Occupational Therapy

Empowering Daily Routines

As a parent, you want your child to learn, develop and grow. This process is different for each child and family and we’re honored to be with you on your unique journey. If you’re noticing delays or differences in development – where regular everyday activities seem challenging for your child – our occupational therapists are here to be that helping hand.

Red Flags to be on the Look Out For
Infants
  • Appears to have dominant hand (only using 1 hand to reach/grab items)
  • Not tolerating tummy time well
  • Not bringing hands together at midline (4 months)
  • Not transferring objects between both hands (6 months)
  • Difficulty transitioning to bottle feeding, puree or table foods
  • Not interested in self-feeding (fingers)
1-2 Years
  • Not holding cup/bottle on their own
  • Doesn’t point using index finger
  • Doesn’t use fingers to feed self
  • Little to no interest in using utensils (fork and spoon)
  • Not using a pincer grasp (thumb and index finger)
  • Not showing interest in scribbling or holding a coloring implement
  • Showing decreased variety of foods accepted
At Milestone, we support your child and family in adapting to new ways of functioning and freedom, creating daily routines that are empowering, not stressful.

Talk to one of our occupational therapists about your child today. 

BOOK A FREE CONSULTATION CALL WITH A THERAPIST
From an Empowered Parent

“Miss Kayla [from Milestone] is the best!! We would follow her to the ends of the earth.  Her calm and caring nature are magic and she can always bring out the smiles in our daughter.  Her passion and talent have had a tremendous impact on our family.  We <3 Miss Kayla!”

@amberlyn_1

Bringing Joy To Everyday Activities

Occupational therapy covers a wide range of activities and behaviors that your child may be struggling with…think: sensory processing, eating, playing, sleeping, learning and social development to name a few.   Here are more specific examples for when our OT’s can help get involved:

SELF-CARE SKILLS

Dressing, Shoe Tying, Brushing Teeth, Grooming, Hygiene

FINE MOTOR SKILLS

Handwriting, Grasp, Buttoning, Using Scissors

GROSS MOTOR SKILLS

Safely Navigating Environment, Sitting / Walking / Crawling Independently

FEEDING

Accepting Variety of Foods, Oral Motor Skills, Feeding, Drinking, Using Utensils

SELF REGULATION

Transitioning to new activities, responding to changes in routine, emotional and sensory regulation

ATTENTION

How your child focuses on play activities, family members and peers

SENSORY PROCESSING

Sound, Touch, Taste, Smell, Movement and Balance

SOCIAL SKILLS

Sharing, Turn-Taking, Playing with Peers, Playing In Creative Ways

Meet Your Milestone

Occupational Therapists

Whether your challenges are big or small, our caring team of occupational therapists can illuminate a new path forward for your child and your family so everyday activities can be joyful.
Occupational Therapist

Rachel B., OTD, OTR/L

Occupational Therapist

Years of Experience: 2 years

Specialties:

Sensory Integration, Feeding Therapy, Aquatic Therapy

Occupational Therapist

How would you describe your approach to working with children and families?

I am passionate about meeting children where they are at, and focusing on a child centered and play based approach to therapy. I am thankful for the privilege of being able to help children grow and develop in order to achieve their highest potential each day.

What accomplishments in your career are you most proud of?

Completing my doctorate.

What inspired you to pursue a career in therapy, and what keeps you passionate about working with children and families each day?

I was a respite worker for many years in college, working with children with various needs that inspired me to want to do more to help children achieve their highest potential. Seeing the progress that families and children make and the joy as they complete their goals keeps me passionate about my work as an occupational therapist.

Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of Milestone?

I love to bake and walk on the beach in my free time.

Is there something unique or fun about you that patients might enjoy knowing?

I am learning to roller skate!

Trainings + Certifications
  • Sensory Integration Certificate
  • Swim Angel Fish – Aquatic Therapy
Occupational Therapist

Amanda C., MOT, OTR/L

Occupational Therapist

Years of Experience: 3 years

Specialties:

Aquatic Therapy

Occupational Therapist

How would you describe your approach to working with children and families?

I would describe my approach as a child-centered, and more broadly, a family-centered approach in order to motivate children and help families accomplish the goals that are most important and relevant to their lives.

What accomplishments in your career are you most proud of?

I am most proud of making the hard decision to switch careers from teaching and go back to school to become an OT.

What inspired you to pursue a career in therapy, and what keeps you passionate about working with children and families each day?

I love the holistic approach of occupational therapy and being able to help children and their families with so many aspects of their lives.

Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of Milestone?

When I am not working, I  enjoy crafting and sewing and spending time with loved ones.

Is there something unique or fun about you that patients might enjoy knowing?

I am originally from San Diego but also lived in Missouri (St. Louis and Kansas City) for 17 years before moving back to San Diego in late 2021.

Trainings + Certifications
  • Swim Angel Fish – Aquatic Therapy
Occupational Therapist

Dima E., MS, OTR/L

Occupational Therapist

coming soon.

coming soon.

Victoria “Tori” H., MS, OTR/L

Milestone University

coming soon.

coming soon.

Zane K., MS, OTR/L

Occupational Therapist

Years of Experience: 16 years

Specialties:

Sensory Integration, Feeding Therapy, Handwriting, Dysgraphia, Reflex Integration, iLs

Occupational Therapist

How would you describe your approach to working with children and families?

I aim to take a collaborative approach with children and families, meeting the kids and caregivers where they are and building from there. I use a relationship-based approach with the kids, guided by their strengths and areas of interest.

What accomplishments in your career are you most proud of?

Professionally, I am proud to have completed many hours and courses to further my knowledge of sensory integration, ultimately completing my SIPT certification and now pursuing a CLASI certification. Daily, I am proud of all the small accomplishments each kid makes!

What inspired you to pursue a career in therapy, and what keeps you passionate about working with children and families each day?

I’ve always known I wanted to work in healthcare after I witnessed the amazing work of my mom’s doctors and therapists following a spinal injury. I quickly discovered pediatrics was my calling when I first got into coaching gymnastics. Seeing the smiles and pride of children when they learn something know or accomplish a new goal fills my bucket!

Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of Milestone?

I’m an avid Peloton user, obsessed with my elderly Shiba Inu, and enjoy cooking and trying new restaurants.

Is there something unique or fun about you that patients might enjoy knowing?

I was a gymnast and gymnastic coach before becoming an OT.

Trainings + Certifications
  • Sensory Integration and Praxis Test (SIPT) Certified
  • Certificate in Ayres Sensory Integration (CLASI)-in progress
  • SOS Approach to Feeding
  • Beckman Oral Motor Protocol
  • Learning Without Tears
  • DIR/Floortime
  • Integrated Listening Systems (iLs)-Focus Sytem and Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) Certified
  • Astronaut Training – A Sound Activated Vestibular-Visual Protocol
  • Therapeeds H.O.P.E. Method (Harper’s Optimal Protocols for Enrichment)
  • Wilbarger Deep Pressure and Proprioceptive Technique (DPPT) and Oral Tactile Technique (OTT)
  • Masgutova Neuromuscular Reflex Integration (MNRI)
  • Social Thinking & Zones of Regulation
Occupational Therapy

Carissa L., MOT, OTR/L, CEIM

Lead Occupational Therapist

Years of Experience: 9 years

Specialties:

Early Intervention, Beckman Oral Motor, Feeding Therapy, Infant Massage, Handwriting

Occupational Therapist

How would you describe your approach to working with children and families?

Play based and client/family centered.

What accomplishments in your career are you most proud of?

I have the privilege of being a lead therapist at Milestone. I feel that being able to serve not only the families here, but also the therapy team, has been one of the greatest joys in my career.

What inspired you to pursue a career in therapy, and what keeps you passionate about working with children and families each day?

My father was in a bad car accident when I was young and he had to go through over a year of therapy. Watching my dad’s therapists help him regain independence and the ability to play with me again meant so much. Seeing how they made a difference in both my father and my families lives made a tremendous impact. I wanted to be able to give back to other families just like my dad’s therapists did for my family.

Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of Milestone?

I love watching my favorite sports teams, music (including Asian music/k-pop), all things Disney, and spending time with my husband, son, and dogs. I can talk about any of those topics for hours. 🙂

Is there something unique or fun about you that patients might enjoy knowing?

When I was in college, I participated in intramural sports and won the mixed doubles badminton championship.

Trainings + Certifications
  • Early Intervention
  • Beckman Oral Motor Protocol
  • SOS Feeding
  • Get Permission Approach to Feeding
  • Certified Educator of Infant Massage
  • Handwriting Without Tears
Occupational Therapist

Jasmine O., MA, OTR/L

Director of Occupational Therapy

Years of Experience: 8 years

Specialties:

Sensory Integration, Fine Motor Delay, DIR FLOORTIME, Feeding Therapy

Occupational Therapist

How would you describe your approach to working with children and families?

I am an advocate for children and believe strongly in using neurodiversity affirming approaches. OT is about highlighting a child’s strengths and having laughing while learning in a safe space.

What accomplishments in your career are you most proud of?

I consider it a huge accomplishment when I am able to say goodbye the the children who graduate from occupational therapy!

What inspired you to pursue a career in therapy, and what keeps you passionate about working with children and families each day?

I became a pediatric OT because I wanted to make a positive impact in the lives of children. Growing up with my brother, who is autistic, taught me just how important tailored support can be for kids facing unique challenges. I witnessed how therapy can help build essential skills, explore their surroundings, and have fun while learning. This inspired me to pursue a career where I can help children, like my brother, discover their strengths and enjoy happier, more fulfilling lives!

Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of Milestone?

When not in the clinic, I am probably playing pickleball, watering my plants, or traveling!

Is there something unique or fun about you that patients might enjoy knowing?

I have over 100 plants at my house!

Trainings + Certifications
  • Sequential Oral Sensory Approach To Feeding
  • Handwriting Without Tears
  • The King of Swings Sensorimotor Workshop
  • Astronaut Training – A Sound Activated Vestibular-Visual Protocol
  • DIR-Floortime Approach: Basic Functional Emotional Development Certified
  • The Collaborative for Leadership in Ayres Sensory Integration
  • A 3 Step Approach to Nurturing Interoceptive Awareness by Kelly Mahler
  • The Learn Play Thrive Approach to Autism

Amber T., OTR/L

Occupational Therapist

Years of Experience: 2.5 years

Specialties:

Feeding Therapy, Sensory Integration

Occupational Therapist

How would you describe your approach to working with children and families?

I strive to create a comfortable environment for children and families to learn and grow. I meet the child where they’re at and create a just right challenge to promote a positive learning environment and promote opportunities for success for the child. I keep sessions child led and creates a fun, safe environment for the child and their families!

What accomplishments in your career are you most proud of?

Putting children and their families first and continuously learning in the field.

What inspired you to pursue a career in therapy, and what keeps you passionate about working with children and families each day?

Being able to help children reach their full potential and build confidence is my favorite part of being an OT.

Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of Milestone?

In my free time, I enjoy going to concerts, exploring new places and spending time with my friends, boyfriend and puppy

Is there something unique or fun about you that patients might enjoy knowing?

I have a pug puppy!

Trainings + Certifications
  • SOS Feeding
  • Certificate in Ayres Sensory Integration

Maison W., MOT, OTR/L

Occupational Therapist

Years of Experience: 1 year

Specialties:

Aquatic therapy, Feeding therapy, Sensory Integration,  Beckman Oral Motor

Occupational Therapist

How would you describe your approach to working with children and families?

I am a play based therapist who incorporates my clients interests and passions into each therapy session. I welcome all children for who they are. I love to be silly during my sessions and isn’t afraid to get messy!

What accomplishments in your career are you most proud of?

I am most proud of completing the Beckman Oral Motor certification and becoming an aquatic therapist.

What inspired you to pursue a career in therapy, and what keeps you passionate about working with children and families each day?

I grew up admiring three important women in my life who consistently loved and helped children grow through teaching. As I got older I found Occupational Therapy from the school system and fell in love with what the profession stands for. My goal is to be able to help deepen children and their families ability to enhance and embrace life at every stage. I also love to be goofy and creative so working with children is a no brainer for me!

Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of Milestone?

I love to swim, play pickle ball, drink coffee, host game nights and travel!

Is there something unique or fun about you that patients might enjoy knowing?

I was on the news during a missions trip to Taiwan in 2019.

Trainings + Certifications
  • Beckman Oral Motor Certification
  • Swim Angelfish Aquatic Therapy

Valerie Y., MS, OTR/L

Occupational Therapist

coming soon.

coming soon.

BOOK A FREE CONSULTATION CALL WITH A SPECIALIST

Frequently Asked Questions

  • It can sometimes be difficult to know if a service is needed for your child. That’s why at Milestone Pediatric Therapy we offer free consultations to help guide you to the best treatment for your family. Our therapists’ goal is to get you the help you need and for your family to be empowered to make the next best choice for your child. Additionally, speaking with your doctor is also helpful to decide if therapy is needed.

    • Attention-deficit / hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
    • Auditory Processing & Reading Difficulties
    • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
    • Cerebral Palsy (CP)
    • Developmental Delays
    • Down Syndrome
    • Feeding Difficulties & Aversions
    • Genetic Conditions
    • Gross and Fine Motor Delays
    • Hypotonia/Hypertonia
    • Neurological Conditions
    • Sensory Processing Disorder 
    • Social Skills Deficits

  • At Milestone Pediatric Therapy, we believe a child’s occupation is to PLAY! And playing is exactly what we plan to do during our OT sessions. We use a wide variety of therapy equipment (swings, slides, climbing structures, and crash mats to name a few) to make the experience fun and engaging for your child and family. We use your child’s interests and goals to structure each session. The OTs will provide parents and caregivers with resources and skills to incorporate into your daily routine, adapt activities to allow for maximum independence, and shape the environment for engagement and participation across settings.

  • Yes, we do!  It’s our goal at Milestone to excel in bringing the latest OT research and techniques and providing them to your family.  We currently have 5 OT specialties and are always adding!

    • SOS Feeding Therapy: A no-pressure approach to expanding foods in your child’s diet
    • Handwriting Without Tears: A child-centered approach to developing handwriting skills
    • Neurodevelopmental Therapy (NDT): A holistic approach to movement
    • Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT): A form of rehabilitation therapy that can improve the use of a child’s upper extremities caused by a stroke or other central nervous system damage.
    • Developmental Individual-Differences Relationship (DIR) Floor Time Approach: This is a developmental model for assessing and understanding any child’s strengths and weaknesses.  It has become particularly effective at identifying the unique developmental profiles and developing programs for children experiencing developmental delays due to autism, autism spectrum disorders or other developmental disorders.

Let’s Connect

We would like to meet with you and your family to determine how we can help.

Book a call
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