA LA in the summer of 2024, she discovered her passion for Occupational therapy. Valerie plans to take a gap year before pursuing a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy (OTD) at the University of Southern California (USC). Valerie is dedicated to helping children reach their full potential and loves supporting families in their journey. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time at the gym and baking delicious desserts. Maria Rossi Occupational Therapist Maria Rossi Occupational Therapist BS Occupational Sciences & MS Occupational Therapy, University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee Maria always knew that she wanted to be an occupational therapist and work with children. At 6 years old, she witnessed firsthand the power of client/family-centered therapy when her younger sister had to receive extensive therapy services at birth. Maria strives to provide client/family-centered therapy to all of her families that she gets the opportunity to work with. Her areas of special interest include intensive therapy, stroke and cerebral palsy rehab, feeding therapy, early development, developmental delays, and collaboration with families. When Maria is not working at NAPA, you can find her babysitting her nieces and nephews, cooking with her family, watching sports, being outdoors, or hanging out with her friends. Maria grew up in Illinois but has spent the past 10 years in Wisconsin. She is excited to be back in Chicagoland where she can safely cheer for her favorite sports teams: Da Bears, Cubs, and Blackhawks! Adriana Cabrera Early Intervention Assistant Adriana Cabrera Early Intervention Assistant Adriana is currently a grad student working towards attaining her Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy working towards getting her licensure. She has a Bachelor of Science in Criminology with two minors in Geographic Information Systems and Psychology. Adriana has always known that she wanted to have a career in helping people. When she realized she wanted to become a therapist, she knew she wanted to help as many people as possible. She has worked with kids in the past as a caregiver and volunteering at her Church, creating fun activities, and has always enjoyed working with kids. She worked at a Beauty Company for 5 years and is now ready to get her foot in the door and see the many types of therapy that help people. When Adriana is not busy at NAPA, she loves to spend time reading any and every genre. She enjoys spending time with her family, whether going on their morning Saturday walks and breakfast after or going to the farmers market. She is close to her siblings and makes time for them every weekend. She is very excited to start at NAPA, meet everyone, and start this new journey in her life. Simon Murphy Physiotherapist Simon Murphy Physiotherapist Doctor of Physiotherapy, Bond University Simon was born and raised in Eastern Canada. He travelled to Australia in 2019 to begin his physiotherapy journey, graduating with his Doctor of Physiotherapy from Bond in 2021. Simon has worked with children of all ages in various settings – summer camps, after school programs and sports teams. He has known for a long time that he wanted to work in the area of paediatrics, and his time at Queensland Children’s Hospital during one of his clinical placements solidified this. Upon completion of his 6-week clinical internship with Napa Sydney, Simon knew that he could not pass up the opportunity to join the Napa team. Simon is a committed and passionate team member who is eager to meet with families, set goals and create a safe, fun-filled environment for children to reach their full potential. When not working, you will find Simon in the outdoors hiking to lookouts to find a view or searching for waterfalls to swim in. Simon is also active in the running community and has completed three half marathons. Nicole Romei Speech Language Pathologist Nicole Romei Speech Language Pathologist Nicole is a Speech Pathologist with a degree from the Australian Catholic University in Melbourne. She co-founded the student Speech Pathology society on campus and would volunteer her time at the Speech Pathology Australia Victorian Branch. She continues to volunteer her time in Speech Pathology Australia today. Following a fulfilling 12 month maternity leave period, she immersed herself in the area of hearing loss at Aurora School, a school for the Deaf and Deaf-Blind. Within this school she worked in Early Intervention, visiting families throughout Victoria within their home. Nicole is also a retired Nurse, bringing a wealth of experience in various different medical fields, offering a unique perspective to her Speech Pathology practice. Some of previous areas Nicole worked in whilst she was a Nurse are heamodialysis, neurological rehabilition, oncology and nursing education. Outside work, Nicole enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, reading, craft and exercise. Lexie Brincklow Occupational Therapist Lexie Brincklow Occupational Therapist Lexie always had a strong passion working with children. She fell in love with the occupational therapy profession when working as a support staff for a community arts day program for neuro-diverse adults. Lexie attended Quinnipiac University where she earned her Master’s Degree of Occupational Therapy. Since graduating from OT school, Lexie has worked in outpatient pediatrics and within the school setting. In her clinical practice, Lexie is passionate about using her creativity and a play based approach to support children and promote increased participation in their daily activities. When she is not at NAPA, Lexie enjoys finding new recipes to cook, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. Elena Boikov Speech Language Pathologist Elena Boikov Speech Language Pathologist Bachelor of Speech and Language Therapy (First Class Honours), Massey University, New Zealand Elena developed a passion for Speech and Language Therapy through providing respite care and working at a special school. Before coming to NAPA, she was a speechie within the Early Intervention sector in New Zealand, supporting children with complex needs. Elena is a strong believer in the power of connection and the importance of seeing the potential in every child. She loves working alongside children and their families for many reasons, but mainly because this allows for lots of learning opportunities, creativity, and most importantly fun! Elena’s areas of special interest include Alternative and Augmentative Communication, dysphagia/feeding development, early language development, and disability advocacy. When not at NAPA, Elena enjoys hanging with her family, embroidery, reading good books, and exploring the local food scene. Sara Tomasello Physiotherapist Sara Tomasello Physiotherapist Sara is a Physical Therapist from the Chicagoland! Since she was little, she knew she wanted to have a career that would challenge her and allow her to make a difference. Fortunately for her, she has an amazing role model, her mother, who is an occupational therapist. She attended undergrad at Augustana College in Rock Island, IL and earned her Bachelor of Arts in Biology with a Psychology Minor. She then attended graduate school at Northwestern University in Chicago, IL and earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy. She has always been fascinated with the neurological and pediatric population and was fortunate to have had four clinical rotations in neurological/pediatric settings. Amongst all these rotations, she was able to strengthen her problem-solving skills, adaptability, creative mind, communication skills with patients and families…all while being a kid at heart! Sara is the oldest of three and comes from a very big extended family. Currently, she has been working as a fitness trainer and has had the opportunity to train individuals in private sessions as well as small and large group sessions. Outside of work, she loves staying active whether that includes working out, hiking, playing soccer/sports, cooking, and spending time with her family, friends, and pups! Julia Dodds Speech Language Pathologist Julia Dodds Speech Language Pathologist Julia completed her Bachelor of Speech Pathology at the Australian Catholic University. She spent her new grad years in a remote region of the Northern Territory in Australia where she discovered her passion for working with children with disabilities as part of a multidisciplinary team. Julia experienced the incredible opportunities that AAC provides to children and their families. After exploring the Top End for the last 2 years, Julia is excited to be back in her hometown supporting children to reach their potential! When she’s not at work, Julia loves catching up with friends, exploring new restaurants and cafes and going to the beach. Allison Travetto Occupational Therapist Allison Travetto Occupational Therapist Allison has always felt that she should do something she loves as her job every dayshe found that in occupational therapy. She obtained her BA in Recreational Therapy from California State University, Long Beach and her Doctorate of Occupational Therapy from Creighton University. Prior to becoming an OT, Allison was a recreational therapist in various settings including adaptive sports, psych, and neuro rehab. As she was leaving the Los Angeles area she was introduced to NAPA and admired their innovative research-based practices. Allison was able to volunteer at NAPA Denver a few years later and fell in love with their community. As a former water polo player and recreational therapist, Allison believes in play based, client centered practice. She is passionate about neuro-rehab and loves to bring silliness, smiles, and fun to every session. When Allison’s not at NAPA, you may find her hiking, playing sports, traveling, or cooking/baking yummy foods! Aisling Smith OT Assistant Manager Aisling Smith OT Assistant Manager Aisling has been working as a pediatric occupational therapist since graduating with her Masters from St. Louis University in 2015. She has worked with children in both the school and outpatient setting to help children of all ages and skill levels to achieve their goals. In 2018 she completed her NDT certification specializing in working with children with cerebral palsy and other neuromotor impairments which furthered her passion in treating children with neurological impairments. Aisling enjoys the opportunity to support and collaborate with children and their families in reaching their goals. As a new member of the NAPA team, she is excited to use her current knowledge and further learn and grow as a therapist. When she’s not at NAPA she enjoys being outdoors in her garden, hiking, bouldering, or exploring Austin with friends. Kristen Donlevie Occupational Therapist Kristen Donlevie Occupational Therapist Kristen earned her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Boston University. She developed her love of working with children through teaching preschool and kindergarten in both the United States and Spain before transitioning into a career in OT. Kristen loves helping children develop adaptive strategies to promote meaningful engagement in their favorite activities. She has contributed to research on arthrogryposis multiplex congenita, co-authored several journal articles, and is currently involved in developing a classification scale for the condition. Kristen is passionate about using creativity and play to build connections and support children’s growth. Outside of NAPA, Kristen enjoys kayaking, reading, traveling and spending time with family and friends. Nimesha Fernando Occupational Therapist Nimesha Fernando Occupational Therapist Master of Occupational Therapy Nimesha completed her Master of Occupational Therapy degree at Swinburne University and her Bachelor’s degree in Science at Monash University. Nimesha chose to become an occupational therapist as she always knew she wanted to work with children and connected with the way occupational therapists can help children in all stages of their development. Nimesha always looks at the strengths in children and utilises these in therapy sessions. She also believes in a family-centred approach and collaborates with families to support their child’s needs. When not working at NAPA, Nimesha enjoys spending time with her family, watching TV, and on sunny days you’ll be sure to find her at the beach. Her guilty pleasures are chocolate, cheese and anything yummy really! Andrea McCarney Administration Coordinator Andrea McCarney Administration Coordinator Andrea has been in administration roles for quite a few years and has spent the last 8 years as a Funeral Director, before then worked as an unsworn officer for WA Police. Originally from UK, Andrea moved over with her husband and 2 daughters in 2007 and hasn’t looked back. So far, she is loving working for NAPA, her favourite part is meeting the children and parents as well as working within a very helpful and fun team. She always likes to keep busy, and when she is not at work, she can be found in the garage renovating old furniture or painting using acrylics. She is very creative and loves to make things, whether it’s sewing, knitting/crocheting, arts and crafts things, painting or generally doing “stuff”, she is always doing something. Apart from that she likes reading a good novel or autobiography. Her guilty pleasure is to have a hot stone massage every now and then, listening to music of all different types and secretly loves to act the fool and embarrass her daughters. Gauri Gangane Physical Therapist Gauri Gangane Physical Therapist Gauri, has a master’s in pediatric physical therapy, grew up in India and has always had a big heart for working with kids. She’s all about making therapy fun and engaging, She is a great listener, full of empathy, and always brings warmth and positivity wherever she goes. With her bright smile and caring nature, she’s not just an amazing therapist but also a wonderful person. When she’s not at work, you’ll probably find Gauri exploring new places across the UK and Europe or spending her weekends making fun memories with her nieces. Caroline Sutton Occupational Therapist Caroline Sutton Occupational Therapist Caroline is a Charlotte native who loves helping children grow through play-based therapy rooted in a whole-child approach and meaningful family collaboration. She earned her Doctorate of Occupational Therapy from Huntington University in 2021 and holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of South Carolina, where she graduated in 2018. For her doctoral capstone, Caroline created a special needs ministry at her church, designing sensory-friendly spaces and advocating for disability inclusion in faith-based settings. With four years of experience—including over three in pediatrics—Caroline has worked across outpatient clinics (traditional and intensive models), home health, daycares, preschools, and acute care/inpatient rehab. During a rewarding travel therapy contract in Alaska, she discovered her passion for the intensive model and is thrilled to continue that work with NAPA’s Charlotte clinic. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking, traveling, and spending time with her husband, family, and friends. Paige Bredder Physical Therapist Paige Bredder Physical Therapist Paige is a Charlotte local and a dedicated Physical Therapist with a strong passion for pediatric care. She earned both her B.S. in Exercise Science (with a minor in Education) and her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Saint Louis University. Paige specializes in working with children and adolescents, using a blend of innovative techniques, playful exercises, and compassionate care to make each session both enjoyable and effective. She especially loves working with babies and is always inspired by the new things older kids teach her along the way. Her clinical experience includes treating children with Torticollis, Gross Motor Delays, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Spina Bifida, genetic conditions, and more. Known for her creativity and sense of humor, Paige strives to make therapy engaging while celebrating every milestone, especially the joy of seeing a child take their first steps or achieve a long-awaited functional goal. Outside of NAPA, Paige enjoys traveling, playing pickleball, making pottery, and spending time with friends and family. Finn Cox Clinic Aide Finn Cox Clinic Aide Finn graduated from Appalachian State University in Spring 2025 with a B.S. in Exercise Science and a minor in Psychology. His interest in physical therapy began after a positive experience recovering from an ACL tear in the eighth grade. Finn is passionate about uplifting others and spreading positivity through his work in the community. He is currently focused on gaining hands-on experience and shadowing hours as he prepares to apply to Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs. Outside of work, Finn enjoys staying active through hiking, skateboarding, and weightlifting. He also values time spent with friends and exploring new music. Rose Finnegan Physiotherapist Rose Finnegan Physiotherapist BSc Physiotherapy, University College Dublin Rose comes all the way from Ireland and graduated in 2021. As soon as Rose completed her clinical placements in paediatric neurorehabilitation, she knew that she had found her passion. Before arriving in Australia, Rose worked for over 2 years in paediatric disability services in Dublin, Ireland. Rose is delighted to be part of the NAPA family and is passionate about working closely with families to provide family centered care. Rose loves to have fun with her physiotherapy sessions and enjoys being creative with goal-orientated treatment plans. When Rose isn’t working, you will find her out running, drinking good coffee and eating in all the yummy (and expensive) Sydney restaurants. Liz Bulliner Physiotherapist Liz Bulliner Physiotherapist Liz is a Physical Therapist at NAPA Denver! She is originally from Michigan and received her bachelors in Health Science from Oakland University. After that, she headed down to North Carolina to attend Duke University where she received her Doctorate in Physical Therapy. She continued her journey south to Florida to complete a pediatric physical therapy residency with Brooks Rehabilitation before finally finding her home at NAPA. Growing up she attended hundreds of her sisters therapy sessions where the therapists saw her sister as a person and not as her disability. Her goal is to see kids as kids while helping them maximize their physical potential and meet their goals! When she is not in clinic you can find her checking out the newest local coffee shop, hitting up the gym, or enjoying the great outdoors. Perla Ojeda Lead Teacher Perla Ojeda Lead Teacher Perla is passionate about children and their developmental growth which is why she is currently attending college and looking forward to transferring to CSUN next fall. In a nutshell, Perla is always looking for ways to help children as well as others. She explained “I understand what is like to need help from others, therefore it feels great when I am able to be of any service.” Perla started her career at a rehab facility, assisting patients with daily living activities, but feels extremely excited to be able to work with young children. As a mother of two, she finds it effortless to relate to the families at NAPA. Like many California parents, she enjoys taking her kids to the beach and hiking. She also enjoys reading, painting, and listening to music making her a perfect fit for the NAPA Kids Academy. Blair Williams Speech Language Pathologist Blair Williams Speech Language Pathologist Blair is originally from Arlington, Texas. She received her Bachelor of Science in Applied Learning and Development for Elementary Education from the University of Texas at Austin. During the first few years of her career as a fourth grade teacher, it was really the speech pathologist’s role that caught her eye and ignited a passion for the field to pursue a Master of Science in Speech Language Pathology. Blair is passionate about everyone having their own special voice and means of communication in the world. When not working, Blair enjoys exploring new places and cuisines, watching thrillers, mysteries, or plays, painting/creating, and enjoying evenings in with relaxing cozy blankets, eucalyptus/lavender scents/candles, and soothing music. Allison Sano Early Intervention Assistant Allison Sano Early Intervention Assistant Allison Sano is a teaching artist, filmmaker, and storyteller from Chino, California. For over a decade, she has mentored students ages 5–22 across Southern California, helping them build confidence, take creative risks, and find their unique voices. Passionate about the transformative power of the arts, Allison partners with nonprofits and community organizations to bring meaningful programs to young people. She is dedicated to fostering creativity, self-expression, and a lifelong love in the language of storytelling in every child she teaches. Alexandria (Ally) Merrick Occupational Therapist Alexandria (Ally) Merrick Occupational Therapist MS Occupational Therapy, Stanbridge University. Ally has always had a passion for working with children which lead her to pursue her undergraduate degree in Child Development. After college, Ally worked as a behavior technician in a pediatric clinic where she fell in love with the field of occupational therapy. After getting to collaborate and observe so many occupational therapists, Ally went back to get her masters degree in occupational therapy. Getting to work with not only children but their families is one of Ally’s favorite things about working in a pediatric setting. When Ally isn’t at work she is most likely going for a run or hanging out with her dog Avila. Tara Fitzgerald Occupational Therapist Tara Fitzgerald Occupational Therapist Bachelor of Occupational Therapy from Australian Catholic University. With a background of gymnastics, Tara spent her spare time in high school working as a gymnastics coach, from this point forward not only did Tara know she wanted to work with kids, but she knew she wanted to work in a hands on role that supported and empowered children. When Tara discovered the field of Occupational Therapy, there was no looking back. With a background in high intensity support work, Tara has had the invaluable experience of being able to work closely alongside children and their families throughout the highs and lows of everyday life. Tara loves supporting children and their families to reach their goals. Tara is passionate about ensuring therapy is a fun and uplifting environment for the child and one where they can feel safe and confident to be themselves. When Tara is not working at NAPA, you can find her anywhere there are animals & finding every single dog friendly venue in Melbourne to take her miniature poodle Finley. As well as this Tara enjoys spending time by the beach in the warm months and can be found snowboarding throughout the winter. Phoebe Giang Therapy Aide Phoebe Giang Therapy Aide Phoebe is currently studying a Bachelor of Speech Pathology at The University of Queensland. She always knew she would work to help those in need and to make positive impacts on people’s lives. Her passions are driven from growing up with many little cousins, nieces, and nephews around her – she loved watching them flourish and reach their full potential. Phoebe pushes herself at NAPA to learn more about children’s development, disabilities, and disorders, as well as treatment activities and family support strategies for each so that the service she provides is of the utmost quality and care. Outside of NAPA, you’d find Phoebe in her element when caring for animals, or you would catch a glimpse of her on the piano and flute. Most of all, she loves going on vacation trips with her family and friends. Mary Thornton Speech Language Pathologist Mary Thornton Speech Language Pathologist Bio coming soon! Kayla Stewart Occupational Therapist Kayla Stewart Occupational Therapist Kayla Stewart received her Master’s degree in occupational therapy from the University of Southern California, her Bachelor’s degree in psychology from University of California, San Diego, and also has an associate’s degree in child development. Kayla has experience working with children in a variety of settings including leading after school programs, tutoring children of all ages, and teaching preschool. While completing her bachelor’s degree at UCSD, Kayla interned at the Autism Center of Excellence and Healthy Infant Development Laboratory, a research laboratory focused on identifying the causes of autism and finding effective treatments to support children and their families. Kayla has previous experience working in an outpatient pediatric setting, early intervention, and aquatic therapy. She is passionate about educating and supporting families in the areas of feeding and sensory integration. Kayla strongly believes in collaborating with families to discover and understand each child’s unique strengths and needs in order to increase participation in everyday life. Kayla enjoys spending her time traveling, reading books on the beach, and playing with her pup. Amalia Di Mauro Human Resources Manager Amalia Di Mauro Human Resources Manager Bachelor of Business Administration & Bachelor of Psychology, Macquarie University Amalia is passionate about fostering positive workplaces and enhancing the employee experience through HR initiatives, whilst supporting teams in reaching their full potential. With over a decade of experience spanning both Australia and the UK, predominantly within purpose driven organisations, she enjoys the opportunity to provide HR support to the NAPA team across the Australian clinics. When not working, she enjoys spending time with her family, exploring the local beaches on the sunny Gold Coast and working on her cooking skills. Lisa Gower Physiotherapist Lisa Gower Physiotherapist Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours), The University of Queensland. Following an interest in physiotherapy since primary school, Lisa’s passion for neurological and paediatric physio has only grown since completing her university courses and placements. Lisa is a strong believer in making therapy a fun and enjoyable experience and thinks there isn’t a better place to do that than NAPA! She loves being able to share the joy and excitement kids and their families receive when they achieve their goals. In her spare time, you’ll likely find Lisa in the garden tending to her flowers and plants, out for a walk, or curled up on the couch with her two cats and a book – though, she is sometimes found in the park doing some very wobbly rollerskating! Sheyla Lopez Early Intervention Assistant Sheyla Lopez Early Intervention Assistant Sheyla is very shy but once she’s comfortable, she’ll show her fun side. She enjoys drinking coffee and it’s infrequent for her to drink tea but she’s trying to cut the sugary drinks. Sheyla spends most of her time at home or church, she’s a homebody meaning she enjoys being at home and values her alone time and peace. As for her career goals, she’s following the Occupational Therapy route. She’s working towards her Bachelor’s degree at California State University, Los Angeles, majoring in Child Development and a minor in Psychology. She’s also working towards a certificate in Child Maltreatment and Family Violence. Mykah Faataape Therapy Aide Mykah Faataape Therapy Aide Mykah is currently studying a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy at Southern Cross University. Growing up, she felt encouraged to pursue a career in health as she witnessed her community serve in different capacities that contributed to the well-being of others. She has always imagined herself working with people, and being at NAPA has reinforced her love for working with children and their families. She is inspired by the joyful and committed example of her team and hopes to continue growing in knowledge and expertise for the benefit of all. When Mykah is not at NAPA, she is sharing a meal with family and friends, exploring the natural world – oceans, mountains, skies, hitting the pavement or gym, catching up on film, music, or podcast recommendations or capturing her colourful life through a lens! Megan Moore Clinic Aide Megan Moore Clinic Aide Megan is a Louisiana native who’s education has brought her multiple places, now most recently to Austin, TX in 2023. She recently just finished her first year in the Flex Program for her DPT at the University of St. Augustine. Prior to moving, Megan took a gap year following her undergrad graduation in Dec. 2021 in Tampa, Fl. During that year, she worked as a rehab aide at the main campus outpatient clinic for Johns Hopkins All Children’s. Through the observations of the specialty programs and patients she encountered there, she found her passion for pediatrics and solidified her choice in career. After completing the first year of her program, Megan’s passions remained the same and fueled the search for a similar opportunity to further enrich her knowledge and experiences. Laura Koszer Occupational Therapist Laura Koszer Occupational Therapist Laura first saw occupational therapy in action when she started working at an inclusive summer camp at 15 years old. Seeing how occupational therapy helped children achieve their highest potential with a skills-based approach and in a playful environment helped Laura to decide that OT was the career for her. After receiving her B.A. in Psychology from Binghamton University in New York, Laura moved to Boston to earn her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy at Boston University. Prior to working at NAPA Boston, Laura had experience in inpatient orthopedics and even worked as a student at NAPA in Los Angeles! Her experiences with the incredible children and families at NAPA LA inspired her to pursue a full-time role with the company back on the East Coast. Outside of NAPA, Laura can be found testing out a new recipe, reading at a local coffeeshop, or at the movies with her friends! Yazmin Higham Physiotherapist Yazmin Higham Physiotherapist Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPhty) – University of Otago, New Zealand Since a very young age, Yazmin has had a passion for working with children, and began her journey working as a ballet teacher aide and eventually teacher throughout high school and university. In her final year of her physiotherapy degree, while Yazmin was on placement at a special education school for children with high and very-high needs she realised her true passion for paediatric neurological physiotherapy. Yazmin made the move to Melbourne, Australia in 2018 and has since spent time in the wider private practice field of neurological rehabilitation. Yazmin is very enthusiastic about returning to a solely paediatric environment at NAPA, she works hard to empower every individual child to meet their goals, dream big and be an active leader in their own lives both physically and holistically. When Yazmin is not at NAPA she can be found running, at a bikram yoga class, cooking for family and friends and exploring the outdoors! Joshua Cox Patient Coordinator Joshua Cox Patient Coordinator BS Rehabilitation Studies, University of ArizonaJosh has always had a passion to make a difference in the world and improve the lives of others. Josh grew up very close with his Aunt, Arron, who had Down Syndrome; their close bond ignited his passion in working with people with disabilities. Josh started volunteering at Camp Civitan: a summer camp and weekend camp for adults and children with disabilities when he was 15. He was eventually offered a paid position and worked there until he was 19. Camp Civitan helped lead Josh to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Rehabilitation Studies at the University of Arizona so he could continue to improve the quality of life for others. Josh’s long term career goal is to start a non-profit with his brother, Jordan, that employs people with disabilities on a farm which uses the produce in food trucks also employed with disabilities. In his free time, Josh loves to play sports such as basketball and golf as well as attending sporting events. He is very excited to go to some Denver Nuggets and Colorado Rockies games; however he will be rooting for any Arizona team when they come to play. One of Josh’s favorite hobbies is looking for sea glass on the coasts of Southern California to find good pieces for his mom to use in her sea glass art. He also loves to cook delicious meals for him and his girlfriend, Avery. Kylie Claxton Clinic Manager - Melbourne Kylie Claxton Clinic Manager - Melbourne Kylie has over 20 years’ experience in Hospital Administration and is also a NAPA mum. She has travelled to both NAPA Sydney and LA clinics with her daughter Lily and knew from the moment she first walked through the doors at NAPA she had found “her people”. Kylie’s family believe that Lily has made lifechanging progress thanks to NAPA. Kylie is so excited to be part of the NAPA team, to be able to give parents and their children the NAPA experience having truly understand the journey our parents are on. Watching each child’s journey and the positive changes it brings to their whole families make her heart so happy. She feels so lucky to be working with the most talented team of therapists, meeting so many wonderful kiddos and their families. Kylie is a born Melbournite, living here with her husband Chris and children Jack, Harry and Lily. When not at NAPA Kylie’s happy place is at the beach with family and friends, loves traveling, shopping, coffee and wine. Paul Pozzobon Managing Director, CMO, NAPA Australia Paul Pozzobon Managing Director, CMO, NAPA Australia B.Business, University of Technology, Sydney A marketing professional with over two decades in high-level corporate roles, Paul made a significant life and career pivot to the paediatric disability sector, driven by a father’s love and a desire to make a tangible difference. The catalyst for his profound career change was his youngest son, Max. Born with cerebellar ataxia, a condition that affects motor skills, balance, and coordination, Max’s diagnosis set the Pozzobon family on a new path. Their journey led them to the NAPA (Neurological and Physical Abilitation) Center in Los Angeles, undertaking the first of what would become over fifteen intensive therapy sessions for Max at both the Sydney and Los Angeles clinics. The positive impact of NAPA’s intensive therapy model on Max’s development was significant. This firsthand experience ignited a passion in Paul to make these crucial services more accessible to other Australian families. In 2018, he made the formal transition from the corporate world to the role of Managing Director for NAPA Centre Australia. Paul’s commitment to the disability community extends beyond his role at NAPA. In November 2023, Paul Pozzobon joined the board of Belongside Families (formerly known as Kindred), an organisation that provides support and resources to families raising children with disabilities. In this role, he contributes his professional expertise and personal insights to further empower and connect families, fostering a sense of community and shared understanding. Lynette LaScala Chief Visionary Officer Lynette LaScala Chief Visionary Officer BS Special Education, University of Iowa Lynette LaScala grew up in Iowa and moved to California to fulfill her lifelong dream of living a life by the beach with lots of sunshine and outdoor fun. While preparing to celebrate her son’s first birthday, her life changed forever. Cody and his nanny were playing in his bedroom when she thought he crawled back to her. However, he crawled out the sliding door into the newly added family pool. Doctors gave Cody a very poor diagnosis and told Lynette and her husband they should leave the hospital and go on with their lives. Lynette was pregnant with their second child Bryan. Cody was still alive and leaving him was never an option. After hearing time and time again that there was no hope for Cody, Lynette researched to find an intensive home therapy program. As a parent of a child with a disability, you will try anything to give your child or loved one the best life possible. It became her passion to teach children with disabilities while traveling around the world to find the best therapies to help her son with Cerebral Palsy. Lynette became the US Parent Representative for the Euromed Rehabilitation Center in Mielno, Poland. She traveled from city to city spreading the word to doctors, parents, caregivers, etc on what intensive therapy entailed and how it changed her son’s life. As the founder and CEO of NAPA Center, Lynette shares her knowledge and experience with other families, while giving back to the community. NAPA Center’s therapists travel around the world to be trained in the best therapies one can find. Lynette’s dream of sharing all the therapies she found for Cody has become a reality. When you walk inside the doors you know….you have arrived to the place you were looking for. Welcome to our NAPA Family….. Bryan LaScala Chief Executive Officer Bryan LaScala Chief Executive Officer BBA Marketing, University of Iowa Growing up as the brother of Cody LaScala, now 32 with cerebral palsy, Bryan has developed a strong passion for serving children with disabilities. Tagging along to Cody’s therapy sessions, doctors appointments, surgeries, emergency room visits, and many of the out of state/country programs Cody attended, Bryan was exposed to the healthcare industry at a very young age. During his high school years, Bryan began working in respite care and had intentions of going to college to pursue his degree in physical therapy. After entering college at The University of Iowa, Bryan switched his major to business and graduated with his Bachelor’s of Business Administration degree in Marketing. Promptly after graduation, Bryan joined the NAPA team and also devotes his time to the NAPA Center Kids Foundation. Lisa Murphy Global Director: Rehab Services and OT Lisa Murphy Global Director: Rehab Services and OT OTD, OTR/L, SWC Lisa is a Doctor of Occupational Therapy and the Director of Rehabilitation at the NAPA Center. She received her Occupational Therapy Doctorate and Master of Arts in Occupational Therapy degrees from the University of Southern California in 2007 and 2008 and has been practicing in pediatrics in a variety of settings since then. Lisa’s dedicated work in occupational therapy has enabled her to travel worldwide from Ghana to Singapore to Australia aiding children with disabilities. Lisa has a strong passion for working with children and enjoys the help and support the NAPA Center Kids Foundation offers. Rebecca Weiss Global Director: DMI Services and Physical Therapist Rebecca Weiss Global Director: DMI Services and Physical Therapist Rebecca Weiss has been part of the NAPA Center family since 2008, when she first joined as an intern, and has worked as a physical therapist ever since. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Social Welfare from UC Berkeley and her Master of Physical Therapy from Cal State Northridge. Rebecca’s passion for pediatrics began as an undergraduate while volunteering at Children’s Hospital Oakland, and it has only grown stronger throughout her career. At NAPA, Rebecca is especially dedicated to developing the LA DMI team and supporting NAPA’s global DMI program. She finds great fulfillment in helping children reach their potential and in mentoring therapists worldwide. Outside of work, Rebecca enjoys yoga, exploring the outdoors, and spending time with her family. She and her husband stay busy (and entertained!) with their three children—Aviv, Benjamin, and Talia—making sure there’s never a dull moment in the Weiss household! Jessica Hernandez Global Director: Intensive Training Therapy Services Jessica Hernandez Global Director: Intensive Training Therapy Services Jess has come full circle since first landing at NAPA as a PT student out of California State University, Northridge. Her first trip to NAPA was a visit with her nephew, Isaac, who later enrolled and completed the 3-week intensive therapy program as a patient in 2007. She often says her road to NAPA was “written in the stars” and has since dedicated her time at NAPA to developing the Intensive Training Program and continuing to grow NAPA’s therapy teams. Her proudest professional achievement has been to collaborate with a diverse, dedicated team of therapists who inspire her to learn more, to teach with heart and to lead with optimism. Some of Jess’ non-work passions include watching every episode of Forensic Files known to man, obsessing over everything in Home Goods and defending her self-proclaimed title of “World’s Best Aunt.” Erin Stranahan Occupational Therapy Manager Erin Stranahan Occupational Therapy Manager Erin began working at NAPA Center Los Angeles in 2012 and made the move to Texas in September 2020 to continue to work with NAPA families in Austin. Erin knew at a young age she wanted to work with children and served as a children’s dance teacher, preschool instructor, and camp counselor while completing her undergraduate studies in child development. She received her Master of Arts in Occupational Therapy from the University of Southern California in 2010 and has been practicing in pediatrics since then. Her interest in occupational therapy began while volunteering in the NICU throughout high school and became passionate about supporting children and their families. In her free time, Erin enjoys reading, running, and watching football. Fight on! Louise Conn Director of Client Services, Australia Louise Conn Director of Client Services, Australia Louise is NAPA Australia’s Director of Client Services and a senior member of NAPA’s global leadership team. She plays a key role in shaping the family experience across NAPA’s Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane clinics and supports the delivery of regional pop-up programs. Often the first point of contact for families, Louise ensures each NAPA journey is welcoming, thoughtful, and grounded in a deep understanding of what it means to care for a child with complex needs. She draws from both professional expertise and her own lived experience as a parent, bringing a rare and invaluable “parent perspective” to every aspect of both clinic operations, the breadth of therapy options, and the role of our therapy teams. Her position bridges planning, therapy, administration, and family support. She champions collaboration across teams to ensure every child’s program is cohesive, individualised, delivered with excellence, and manageable for families. Louise holds deep appreciation for the work of NAPA’s clinical teams. Having worked side by side with therapists from the beginning, she has an intimate understanding of the skill, passion, and emotional intelligence they bring to their work each day. She also understands the incredible emotional, physical and financial load on families caring and supporting their loved ones with a disability. Louise’s connection to NAPA began over 15 years ago when her daughter, Georgia—now 18—was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy (GMFCS V) after a birth-related severe brain injury. Living in Singapore at the time, Louise and her husband Mick discovered NAPA in Los Angeles. Georgia became one of NAPA’s earliest international clients. Since then, Georgia has completed over 100 intensive programs and remains a much-loved presence in the NAPA community. This life-changing experience led Louise to help bring NAPA to Australia—hosting early pop-ups and playing a key role in launching the Sydney clinic in 2016. Since then, she has been instrumental in NAPA’s national growth, reputation for excellence, and a strong advocate for families navigating therapy, NAPA, funding, medical, and disability support systems. Beyond the clinic, Louise serves on the Family and Consumer Council (FACC) for the NSW Children’s Hospital Network, contributes to hospital advisory panels, and continues to advocate for more responsive, family-centred healthcare systems. With a professional background in corporate communications, marketing, design, and photography, she also helps ensure NAPA’s identity reflects the warmth, professionalism, and innovation families experience every day. In her limited “downtime”, Louise enjoys yoga, the beach, live music, podcasts, and good coffee and wine—key ingredients in the life of a dedicated special needs parent. Elizabeth “Liz” Farsi Physiotherapy Manager Elizabeth “Liz” Farsi Physiotherapy Manager Doctor of Physiotherapy, Idaho State University Liz relocated to Los Angeles from Idaho specifically to work at NAPA Center in 2014. Liz has always loved being around children, especially when she began coaching youth football as a teenager. She still enjoys coaching and even spent a winter as a youth ski instructor. In her spare time, she likes to spend time with her two boys and husband, play/watch soccer, ski, and snowboard. Liz was introduced to physical therapy when she was injured playing soccer in her senior year of high school. Soon after learning more about the profession, she shadowed a pediatric physical therapist, and knew immediately that she wanted to pursue it as a career. After graduating with her Doctor of Physiotherapy degree from Idaho State University in 2010, she spent her first two years working at the Infant-Toddler Program in Idaho in early intervention. She then spent two years in Utah working for The Learning Centre for Families, as well as teaching Sports Medicine and Anatomy, before moving to Los Angeles with her husband, Adam. Liz is a member of the Pediatric section of the American Physical Therapy Association, is Board Certified Pediatric Clinical Specialist, has attended numerous continuing education conferences and courses, and has had formal training with children’s orthotics and serial casting. One of Liz’s favorite things to do is running the footbALL soccer camp for children with special needs. Liz spent 6 years working at NAPA Sydney before moving to the Denver location. Ali Gebhardt Clinical Director & Occupational Therapist Ali Gebhardt Clinical Director & Occupational Therapist B.App.Sc. Ali graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Science (Occupational Therapy) from the University of Sydney in 2008. It was there she discovered her interest in working with children, and what a huge need there was in the community for specialists in the field. Since graduating, Ali has gained extensive and highly specialised skills working with children who have diverse needs and disabilities. Ali has a passion to see her clients exceed not only everyone else’s expectations, but the child’s own expectations of themselves. In 2015, Ali’s skills, knowledge, work history, and commitment to children’s development set her apart and was selected to be the first Australian occupational therapist to be sent to NAPA in Los Angeles and learn about the specialised therapy provided at NAPA. Ali was one of three therapists who set up NAPA in Australia from the ground. Since then, Ali has developed the occupational therapy department, moved into the role as the occupational therapy manager, and in 2021, has taken on the role of clinical director of NAPA Sydney. She believes that NAPA offers something very special to children with neurological disabilities. Ali has completed a number of courses focusing on sensory and movement/ developmental therapy techniques. Ali is a qualified DMI Intermediate B and CME (MEDEK) Level 2 trained therapist. Ali has also completed training in CIMT and bimanual therapy, Kinesiotaping Method, Wilbarger Brushing Protocol, Therapeutic Listening Program, Astronaut training, DIR®/FloortimeTM therapy approach, The Alert Program, NDT and many more. Ali is an enthusiastic, fun, and active therapist who believes that it is important for all children to reach their full potential in all aspects of life. Ali has worked as a part of a multidisciplinary team previously, and believes that there is nothing else world-wide quite like the ‘NAPA family’. Rhonda Graham National Administration Manager Rhonda Graham National Administration Manager Rhonda started at NAPA Sydney as Admin Manager and has now moved into a National role supporting all the Australian clinics. Rhonda always has a smile on her face unless she hasn’t had her morning cup of coffee! She enjoys working with people and loves seeing the kids shine while they work hard at NAPA. Rhonda has a passion for travel, cheese, and cider, and loves nothing more than spending time with family and friends cooking up a storm. Tara Dunne Director of Growth and Operations Tara Dunne Director of Growth and Operations Working with children of all abilities has always been a passion for Tara. During high school and college, she worked in a variety of after-school recreational programs for children with disabilities as well as a summer camp program. After college, she moved on to the insurance industry and for the past 10 years has been working in underwriting and management in the professional liability insurance sector. When Tara’s first child Kate was born, she suffered a hypoxic event at birth and was ultimately diagnosed with cerebral palsy. This brought Tara back into the world of disabilities. Like many parents, she searched everywhere for the most effective treatments for her daughter including traditional and alternative therapies. She found NAPA in 2016 when Kate was three years old and flew to LA with her family to complete her first intensive. Tara told us, “I knew immediately that I had found the right place for Kate. The expertise, therapies, knowledge, and community at NAPA is unlike anything I have experienced before.” Tara is a lifelong Connecticut resident and excited to be in the Greater Boston area with the NAPA family. As a Red Sox fan, the idea of moving to Boston was a natural fit as well as a great community to bring NAPA to. Nikki Rice Boston Director of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapist Nikki Rice Boston Director of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapist Nikki graduated from Ithaca College with her Doctorate of Physical Therapy. While at Ithaca, she played for the women’s varsity soccer team. She has enjoyed both playing and coaching sports since she was a little girl, which eventually helped clinch her decision to pursue a physical therapy degree to helping children. Her physical therapy career has been solely in the pediatric field, and she has experience in both the outpatient and inpatient settings. She has worked for several years as a clinical supervisor, teaching graduate students of different universities. In May 2015, she became an American board pediatric certified specialist. Nikki has experience treating a wide range of pediatric diagnoses, ranging from children with developmental delay to those with neurologic impairments, orthopedic conditions, and rare diseases. Furthermore, she has extensive training in evaluating and treating infants with torticollis as well as recommending orthotics for children. Nikki is a CME level II clinician, and has trained several times under the creator, Ramon Cuevas. Since becoming certified in CME, Nikki truly believes her therapeutic approach has been further polished and more importantly, life-changing. Sarah Ross General Manager, NAPA Austin Sarah Ross General Manager, NAPA Austin Background: Current Student at Los Angeles Valley College Ms. Sarah adores children so much that decided to make it her lifelong career path. She is currently wrapping up some prerequisites before transferring to CSU to earn her degree in child and adolescent development. Right now, we are keeping her mind sharp by putting her to work in both the billing department and preschool. Her favorite part of the day is reading to her preschoolers. It takes no time to notice everything Sarah does is with great enthusiasm and spirit. In fact, Sarah is so passionate about a good read she once traveled all the way to Oregon to check out one of the top 10 bookstores in the country. Talk about commitment! Cecelia “Cece” De La O Paitent Coordinator Cecelia “Cece” De La O Paitent Coordinator Cecilia, also known as Cece, is the friendly face you first see when you walk into NAPA Center. When she is not answering phones, scheduling appointments, or working with insurance, you can find her completing one of her many home improvement projects. CeCe amazes us daily with her incredible ability to multitask. Note to Parents: Cece is now accepting donuts, chips, or candy for anyone who wishes to reschedule for a same day appointment. Therese Nagovan Occupational Therapy Manager Therese Nagovan Occupational Therapy Manager Therese is originally from the Midwest in the USA and this is where she earned her Master of Occupational Therapy and her Bachelor’s in psychology at St. Ambrose University. Therese always knew she wanted to work with children, and she discovered occupational therapy through working as a nanny for a child with sensory processing disorder. Therese’s curiosity and interest were sparked seeing the progress and changes for the child from his weekly OT sessions. Therese now has 10 years of experience working as an OT and she is still exciting by learning new skills and taking new courses to help children and families make meaningful gains through therapy. Therese has a special interest in Dynamic Movement Intervention, visual-vestibular rehabilitation, and assistive technologies. Therese has been able to combine her love of traveling with OT and has done clinical studies in Ireland, Ecuador, and El Salvador as well as traveling with the NAPA team to the Boston, Melbourne, and Sydney clinics. Therese has now relocated to the UK and is loving being a part of the NAPA London team. When she’s not at work, Therese enjoys trying out new restaurants and cafes, baking, and traveling with her husband and daughter. Katie Haskins Occupational Therapist Katie Haskins Occupational Therapist Masters in Occupational Therapy, University of St. Augustine, San Diego, CA Katie found her way to occupational therapy through her love of children and passion for helping them achieve therapeutic goals. Before NAPA, Katie spent seven years practicing in a variety of pediatric settings including sensory integration clinics, the home, and schools. Katie enjoys working with both neuromotor and sensory-based populations. She is SIPT (Sensory Integration Praxis Test) certified, trained in CME, and has experience with Sensory Integration and Neuro-Developmental Approach. She lives outside of Boston with her husband, two kids, and a retired therapy dog. When she is not at NAPA or in the kitchen cooking for her family, you can find her in the gym or having dance parties with her kids. In the winter, she loves to ski with her family and in the summer she spends the weekends on the beaches of Cape Cod. Take us with you Katie! Kathryn LeMonda Occupational Therapy Manager Kathryn LeMonda Occupational Therapy Manager B.S. Health Sciences, Masters in Occupational Therapy; Quinnipiac University; Clinical Doctorate, New York University Kathryn attended Quinnipiac University in Connecticut, earning a Bachelors degree in Health Sciences and a Masters in Occupational Therapy. She recently earned her post-professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree from New York University. A born and raised New Yorker, Kathryn has enjoyed the opportunity to live and work on both east coast and west, during her time in California and with NAPA Boston. A love for travel coupled with a passion for new adventure, had her excited to move abroad to join NAPA Melbourne! (New York may have the best pizza, but this caffeine-lover couldn’t pass up the opportunity to live in the coffee capital!​) Kathryn has dedicated her professional career to paediatrics and developed a true love for working with the pediatric neuromotor populations and children with feeding and eating difficulties, since joining NAPA. A lifelong learner with a passion for clinical research and education, Kathryn recently served as the primary author on several peer-reviewed presentations and article publications. Kathryn is passionate about working with children, and first became interested in OT while volunteering in college as an adaptive ski instructor for children with disabilities. Her favorite part of NAPA is “Every day I come to work, I learn something new and see something exciting. The energy, dedication and magic that happens here is unparalled”. When not working, you’ll find Kathryn at yoga, the beach or ski trips, trying out new restaurants with friends and family, and enjoying long walks around the city in search of the best cup of coffee! She also hopes to pick up some new surfing skills, while down under! Yumi Sugiyama Physical Therapist Yumi Sugiyama Physical Therapist Bio coming soon! Emily Norlock Austin Director of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapist Emily Norlock Austin Director of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapist Emily graduated from Western University of Health Sciences with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy. Since then, she has been working at NAPA Center, Los Angeles where she has had the opportunity to work with children and their families from across the world and gain extensive experience with diagnoses from Developmental Delay, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, Kleefstra Syndrome, CDG, Seizure Disorders, and many more neurological, chromosomal, and genetic disorders. She is trained in Neurosuit, Medek, Universal Exercise Unit, Kinesiotaping, Theratogs, Trexo, NDT, and has seen great benefits from using whole body vibration (Galileo training) with her patients. Emily is no stranger to cross country moves, she moved from Minnesota to California for her undergraduate work. While she enjoyed her time at the beach for 12 years, she is excited to get back to the lake life in Austin, TX just like she grew up with in Minnesota, “the land of 10,000 lakes”! Jennifer Stevens Physical Therapy Assistant Manager Jennifer Stevens Physical Therapy Assistant Manager Jenn is excited to be a part of the NAPA Center Boston team! She earned her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Northeastern University. While at Northeastern, Jenn swam on the varsity swim and dive team. Her experience with her own injuries as an athlete spurred her interest in pursuing a physical therapy degree. While in PT school, Jenn found her true passion in working with children. Since graduating, Jenn has worked in a variety of settings, including a school system for children with visual impairments and outpatient pediatrics, treating a wide range of diagnoses including cerebral palsy, developmental delays, genetic disorders, torticollis, and amputees. Outside the clinic Jenn enjoys beach days, learning to ski, and traveling every chance she gets. Katie Hedden Physiotherapist Katie Hedden Physiotherapist Doctor of Physical Therapy, University of St. Augustine After interning in a pediatric setting during graduate school, Katie found working with children to be the most rewarding! We admire her go for it attitude, adventurous sprit, and superhuman ability to turn down anything with sugar in the therapist lounge. Katie is a diligent worker and notoriously the first one into the clinic to prepare for the day ahead. Along with completing CME and DMI training, she continues to enroll in education courses to stay current in the world of physiotherapy. Georgia Dwyer Physiotherapy Manager Georgia Dwyer Physiotherapy Manager Bachelor of Physical Therapy 2017, Australian Catholic University Georgia has a life long history of working with children. She worked in childcare and as a nanny while studying physical therapy, but it was during one of her PT placements that Georgia knew pediatric physical therapy was for her. She also has experience in sports and musculoskeletal PT in a private practice clinic. Georgia is a keen hockey player, loves to go to the beach, and is a proud aunty of an ever-expanding number of nieces and nephews. Raquel Triviño CME Level II Practitioner Raquel Triviño CME Level II Practitioner Raquel graduated with a degree in Physical Therapy in Madrid, Spain in 2001 and specialized in pediatrics in 2003. She worked in early intervention using traditional European techniques (as Bobath, Vojta and Le Metayer) until 2010, when she joined her husband in an adventure to the US. Since her move to America, Raquel has made two trips to Chile to get her certification as a CME practitioner under the tutoring of Ramon Cuevas. She is passionate about helping families unleash their CME superpowers and discover all the benefits of this unique approach to physical therapy. Raquel is a firm believer that the therapy needs to adapt to each kids needs on an individual level. Along with an individualized approach, she also finds it’s equally important to sing as much as possible during each session. This busy mom rarely gets a moment to herself but when she does, she loves to empower women by exercising her make up artist skills or cook paella! Lindsey Moss Chicago Director of Rehab Lindsey Moss Chicago Director of Rehab Lindsey became part of the NAPA team when Boston opened its doors back in 2018. She is thrilled to join the Chicago team and open the next amazing NAPA clinic! She grew up in Northern New Jersey and moved to Boston to attend Northeastern University to get her Doctorate in Physical Therapy and Early Intervention Certification. Her enthusiasm for learning led her to be trained in CME, DMI, and receive certifications in NeuroDevelopment Treatment and KinesioTaping techniques. At NAPA, Lindsey grew to take on the role of PT manager and IMOT trainer. Teaching is one of her passions and she enjoys supporting the NAPA team. Lindsey is known for her friendliness and compassion with the children and families she works with, always pushing them to reach their highest potential. She is also a certified yoga instructor and practices yoga regularly. She has seen the benefits of the mind/body connection in her own life as well as in those of her students. Lindsey’s favorite activities are walking, spin class, HIIT classes, swimming, and paddle boarding, but also enjoys reading and relaxing by the water. Jenny Lee Occupational Therapist Jenny Lee Occupational Therapist MA, OTR/L Jenny graduated with a Masters in Occupational Therapy from the University of Southern California where she was born and raised. She has always wanted to work with kids, but wasn’t sure what field to go into until she found occupational therapy. Jenny started at NAPA as a student and decided to never leave! Jenny is a total foodie and makes all the other therapists jealous of the gourmet feasts she brings in for lunch. When she is not cooking, she spends her free time practicing martial arts, going dancing, and eating good food. Tiffany Brown Occupational Therapist Tiffany Brown Occupational Therapist MOT, OTR/L, University of St. Augustine Tiffany has been passionate about working with children from a young age. While teaching special education, Tiffany discovered the effectiveness of occupational therapy for students with sensory processing difficulties. This inspired her to move across the country to receive her degree in OT and work in both school and clinic-based settings. In her spare time, Tiffany enjoys spending time with friends, traveling, and cheering on The Ohio State University Buckeyes! Alison Kielty Occupational Therapist Alison Kielty Occupational Therapist MSOT, OTR/L Ali graduated with a Master’s of Science in Occupational Therapy from CSU Dominguez Hills in 2013. Her passion for working in the pediatric setting started when she was an assistant in an early intervention program where she embraced the unpredictable, yet rewarding nature of working with children. Prior to joining the NAPA team, Ali gained experience as a school based therapist, working closely with children, families, and interdisciplinary teams. Born and raised in the South Bay, Ali loves going to the beach, running, watching sports, and spending time with family and friends. During college football season you can catch her cheering for her Arizona State Sun Devils! Katharine Gill-Garcia Occupational Therapist Katharine Gill-Garcia Occupational Therapist Katharine graduated with a masters in occupational therapy from San Jose State University, but really we think she has a masters in flattery. She loves to tell us “NAPA is a clinic unlike any other” and a welcome surprise in her career. Katharine pursues areas of intervention and is continually seeking opportunities to learn and grow as a therapist. She does a fantastic job sharing this information and helping the NAPA team navigate tricky and unique patient goals. She believes her journey as a therapist enriches her life, both personally and professionally, and she is privileged to be a part of a network that cares for and serves amazing families. Her work experiences in multiple settings (clinics, homes, schools) and personal experience as a caregiver, have expanded her capacity and increased her empathy, which she hopes is evident in her work as a therapist and in her life. Mara Kenyon Occupational Therapist Mara Kenyon Occupational Therapist Mara graduated with a combine bachelors and masters degree in Occupational Therapy from the State University of New York at Buffalo in 2013. She immediately moved to Southern California to get as far away from the cold as possible! Before joining the amazing team at NAPA, Mara worked with children in the public and nonpublic school system, as well as in an outpatient pediatric clinic. Mara has always known she wanted to work with children, and decided to become an OT when she saw how much it helped her younger brother who is autistic. She feels empowered that every day is a new opportunity to make a difference for her clients and their families. When not at NAPA, you’ll probably find Mara playing one of the board games in her giant collection (she owns more than 70) or marathoning Netflix shows. Julie Knight Speech Language Pathologist Assistant Julie Knight Speech Language Pathologist Assistant AA, Cerritos College Julie comes from an elementary school based environment. She works predominately with children who have Autism. Her background includes Applied Behavior Analysis Therapy and Picture Exchange Communications Systems. She is passionate about working in Early Intervention and celebrating success big or small with parents. Everyone at NAPA loves being around Julie. She brings a fun and vibrant energy with her wherever she goes. Sometimes we catch her on the the trampoline or in the ball pit after all of the kids leave. Jamie Lacroix Speech Language Pathologist Assistant Jamie Lacroix Speech Language Pathologist Assistant BS Communication Disorders, California State University Long Beach Jamie is a board game playing, amusement park going, cooking, and exercising queen, who also happens to be a mom of two! While researching different ways to help her children, both of whom needed speech services, Jamie discovered a love for the world of speech and language. Like many moms, she relies on and appreciates how her kid’s therapists have transformed her family’s life and overall wellbeing. It’s absolutely apparent to us that Jamie loves getting to give back. She continues to research and find different ways to reach each child. “There is no better feeling than working with a child and seeing them grow with their speech, language and communication.” Miki Fukusumi Global Director: Speech Therapy Services and SLP Miki Fukusumi Global Director: Speech Therapy Services and SLP MA Speech-Language Pathology, California State University, Long Beach The extensive impact that communication and feeding have on a child’s everyday quality of life are deep passions that drew Miki to the field of speech-language pathology. Miki loves working together with parents to support a child’s gains in therapy. Her prior clinical experience includes ABA therapy, feeding therapy in a pediatric hospital setting, early intervention, and in school-based settings. Miki’s areas of special interest involve feeding/swallowing disorders, language disorders, early language acquisition, and intervention with severe/medically complex diagnoses. This outdoors enthusiast loves to travel and explore new places, read, and eat delicious food! Daisy Saldana Lead Teacher Daisy Saldana Lead Teacher Current Student at Santa Monica Community College Meet Daisy, a woman who truly doesn’t hesitate when it comes to helping others. This super sweet mom stood by her nephew’s side everyday of his intensive therapy program, as well as during traditional therapy before she took on a job at NAPA. She quickly developed a way of drawing out just what kids need and are trying to express. With over three years of special needs experience, Daisy is never short on great advice. She inspires her tiny tots to try something new everyday and lives by the mantra: “A person who never made a mistake never tried anything new.” -Albert Einstein. Jesus Plascencia Co Teacher Jesus Plascencia Co Teacher BS Human Development, California State University, Long Beach Our kids use him as a human jungle gym, but Jesus continues to show the NAPA team how to bring a little more patience into our day. Jesus began his work with special needs children while volunteering during college. Through this experience working with children diagnosed with autism, Jesus formed a special connection and understanding with the struggles that special needs children and their families undergo. This inspired him to work in a research lab where he assisted with the implementation of an experimental educational program for Latino families of children with autism. Jesus now plans on attending graduate school and focusing his research on mental health issues within the Latino community. Barbara Lee HBOT Technician Barbara Lee HBOT Technician Background: Hyperbaric Medicine Certified, Long Beach Memorial Medical Center Barbara came to NAPA in 2010 and is a true jack-of-all-trades. From martial arts to brewing the best cup of coffee, Barbara truly does it all. She is well known for making hyperbaric oxygen experience a comfortable one for both patients and parents. Coined as the Mother Bear of NAPA, you can most likely find her running around, making sure everything is in order and that everyone is happy and content. Barbara explains, “It’s all about the children getting better.” Her current projects include remodeling her home and helping with her autistic great-grandson. They are working on saying simple words because It’s her dream for him to speak. Jessie Perez Medical Billing Specialist Jessie Perez Medical Billing Specialist Background: MBIC, American Career College Behind the scenes at NAPA, Jessie is working hard to help insurance cover as much therapy as possible! Like all parents, Jessie has been trying to teach her daughter the value of a dollar. Despite her efforts, she let us know “Toddlers don’t care about your budget.” Jessie gets the best of both worlds working in billing. She can say hi to all of the cute kids but retreat to her desk if they happen to have a meltdown. Ultimately, her favorite part about coming to work each day is getting to help families navigate the tricky world of insurance. Kerri Stuart Physical Therapy Manager Kerri Stuart Physical Therapy Manager Doctorate of Physical Therapy, MGH Institute of Health Professions Kerri graduated from Amherst College with a bachelor’s in Biology before pursuing her physical therapy degree at the MGH Institute of Health Professions in Boston. One of her earliest introductions to physical therapy was an observation of her younger cousin’s hippotherapy session. While she still can’t ride a horse, she found and has maintained a passion for using her knowledge of movement to help children reach their functional potential. Kerri developed a specific interest in the rehabilitation of neuromuscular disorders as a student at a pediatric hospital followed by a year spent working at an inpatient rehabilitation hospital on Cape Cod. She is excited to combine her passion for pediatrics and neurology while serving the children and families at NAPA Center. When not at NAPA Center, you’ll likely find Kerri in a hockey rink, waterskiing, or chasing after her golden retriever. Jennifer Wooland Physical Therapist Jennifer Wooland Physical Therapist Doctor of Physiotherapy, Bond University Jennifer was born and raised in Sugar Land, Texas. GO HOUSTON TEXANS! She moved across the world to Gold Coast, QLD to pursue a degree in physiotherapy. From teaching swim lessons, volunteering at paediatric therapy clinics to completing a paediatric physiotherapy placement in Vietnam, Jennifer knew she wanted to pursue a career working with children. Jennifer enjoys visiting the beach, playing tennis, drinking coffee and searching for the best Mexican food. Laura Connolly Clinical Director Laura Connolly Clinical Director Laura is an Irish OT who received both her Bachelor degree in OT and her Post Graduate Masters through research in Trinity College Dublin, Ireland. Laura has always had a passion for working with children with disabilities and worked in a clinic for children with physical disabilities in Ireland before moving to Australia two years ago. Laura has completed formal courses in sensory integration, handwriting, seating and communication in Ireland, the UK and in Australia. She has always been keen to keep up to date with best practice and had the findings from her master’s research project (in relation to ASD) published in the American Journal of Occupational Therapy. Laura loves travelling and has travelled 5 out of the 7 continents in the world in the last three years! She loves her Sydney lifestyle and enjoys spending time on the beach, going for hikes and going on roadtrips. Cait Parr Physical Therapist Assistant Manager Cait Parr Physical Therapist Assistant Manager Doctor of Physical Therapy, Washington University of St. Louis Cait has wanted to be a pediatric physical therapist since she was 8 years old shadowing her mom, also a pediatric PT. And now Cait is living her best life fulfilling her childhood dreams! Cait majored in Pediatric Health and Motor Development at Pepperdine before receiving her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Washington University of St. Louis. During her clinical rotation at NAPA LA, Cait quickly fell in love with the wonderful kids, their sweet families, and the enthusiastic team of therapists that taught her the secrets to helping each child reach their fullest potential. Play is Cait’s favorite therapeutic tool! She loves to get kids laughing and playing along so they don’t even realize they’re doing exercises! When not working at NAPA, Cait can be found enjoying nature, desserts, and quality time with her family. Interested in joining our team? We are always looking for bright, new talent to join our team. Reach out to us using the form below! 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020 4515 5441 SEARCH Generic selectors Exact matches only Search in title Search in content Post Type Selectors Search in posts Search in pages Accessibility Menu MENU About Us Cody’s Story Meet the Team NAPA Blog Programs Intensive Therapy Paediatric Occupational Therapy Paediatric Physiotherapy Paediatric Speech Pathology Developmental Feeding Therapy Weekly Therapy Telehealth Therapy Tools DMI Functional Estim Galileo Neurosuit Spidercage Vitalstim Theratogs Locations London Brisbane Melbourne Sydney Austin Boston Charlotte Chicago Denver Los Angeles Get Started Intake Forms Intensive Registration Process Frequently Asked Questions Fees MyNAPA Portal Log In Join our Team Careers Students Volunteers Contact Us About NAPA About Us At NAPA Centre, we embrace each child’s differences and work with them to overcome their unique challenges. We do this by designing individualised intensive therapy programs with unique combinations of our wide range of speech, physical, occupational and other innovative therapies. Because each intensive program is tailored to a specific child, no two intensives are exactly alike. After your child’s program is customised, our experienced and dedicated therapists work closely with them to empower them to meet their goals, no matter how big or small they may be. At the same time, we are always mindful of the needs of the family and even encourage family participation in some of our programs. Mission We are dedicated to delivering innovative therapy to children with neurological and developmental disabilities, creating a community of hope where our clients can reach their full potential. Vision To be the global leader in pediatric neurorehabilitation. History NAPA (Neurological and Physical Abilitation) Centre was founded in 2008 by Lynette LaScala after spending two decades traveling around the world in search of the best therapies and treatments for her son Cody. Cody experienced a near drowning accident on his first birthday, after which Lynette made it her life’s mission to help him reach his full potential and instill hope. Her journeys around the world inspired her to make the best and most innovative therapies available under one roof. Today, we have nine clinics located in Los Angeles, Boston, Austin, Denver, and Chicago in the US; Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane in Australia; and London in the United Kingdom. Values Love – NAPA’s foundation is grounded in the deep love parents have for their children. Together, we strive to infuse kindness and care into our actions and words, creating a supportive community built upon love.​ Hope – We believe in the potential of every child and are committed to offering unwavering support to our families, guiding them toward success, and inspiring hope.​ Share – We strive toward progress and connection through continuous collaboration among team members, as well as with our clients and their families. ​ Grow – Embrace evolution, active engagement, and perpetual pursuit of knowledge from our clients, colleagues, and industry. By doing so, we are committed to providing the most advanced and effective therapy, ensuring the continual improvement of our services. document.cookie = 'nitroCachedPage=' + (!window.NITROPACK_STATE ? '0' : '1') + '; path=/; SameSite=Lax'; We are here to help. Reach out anytime. Contact us PHONE 020 4515 5441 EMAIL info@napacentre.co.uk Stay in the NAPA know. Sign up for our newsletter to receive important updates! 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020 4515 5441 SEARCH Generic selectors Exact matches only Search in title Search in content Post Type Selectors Search in posts Search in pages Accessibility Menu MENU About Us Cody’s Story Meet the Team NAPA Blog Programs Intensive Therapy Paediatric Occupational Therapy Paediatric Physiotherapy Paediatric Speech Pathology Developmental Feeding Therapy Weekly Therapy Telehealth Therapy Tools DMI Functional Estim Galileo Neurosuit Spidercage Vitalstim Theratogs Locations London Brisbane Melbourne Sydney Austin Boston Charlotte Chicago Denver Los Angeles Get Started Intake Forms Intensive Registration Process Frequently Asked Questions Fees MyNAPA Portal Log In Join our Team Careers Students Volunteers Contact Us Intensive Therapy Programs Tailored to Your Child’s Unique Needs INTENSIVE REGISTRATION Experience the Extraordinary Difference NAPA Centre – World-renowned Paediatric Therapy, right here in the UK. Your child is unique with very specific needs. NAPA embraces these differences with an understanding that individualised programs work better. We work with you to incorporate our wide range of therapies into a customised intensive or weekly program specific to your child’s needs and your family’s goals. Lynette LaScala – Founder and Chief Visionary Officer, NAPA Our Programs Intensive Therapy Our intensive programs, which may include combinations of occupational, physiotherapy & speech therapy, are customised for each child. Learn More Paediatric Physiotherapy NAPA Centre takes an intensive approach to physiotherapy using the NeuroSuit and Multifunctional Therapy Units. Learn More Paediatric Occupational Therapy An OT’s role is to assist individuals in performing “occupations” with the greatest level of independence possible. Learn More Paediatric Speech Therapy Our paediatric speech therapists use a variety of techniques to address oral motor dysfunction, apraxia, fluency, receptive and expressive language, social pragmatics, and feeding and swallowing difficulties, to help your child improve overall communication and/or feeding development. Learn More Developmental Feeding Therapy Our occupational and speech pathologists will work with your child to help them learn to feed themselves so they can become more independent. Learn More Weekly Therapy Weekly appointments are available for physiotherapy, occupational therapy, NeuroSuit (min. 2 hours), and speech therapy and will be with the same therapist each week. Please note that we do not offer fortnightly appointments. Learn More Learn More Our Process From determining your individualised program to registering for a session, here’s a step-by-step guide to start your child on their new journey. 1 STEP 1 Intake Forms Want to determine if your child is a candidate for intensive therapy? The first step is to fill out our intake paperwork online. Make sure you have your most current OT, PT, and speech evaluation on hand so you can upload them before submitting this form. INTAKE FORMs 2 STEP 2 Therapy Recommendations After you submit your paperwork, please allow up to 10 working days for our Clinical Director to review your intake form and determine if your child is a candidate for our intensive therapy program. At this time, they will recommend what type of therapy and how many hours should be included in your individualised plan. Our intensive coordinator will send you an email with our finalised therapy recommendations. 3 STEP 3 Session Registration After we know what type of therapy and how many hours are appropriate for your child, we can move forward with scheduling. Click below to fill out the Intensive Request Form for the session/s of your choice. Intensive Registration 4 STEP 4 Payment Options After we receive your Intensive Request form, our intensive coordinator will reach out to you if we have an intensive opening that matches your needs. Please note, filling out this form lets us know that you are interested in a specific session. It does not guarantee you a spot on our schedule. Your spot is confirmed once you place a £1,000 deposit for the tentative schedule provided by the intensive coordinator. If the session you requested is all booked up, we will add you to the waitlist for that session date and be in touch if something comes up. PAYMENT OPTIONS NAPA by Numbers Sometimes we let the numbers do the talking. 0 Appointments Each Day 0 Intensive Sessions Offered Per Year 0 Cups of Coffee Consumed by Our Team Daily 0 Highly Trained and Highly Caffeinated Therapists Stay Inspired! Discover Our Resources Filter All Blogs Videos PT OT SLP Feeding NAPA Family Activities Blogs Trick-or-Treating Tips and Alternatives for NAPA Parents Blogs NAPA Family World Cerebral Palsy Day 2025: Spreading Hope & Awareness Activities Blogs SLP Jack-o’-Lantern Speech Activities Blogs NAPA Family What We Wish the World Knew About Down Syndrome Blogs OT The Power of Play: How Everyday Activities Shape Your Baby’s Development Blogs PT What to Expect in an Early Intervention Paediatric Physiotherapy Session Blogs OT 28 Best Sensory Toys Recommended by Occupational Therapists Blogs PT The Best Positions to Support Early Motor Development in Infants Blogs PT Paediatric Walkers and Standing Frames, What’s the Difference? 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Activities Blogs SLP Summer Speech Therapy Activities for Kids: Fun Ideas to Boost Language Skills Blogs OT PT Explaining the Difference Between Occupational and Physiotherapy Blogs SLP Childhood Apraxia of Speech: Early Signs & Treatment Options Blogs SLP National Speech Language Hearing Month: Know the Early Signs Blogs NAPA Family Thoughtful Mother’s Day Gift Ideas for Busy NAPA Mums Blogs NAPA Family Paediatric Stroke Rehabilitation, Treatment, and Awareness Blogs NAPA Family What I’ve Learned From Working With Autistic Children Blogs NAPA Family OT Celebrating Occupational Therapy Month With 10 Fun Facts Blogs NAPA Family Autism Awareness Month: Promoting Inclusion & Acceptance Blogs NAPA Family Paediatric Brain Injury Rehabilitation & TBI Therapy Options Blogs NAPA Family March 21st is Down Syndrome Awareness Day Blogs NAPA Family Raising a Child With Down Syndrome: Tips, Support & Hope Activities Blogs 8 Fun and Festive St. Patrick’s Day Activities for Kids Blogs Child Autism Therapy Options at NAPA: A Parent’s Guide Blogs PT Gait Training Exercises for Children: A Paediatric PT’s Guide Blogs NAPA Family Home Exercise Tips from a NAPA Parent to Keep Progress Going Blogs NAPA Family Angelman Syndrome Day: Insights from Parents and Therapists Blogs OT 10 Sensory Adaptation Strategies to Modify Daily Tasks Blogs OT Understanding Sensory Issues in Kids: Signs & Solutions Blogs NAPA Family PT Videos A Day in the Life of a Paediatric Physiotherapist Activities Blogs PT 10 Fun Nugget® Couch Ideas by a Paediatric Physiotherapist Activities Blogs NAPA Family OT Videos What to Expect from Your Child’s Occupational Therapy Evaluation Blogs PT Videos How Gait Training and Gait Trainers Can Support Your Child Blogs PT 5 Research-Backed Benefits of Adaptive Bikes for Kids Blogs SLP 5 Tips for Supporting Auditory Learners at Home Blogs NAPA Family Videos Teamwork at NAPA: Our Multidisciplinary Approach to Therapy Blogs NAPA Family OT PT SLP What to Expect From Your First NAPA Weekly Therapy Session Blogs NAPA Family PT Videos What to Expect From a Paediatric PT Evaluation Blogs PT Why We Love the Firefly Upsee at NAPA Activities Blogs Understanding Vestibular Input & Its Role in Sensory Regulation Blogs OT 5 Ways Parallel Play Can Benefit Your Child Blogs Thanksgiving Activities for Kids: Fun Ways to Prepare and Celebrate Activities Blogs OT 32 Fine Motor Activities: Our Therapists’ Ultimate List Activities Blogs OT The Importance of Crossing the Midline + 9 Activities to Try Blogs NAPA Family Therapy Options for Children with Down Syndrome: A Guide for Parents Blogs The Best Down Syndrome Toys — Our Therapists’ Top Picks Activities Blogs OT Build Buttoning Skills with a Fun DIY Button Snake Blogs NAPA Family From One Mom to Another: How To Keep Your Child Motivated During Therapy Blogs NAPA Family 8 Back-to-School Tips for a Smooth Transition Blogs NAPA Family Our 5 Favorite Tools for Your Child’s Home Exercise Program Blogs OT A Therapist’s Guide to Compression & Weighted Vests for Kids Blogs OT Designing the Perfect Sensory Room or Area for Your Child Blogs OT Weighted and Compression Vests for Autism: What Parents Should Know Blogs OT 3 Activities to Help Develop Object Permanence Skills Blogs PT Finding the Perfect Fit: Toddler Shoes Recommended by a PT Blogs NAPA Family PT Physiotherapy Q&A Roundup! Blogs NAPA Family OT A Day in the Life of an Occupational Therapist Blogs PT What Is Serial Casting and How Can It Help My Child? Activities Blogs PT 14 Fun Indoor Activities for Kids by a Physiotherapist Blogs OT Understanding Your Child’s Sensory System Blogs SLP Speech Delay vs. Autism: Identifying the Differences Blogs OT 5 Surprising Developmental Benefits of Chores for Kids Blogs OT What Are Executive Functioning Skills? Blogs PT 9 Ataxia Physiotherapy Exercises to Try at Home Blogs OT Why Would a Child Need Occupational Therapy? Activities Blogs Three Fun Valentine’s Day Crafts Ideas Activities Blogs OT 10 Activities to Help Improve Your Child’s Spatial Awareness Blogs Feeding Dinner Ideas for Picky Eaters: 7 Healthy Meals & Recipes Blogs OT 10 Tips for Creating a Visual Schedule for Your Child Activities Blogs OT 20 Heavy Work Activities for Kids by an OT Activities Blogs OT Top 5 Fine Motor Skills Toys Handpicked by a Paediatric OT Blogs SLP 5 Must-Have Toddler Books Recommended by an SLP NAPA Family A Letter from our GM, David Grocott! Blogs PT Physiotherapy for Cerebral Palsy: Our Tools & Techniques Activities Blogs PT 15 Activities to Build Gross Motor Skills for Summer Blogs OT Videos How to Tame Your Sensory Seeker Blogs Feeding 5 Easy Swallow Strengthening Exercises for Dysphagia Blogs NAPA Family Person-First Language: How to Use It and Why It Matters Blogs Feeding 10 Tips to Get Your Child to Eat When They Refuse Activities Blogs SLP 5 Great Language Development Activities Blogs OT Do Weighted Blankets Improve Sleep for Children with Autism? Blogs SLP The Difference Between Receptive and Expressive Language Blogs Vibration Therapy for Autism: How Vibration Plates Can Help Your Child Activities Blogs OT 25 Obstacle Course Ideas to Improve Gross Motor Skills Blogs PT Abnormal Gait: 3 Common Patterns & Deviations Blogs SLP Autism Communication Difficulties: Understanding and Supporting Your Child Blogs OT Understanding Visual Perception and Visual Motor Skills Blogs OT How to Improve Your Child’s Praxis Skills Blogs Feeding NAPA Family NAPA Centre Partners with CIAO Seminars Blogs PT Your Guide to Infant Physiotherapy Blogs 8 Quadruped Exercises by a Paediatric Physotherapist Blogs OT Fine Motor Skills Examples and Fine Motor Development by Age Blogs 10 Fun Facts About Physiotherapy Blogs SLP 3 Activities to Promote Oral Language Development Blogs Feeding 5 Feeding Tools We Love Blogs PT Low Muscle Tone and Autism: A Physiotherapist’s Overview Blogs OT Learn Pre-Writing Skills at Home With These Activities Blogs NAPA Family Why Parents Participating in Therapy Sessions is an Integral Part of a Child’s Treatment Blogs Feeding 10 Go-To Healthy Snacks for “Picky Eaters” Activities Blogs Encourage Outdoor Play with These 7 Soccer Games for Kids Activities Blogs 4 Play Activities to Promote Baby’s Sensory Motor Skills Activities Blogs PT 6 Ball Activities for Preschoolers and Toddlers Blogs SLP Emergent Literacy: Early Skills to Help Your Child Develop Blogs OT What is Interoception? The “8th Sense” Explained Blogs OT 8 Self-Regulation Strategies for Kids Blogs OT Proprioception: What Is It? (And 8 Signs of Dysfunction) Activities Blogs OT Sensory Bins for Toddlers: Your Complete Guide Activities Blogs OT Open-Ended Water Play for Sensory Fun Blogs Feeding Tips and Tricks for Mealtime with Toddlers Blogs OT Occupational Therapy for Babies: What Does it Look Like? Blogs “My Baby Hates Tummy Time!” Tips for Parents Blogs PT Exercise Ideas to Combat Flat Feet in Children Blogs Feeding 5 Foods With High Caloric Intake Blogs Feeding 5 Feeding Strategies for Children with Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI) Activities Blogs OT Sensory Bottles: Our Favorite DIY Sensory Toy Blogs NAPA Family First Intensive? 5 Things Your NAPA Team Wants You to Know Activities Blogs 6 Jumping Games for Kids by a Paediatric Physiotherapist Activities Blogs PT 5 Physiotherapy Tools You Already Have at Home Activities Blogs PT 3 Fun Paediatric Physiotherapy Games and Activities Blogs OT Simple and Rewarding Pincer Grasp Activities for Babies Activities Blogs PT 6 Animal Yoga Poses for Kids Blogs SLP What is AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication)? Blogs SLP 18 Month Speech Milestones and 5 Strategies to Help Blogs PT Out-Toeing (Duck Footed) Versus In-Toeing (Pigeon Toed) Activities Blogs PT 7 Hula Hoop Games Your Kids Will Love Blogs PT Tailor Sitting: A PT’s Opinion on Sitting Cross Legged Activities Blogs OT 5 Activities to Improve and Develop Scissor Skills Blogs Encourage Your Baby or Toddler to Squat With These 5 Exercises Activities Blogs OT Scooter Board Activities Used in Occupational Therapy Blogs OT PT 7 Therapy Exercises to Try at Home with a Peanut Ball Videos Missing Piece: NAPA Edition Blogs OT PT Videos What is the NeuroSuit? Blogs Why We Use the Trampoline as a Therapy Tool Blogs PT Gross Motor Development for Infants and Toddlers Activities Blogs OT 5 Activities to Improve Hand Eye Coordination Blogs PT 5 Physiotherapist Approved IKEA Finds Activities Blogs 5 Ways to Get Your Kids Doing Therapy Without Them Even Knowing Blogs PT Videos What is the SpiderCage? Activities Blogs OT PT SLP Play Therapy: Purposeful Fun for Your Child Blogs OT 7 Occupational Therapy Activities to Try at Home Blogs Smart Home Technology Creating Accessible Homes Blogs OT PT Videos What is the Galileo Vibration Plate? Blogs OT Beginners Guide to a Sensory Diet Activities Blogs OT Activities to Address Tactile Defensiveness Blogs OT Five Things I Wish I Knew Before Going to School to Be a Paediatric OT Blogs 10 Tummy Time Toys We Love Activities Blogs OT 5 Activities to Improve Visual Scanning and Tracking Blogs Videos 4 At Home Activities with an Exercise Ball Blogs SLP 5 Ways to Improve Your Child’s Social Thinking Skills Blogs SLP Pre-Intentional and Pre-Linguistic Communication Activities Blogs SLP Speech Therapy Strategies for Your Family Walk Activities Blogs SLP 25 Conversation Starters for Kids to Improve Pragmatic Language Skills Blogs NAPA Family Top Things to Do in Melbourne Blogs NAPA Family Top Things to Do in Sydney Blogs MNRI Activities Blogs SLP 19 Speech Board Games to Stimulate Language Development Blogs Feeding What is the Difference Between Aphasia and Dysphagia? 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