The Uncommon OT Series Patricia Motus

In the episode, we will learn from Alison Bode, MS, OTR/L & Madelyn Yoo, MS, OTR/L, founding members of Occupational Therapists for Environmental Action (OTEA). OTEA is composed of a group of occupational therapy practitioners and students (OTPS) from across the US who are committed to raising awareness about the impact of climate change on human health, wellness, and participation in meaningful occupations. OTEA endeavors to collaborate with like-minded professionals to address the ways in which, human occupation can either contribute to or mitigate the worst effects of the climate crisis. Special Mention to other members of the OTEA leadership team, Carol Myers, Kelly Carlson, Jill Clancy-Secreto, and Elizabeth Richardson. 

In the episode, we will learn from Gina Taylor, MS, OTR/L, HPCS. Gina is a dedicated occupational therapist who specializes in Hippotherapy. She has extensive experiences
in clinical practice, education, and leadership. Holding a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from Philadelphia University, Gina is a licensed occupational therapist in New Jersey, bringing a rich skill set to her roles. Her commitment to continuous learning is evident in her teaching experience as an Adjunct Instructor at Raritan Valley Community College and her role as Coordinating Faculty for the American Hippotherapy Association, where she contributes to curriculum development and ensures learner outcomes. With clinical expertise in pediatric and psychosocial interventions, Gina holds certifications in Sensory Integration, DIR/Floortime intervention, and is a Hippotherapy Clinical Specialist. As the owner of Epona Therapy Services, LLC, Gina operates a private practice, delivering direct occupational therapy services and providing career coaching. Her leadership roles have included Director of Operations at Mane Stream, showcase effective staff management and oversight of therapy services. Gina's impact extends to addressing mental health in diverse populations, exemplifying her holistic approach and commitment to the transformative potential of occupational therapy.

In this episode, we will learn from Andrea Cordis, MS, OTA (she/her/hers). Andrea has been a COTA since 2004. She has practiced in a variety of settings including skilled nursing, home health, inpatient psych, community-based mental health, and inpatient rehab. Andrea also worked as a lab instructor and fieldwork assistant in a masters of OT program. In addition to her OT education, Andrea also holds a BS in health science and an MS in higher education administration. She recently made the move to Massachusetts Councils on Aging as the training and education manager, using her OT skills in an uncommon way! Andrea is also a trauma-informed yoga instructor. When she is not working at MCOA, teaching yoga or working per diem in inpatient rehab, you can find her baking, hiking, or traveling!

In this episode, we will learn from Francisco Lasta, OTR/L (he/him). Francisco is a licensed Occupational Therapist who specializes in Inclusive Design. With over a decade of working with people with a variety of disabilities of all ages and socio-economic statuses, his expertise in human-centered design, task analysis, and accessibility gives him a uniquely empathetic and functional perspective when it comes to architecture and design. Combined with his solid knowledge of UX, he is passionate about helping designers create spaces that are accessible and usable by all people. As M2’s Marketing Strategist, Francisco closely collaborates with M2’s talented architects and designers to develop and execute marketing campaigns and helps with business development to explore, establish, and strengthen strategic partnerships. He is passionate about how M2 can uniquely position and differentiate itself during project pursuits as he leads the firm’s strategic planning meetings. He reinforces this role with his tech savviness and keeping himself updated on emerging industry trends.

In this episode, we will learn from Carlin Reaume, OTD, OTR/L, DipACLM, PMH-C, PCES. Dr. Reaume has more than 15 years of experience as both a therapist and educator. After completing both her Master’s and Doctorate at the University of Southern California, she
created a career weaving together her background in Lifestyle Redesign, mental health, and movement in order to forge her own path in a variety of non-traditional OT settings. She launched her private practice, Supported Mama, in 2020 with the goal of helping women
reconnect to their bodies after pregnancy in a way that supports both physical and mental well-being. She holds advanced certifications in lifestyle medicine, perinatal mental health, postpartum corrective exercise and ergonomics. She has presented her work both nationally
and internationally, as well as held several leadership positions for the Occupational Therapy Association of California. Her work has also been featured on the Amazon Halo fitness app and Pilates.com. Dr. Reaume currently serves as Assistant Clinical Professor for the Doctor of
Occupational Therapy Program at the University of the Pacific in Sacramento, California and as the Advocacy & Government Affairs Committee Chair for the Occupational Therapy Association of California.

In this episode, In this post, we will learn from Carly Weiner, MS, OTR/L (they/them). Carly is a Registered Occupational Therapist who currently works in a healthcare technology start-up. She holds a Master of Science degree in Occupational Therapy from Columbia University. Carly started planning a non-clinical career while still in graduate school. Carly offered to work for free for anybody she could while in grad school to gain a broad range of experiences. This included a start-up called Rosarium Health, which focuses on home modifications, where Carly is now the Director of Clinical Partnerships as a freelancer. In this role, she uses the power of networking to connect interested clinicians with the company to create partnerships.

*Many Thanks to Episode #66 podcast co-contributor, Emily A. who wishes to stay anonymous and was generous enough to share her journey & perspective..