Meet Our Team: Bringing you 50+ years combined experience and more than 25 areas of specialization- served with passion.
Administrative Team
Jamie Putnam
Education:
- B.S. Speech Pathology and Audiology: Texas State University
- M.S. Communication Sciences and Disorders: Texas State University
- Licensed: State of Texas
Certification of Clinical Competence: ASHA
Additional Certifications/Training:
- Early Childhood Development
- Learning Disabilities Certification
- Licensed Hanen ® provider, with certifications in the parent programs:
- It Takes Two to Talk
- More than Words®
- Fast ForWord Provider®
- Michelle Garcia Winner “Social Thinking”
- Wilson Reading Program
Member:
- American Speech – Language – Hearing Association
- Texas Speech Language and Hearing Association
- American Telemedicine Association
- National Stuttering Association
- Stuttering Foundation
- American Academy of Private Practice in Speech Pathology and Audiology.
Experience:
- Private Practice
- Round Rock ISD (pre-k, elementary & high school age students)
- Seton Hospital- adult patients
- Neonatal intensive care unit
- Outpatient therapy services
Community Involvement:
- Northwest Austin Young Life – Committee Member
- Travis County Center for Child Protection – Family Support Volunteer
Favorite Things to Talk About:
My 3 children, my little nieces and nephews, healthy living, and other’s life stories.
How did you choose this field?
My grandmother worked at a hospital and when I was young she would take me to work with her. She let me observe various hospital employees so I could see all the different types of careers. The speech pathologist was my favorite! I wanted a career where I could make a difference, work with people, and continually be challenged. In my 25+ years as an SLP, I haven’t been disappointed! I love being a part of the therapy team. I look forward to meeting every individual who walks through our doors and especially enjoy getting to interact with the children. I look forward to talking with you and answering any questions you may have about our clinic and team to ensure a positive experience here at Capital Area.
Lora Giberson
Education:
- Studied Business Management at Richland College
Licenses/Certifications:
- Licensed Phlebotomist from Central Texas Phlebotomy Institute
Experience:
- Financial Counselor: NICU – ST David’s North Austin Medical Center
- Registrar: Labor and Delivery -St David’s North Austin Medical Center
Favorite Things to Talk About:
My family, first and foremost! I love music whether that’s playing, singing or listening. I love movies and game nights with friends. I love meeting new people and learning new languages. I know sign language and I’m currently learning Tamil.
How did you choose this field?
I’ve always loved helping people but I chose this field because of the people that helped me on my journey with my daughter. All the doctors, nurses, and speech therapists we met along the way inspired me to help others in any way I can. I look forward to meeting and helping CASOT families!
Ashton Roberson
Education:
- Studied Biology at East Texas Baptist University
- Studied Health Information Technology at National American University
Licenses/Certifications:
- Certificate Medical Assistant
- CPC
Membership:
- American Academy of Professional Coders
Experience:
- PUREDI (Behavioral Health Billing and Coding)
- RC Billing (Proton Therapy Billing)
- Touchstone Imaging (Radiology Billing)
- TMHP (Medicaid Billing and Provider Enrolment)
- Ascension Seton Network (Registration and Insurance)
Favorite Things to Talk About:
I love talking about my son every chance I get and showing off how cute he is! I also love discussing everyday events and different topics to get to know others.
How did you choose this field?
I’ve always wanted to work in the medical field, but I was more inclined to being on the clinical side of things. Although I enjoyed helping others, I learned while being a medical assistant I enjoyed the administrative side of the job more than clinical. My mom who is also in Health Admin, told me about medical billing and I began researching. I got my first job as a biller, and I was hooked ever since. I love being able to work on complex problems where I am sort of like an investigator and being able to find and solve issues. I am more of an introvert, but I also have a love of helping others. Billing and coding allow me to be comfortable in my own space but also helping patients get the best medical care with no worries on the backend.
SPEECH LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY TEAM
Amy Delk
Education:
- B.S. in Communication Disorders, University of Texas at Austin.
- Graduate work completed in speech-language pathology at UT Austin
Licensure - Licensed Speech-Language Pathology Assistant- State of Texas
Experience:
- Public School
- Private Practice
- Hospitals
Served as the UT Chapter President of NSSHLA
Community Involvement:
Certified/Licensed Tour Director
Favorite Things to Talk About:
I love to talk about my kittens, Mims and Rhannin and my puppy Beasley. Travel is my passion. I have been to West Africa to volunteer with a friend in the Peace Corps. The Highlands of Scotland is my favorite place to visit and spend time. I enjoy live music of all kinds. I love to talk and get to know new people!
How Did You Choose This Field?
I have chosen to be a speech therapist because I love to help people communicate and I have always had an interest in language, words, and reading.
Meredith Peyton Meagher
Education:
- B.S. in Speech-Language Pathology: Texas Tech University Health Science Center.
- M.S. in Communication Disorders: University of Texas at Dallas.
Licenses/Certifications:
- Certification of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language – Hearing Association.
- Licensed in Speech-Language Pathology by the State of Texas
- Vital Stim
- Neuhaus Dyslexia Program
Assistive Technology
Affiliations:
- Texas Speech Language and Hearing Association.
- American Speech-Language and Hearing Association.
- National Stuttering Association
- Texas Voice Project
Experience:
- Public School
- Private Practice
- National Stuttering Association
- Texas Voice Project and Assistive Technology Team
- Pre-verbal Program at the Callier Center Dallas
Parkland Memorial Hospital: FEES evaluations for adult patients, Rehabilitation services and Cochlear Implant Camp Facilitator
Pasadena ISD:
Implemented Phonics intervention program and established Pasadena area NSA kids support group through the National Stuttering Association.
Region 4 Houston area: Assistive Technology Implementation.
Favorite Things to Talk About:
My two kids! Recipes, music, speech and language newest research and interventions, movies, my doggie, Pearl; travels, my family, and connecting with new people and hearing their stories.
How did you choose this field?
A good friend of mine was in the Speech-Language and Hearing Sciences undergraduate program at Texas Tech University (Wreck ’em Tech). She would come home with interesting stories involving cochlear implants, stuttering, and traumatic brain injuries. This sparked an interest, so I applied, was accepted and the rest was history. I love interacting with people and making a difference in their lives.
Stacey Rosensteel
Education:
- B.A. Liberal Arts and Sciences; Communication Disorders; San Diego State
- M.S. Clinical Speech Pathology; Northern Arizona University
Licenses/Certifications:
- Certification of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
- Licensed in Speech Pathology by the State of Texas
- Level 1 PROMPT trained
Experience:
- Early Childhood Development
- Oral motor Development
- Down Syndrome
- Feeding Disorders
- Auditory Processing Disorders
- Autism Spectrum Disorders
- Voice Disorders and Speech Production Impairments
- Pediatric practice since 2002 in private practice, schools, and hospitals. I have been a graduate student supervisor for 9 years.
Favorite Things to Talk About:
My two young children and my husband, cooking, gardening, music, and theater.
How did you choose this field?
I knew I wanted to do something to help others and make a positive difference in their lives. I love this field and have found my calling to work with children with special needs and help them reach their highest potential.
Yvonne Smith
Education:
- B.S. Speech and Language Pathology and Audiology from California State University, Sacramento
- M.S. Speech and Language Pathology from California State University, Sacramento
Licenses/Certifications:
- Certification of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
- Licensed in Speech Pathology by the State of Texas
- Continuing education in Childhood Apraxia of Speech, including principals of motor learning and DTTC.
- Trained in PROMPT and the parent program It Takes Two to Talk.
- Natural Language Acquisition Trained
Experience:
- Early Intervention
- Childhood Apraxia of Speech
- Speech Sound Disorders and Autism Spectrum Disorder
Community Involvement/Interests Outside of Work:
I have served as president of the Sacramento Area Speech and Hearing Association (SASHA), and for several years I was a board member in my children’s school PTO. I love to read any genre, and I love creating materials to use in therapy.
Favorite Things to Talk About:
My super supportive family, that helped me get back to my home state of Texas!
How did you choose this field?
I always knew I wanted to be in a helping profession, and I considered teaching and child psychology. I started my college days thinking I would be a physical therapist, but the school I was enrolled in did not have a PT program. As I completed my general education coursework, before transferring to a PT school, I stumbled across an introduction to speech pathology class. I decided to check it out for the semester, and I was hooked. I love seeing the difference I help make with the children and families I work with. After 20+ years, I still love what I do!
Megan Moore
Education:
- Bachelor of Behavioral Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders, Hardin-Simmons University, Abilene TX
- Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology, Abilene Christian University, Dallas TX
Licenses/Certifications:
- Licensed in Speech-Language Pathology by the State of Texas
- Parkinson Voice Project SPEAK OUT!® Provider
- Hanen’s Four I’s to Socialize
- Natural Language Acquisition Trained
Experience:
- Pediatric experience in school settings and private practices.
Favorite Things to Talk About:
I love talking about my two dogs, Maizy (a mini Yorkie) and Maya (a lab/great dane mix)! They are the sweetest pups and have the biggest personalities. I also enjoy talking about sports; I love all sports and all teams so it’s always easy to root for someone. I’m still fairly new to the Austin area, so I enjoy learning about new restaurants and fun things to do around the city, as well.
How did you choose this field?
I have always known that I wanted to help others in a big way, and what better way than helping others communicate. I started off my undergraduate degree as an Education major, however I quickly fell in love with my language and literacy development classes. My advisor in school redirected me to the Speech Pathology program and I knew instantly that was where I was meant to be! I have loved getting to work with clients and their families and I am excited to be a part of the Capital Area team!
Julia Tomlinson
Education:
- B.F.A. Performance and Production from Texas State University
- Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from Stephen F. Austin State University
Licenses/Certifications/Training
- Licensed in Speech-Language Pathology by the State of Texas
- Parkinson Voice Project SPEAK OUT!
- Hanen’s Four I’s to Socialize
- Feeding Infants in the NICU and Beyond
- Natural Language Acquisition trained clinician through Meaningful Speech
- ADOS assessment
- Play Based Therapy
Experience:
- Private Practice
- NICU
- Outpatient rehabilitation center
Community Involvement:
- Round Rock Community Choir member and board member
- Mentor to current graduate students
Favorite Things to Talk About:
My incredible husband, Trevor, and my adorable dog, Milo. I love cooking, singing, traveling, theater, and hiking. I also enjoy discussing my field. Speech – Language Pathology is such a diverse area and being able to provide intervention for our precious clients is a true joy to me.
How did you choose this field?
As a 3-year-old, it is expected that they have 900 – 1,000 words in their vocabulary and are speaking in 3–4-word sentences. The first day I shadowed an SLP, I was able to witness a 3-year-old boy say his first word. The joy in that moment sealed it for me. From that moment on, I could not wait to help others find their voice and improve their quality of life. Being an SLP allows me to combine my loves of voice, feeding infants, and helping our children to develop into wonderful people.
Blake Colburn
Education:
- B.S. in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
- M.S. in Communication Disorders from The University of Texas at Dallas
Licenses/Certifications:
- Certification of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
- Licensed in Speech Pathology by the State of Texas
- CPR Certified
Experience:
- Home Health Care
- Public School
- Private School
- Preschool Language Development Program and MBS studies at Pediatric Imaging Center
Favorite Things to Talk About:
My dog Asher, my friends and family, movies, music, fitness, and travel.
How did you choose this field?
I always knew that I wanted to pursue a career in healthcare. The idea of being able to improve someone’s life from the inside out is very inspiring to me. I first learned about speech pathology when I was in high school while shadowing a long-time family friend who was an SLP at a preschool. I knew immediately that speech pathology was the career for me. This discipline allows me the opportunity to help patients of all ages overcome daily obstacles and succeed in their everyday lives. I am forever grateful for the field of speech pathology and I feel that that is reflected in my passion for what I do every day.
Lindsey Duncan
Education:
- Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders, Texas State University, San Marcos TX
- Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders, Texas State University, San Marcos TX
Licenses/Certifications/Training:
- Certification of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
- Licensed in Speech-Language Pathology by the State of Texas
- CPR Certified
- Beckman Oral Motor
- Hanen’s ‘It Takes Two To Talk’ Parent Training Program
- Level 1 Prompt Trained
- Level 1 PECS Trained
Experience:
- Pediatric experience in the school, private practice and home health settings
- Adult experience in outpatient/inpatient rehabilitation
Favorite Things to Talk About:
I love to talk about my favorite sports, football and basketball! I also love talking about my family and friends, food, working out, gardening, music, books, movies and anything that brings a smile to peoples’ faces.
How did you choose this field?
I first became interested in the field of speech-language pathology after a close family friend had a stroke, which impaired his ability to speak. I always knew I wanted to pursue a career involving language/communication, and after pursuing a Spanish degree the first two years of my undergraduate studies…I did not feel fulfilled. I wanted to pursue a career that combined my love of language and my passion for helping others, so I changed my major and never looked back!
My favorite part of this profession is not only helping people, but also the trust and meaningful relationships that I’m able to establish with my patients and their families.
Paige Engelke
Education:
- Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders, Texas State University, San Marcos, TX
- Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders, Texas State University, Round Rock, TX
Licenses/Certifications:
- Certification of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
- Licensed in Speech-Language Pathology by the State of Texas
- BLS/CPR Certified
Experience:
- Pediatric and adult experience at Texas State Speech-Language-Hearing clinic
- Pediatric experience in private practice setting
- Geriatric experience in a skilled nursing facility
- Applied Behavior Analysis clinic
- Pediatric feeding therapy
Favorite Things to Talk About:
I love talking about my puppy, family, football, and movies. I love to travel and spend my time on the water (paddleboarding or on a boat).
How did you choose this field?
I always wanted to work in a field where I had the opportunity to build relationships and fundamentally aid others to live to their full potential. I have found my greatest passion is to serve others who may be overlooked due to a communication or language disorder. My joy is helping a child find their words, whether verbally or with the use of an Augmentative Alternative Communication device. I am extremely honored to be a member of the Capital Area Speech & Occupational Therapy team.
Kristina Leach
Speech-Language Pathologist
Education:
- Bachelor of Science in Communication Disorders from Stephen F. Austin State University
- Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from Stephen F. Austin State University
Licenses/Certifications:
- Certification of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
- Licensed in Speech Pathology by the State of Texas
- Parkinson Voice Project: SPEAK OUT!
Experience:
- Pediatric experience in school settings
Favorite Things to Talk About:
My dog, family, friends, food, and traveling!
How did you choose this field?
When I was in high school, I had the chance to shadow a family friend that was a Speech-Language Pathologist. I had the privilege of getting to see one of her clients communicate functionally and effectively for the first time. The pure joy and excitement from the client in that moment fostered my passion for wanting to pursue this field!
Abigail Garcia
Education:
- B.S. Communication Sciences and Disorders, Texas State University
- M.S. Communication Sciences and Disorders, Baylor University
Licenses/Certifications:
- Certification of Clinical Competency from the American Speech-Language Hearing Association
- Licensed in Speech Pathology by the State of Texas
- Level 1 PROMPT trained
Experience:
- Early childhood development
- Speech Sound Disorders
- Stuttering
- Pediatric practice in public schools, private practice, outpatient clinics
Favorite Things to Talk About:
I love to talk about my husband, kids, and two dogs. I also enjoy talking about Pilates, music, travel, and cooking/baking.
How did you choose this field?
I was always interested in the medical field and learning more about science and anatomy. As an undergraduate student I began exploring professions such as respiratory therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. I fell in love with the introductory course for communication disorders and decided I wanted to learn more about how to help people improve communication skills. It was definitely the right fit for me since it paired helping people, science, speech and language!
Jordan Justis
Education:
- Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders, James Madison University
- Master of Science in Speech Language Pathology, Nova Southeastern University
Licenses/Certifications:
- Licensed in Speech Language Pathology by the State of Texas
Experience:
- Pediatric Experience in the school, private practice, and home health settings
- Pediatric Experience in ABA therapy
- Adult experience in outpatient rehabilitation
Favorite Things to Talk About:
My dog, Barney, and my partner, Tim, are definitely at the top of my list of favorite things to talk about! But I also enjoy talking about good restaurants in the area, music, and tv/movies (especially true crime and comedy). I really just love to talk about things that make others laugh and smile! I like to have a good time and joke around.
How did you choose this field?
Like many 18 year-olds, I was unsure of what I wanted to study in college. Someone suggested the field of speech & language pathology because I was going back and forth between an education or health care related field. After taking my first couple of courses, I realized how much I loved it and stuck with it!
Speech and language therapy is such a rewarding field. I love that we can address a variety of areas, at a variety of age levels, in a variety of populations. I enjoy working with families and collaborating with other professionals. Most importantly, I am energised by providing effective, functional, individualised treatment approaches to help each client reach their highest potential.
Michaela Ehm
Education:
- Bachelor of Arts in Hearing and Speech Sciences, University of Maryland
- Master of Science in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, University of Texas at Austin
Licenses/Certifications:
- Licensed in Speech-Language Pathology by the State of Texas
Experience:
- Pediatric experience in hospital (inpatient rehabilitation) and school settings
- Adult experience in outpatient dysphagia rehabilitation
Favorite Things to Talk About:
I love to talk about hiking or anything related to being outside, and do it yourself furniture projects. Since moving to Austin, I have enjoyed exploring hikes in the hill country and discovering several natural springs. I also spend a lot of my free time finding furniture to fix up into a style I like!
How did you choose this field?
After my brother (who is almost 10 years younger than me) was born, I spent lots of time teaching him new words, and from then on I knew I wanted to pursue a career working with children in a one-on-one setting. After exploring several careers within the health care field, I decided to become a speech-language pathologist because I realized how fundamental communication and feeding is to enjoying life and building human connections.
Rachael Reiber
Education:
- Bachelors of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Idaho State University, Meridian ID
- Masters of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from Idaho State University, Meridian ID
Licenses/Certifications:
- Licensed in Speech-Language Pathology by the state of Texas
- Licensed in Speech-Language Pathology by the state of Arizona
- Licensed in Speech-Language Pathology by the state of Idaho
- Certification of Clinical Competence from the American
Speech-Language-Hearing-Association - Natural Language Acquisition (NLA) trained
Experience:
- Pediatric experience in private practice
Favorite Things to Talk About:
I love to talk about a good book, my family, friends, and board games. I’m new to the Austin area so I also like to talk about good food and all the fun things to do around here!
How did you choose this field?
I have always had a passion for others and knew I belonged in a helping profession but wasn’t sure what avenue to explore. My mom had a friend who was an SLP and she suggested I check out the wonderful world of speech and language pathology. It clicked with me right away and I’ve never looked back! Communication in all its forms is such a powerful tool for connection and I feel like the luckiest person to be able to walk with individuals and families through this journey.
Jordan Tijerina
Education:
- Bachelor of Science in Speech-Language Pathology, Minor in Child Development, Texas Christian University- Fort Worth, TX
- Master of Science in Communication Disorders, Texas State University- Round Rock, TX
Licenses/Certifications:
- Licensed in Speech Language Pathology by the State of Texas
Experience:
- Pediatric experience in private practice and home health settings
- Adult experience at the Texas State Speech-Language-Hearing Clinic
Favorite Things to Talk About:
I love to talk about my family, my dog (Kimbo), college sports (football and basketball GO FROGS!), cheerleading and new restaurants to try.
How did you choose this field?
Growing up, I always knew I had a passion for working with kids. Originally, I wanted to be a kindergarten teacher. My freshman year of college I was introduced to the field of speech-language pathology and decided to change my major. As soon as I attended my first class, I knew this is where I belonged.
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY TEAM
Heather Celkis
Education:
- B.S. Occupational Therapy: Eastern Michigan University with Departmental Honors
Certifications:
- Certified to administer the Sensory Integration Praxis Test
- Therapeutic Listening Provider
- Michelle Garcia Winner: “Social Thinking”
SOS Approach to Feeding - Beckman Oral Motor Training
NBCOT Certified
Experience:
- Pediatric practice since 2001- both school and clinic based.
Community Involvement:
I served as co-chair for the Association of Pediatric Therapists in the San Francisco Bay area.
Favorite Things to Talk About:
My adorable little boy, a wonderful husband, and two very large cats! I also love to talk about international travel, fun things to do in Austin, and good books.
How did you choose this field?
I volunteered under an occupational therapist in high school and fell in love with the field and working with kids. I adore my job, believe that the best kind of therapy looks and feels like play, and can’t wait to help the kids here at Capital Area Speech and Occupational Therapy reach their goals!
Jennifer Glover
Education:
- B.S. Occupational Therapy: Texas Woman’s University
Certifications:
- Certified to administer the Sensory Integration Praxis Test
- Michelle Garcia Winner: “Social Thinking”
- Beckman Oral Motor Training
- Trained in Handwriting without Tears and Typing without Tears
Experience:
I started my career in 1998 working with adults in both the acute hospital setting as well as in patient rehabilitation. I have been working in a clinical and home health pediatric setting since 2001.
Favorite things to talk about:
I will talk about most anything! I love to talk about my wonderful family, traveling to new places, a good book or podcast.
How did you choose this field?
I have always wanted to work with kids and began to look at various careers that involved helping kids. I began to shadow an occupational therapist after graduating high school and was hooked. I absolutely love my job because it brings new challenges each day and I get to work and play with so many amazing kiddos!
Ellen Stimson
Education:
- Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology; Michigan State University; East Lansing, MI
- Master of Science in Occupational Therapy; Western Michigan University; Grand Rapids, MI
Licenses/Certifications:
- National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy
- Texas Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners: License to Practice
- Basic Life Support (CPR and AED) for Healthcare Provider
Continuing Education:
- MNRI Dynamic and Postural Reflex Integration
- Sensory Integration and Autism Spectrum Disorders
- Pediatric Functional Strength Training
- Strength Training in Children with Neurological Disorders
- Pediatric Motor Development
Experience:
- Fieldwork experience in outpatient pediatrics
- Fieldwork experience in skilled nursing
- Private practice (pediatrics)
Outside of Work:
I was born and raised in a small town in southern Michigan. I moved to Houston, Texas in 2018 where I began working in private practice pediatrics. My fiancé and I are new to the Austin area and have enjoyed exploring all the city has to offer. Outside of work you can find me planning my wedding, attending Cedar Park High School football games, exploring new hiking trails, and visiting with friends and family.
How did you choose this field?
I was first introduced to occupational therapy when a knee injury led me to receive therapy services myself. From my first experience job shadowing the profession, I knew it was for me as it allows me to combine my strong scientific background, creative problem-solving skills, and love of pediatrics.
Anna Pashas
Education:
- Associate of Applied Science Occupational Therapy Assistant, Lone Star Community College Tomball, Texas
- Bachelor of Science in Community Health, University of Texas at San Antonio
Licenses/Certifications:
- National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy
- Texas Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners: License to Practice
- Basic Life Support (CPR and AED) for Healthcare Providers
Continuing Education:
- MNRI Dynamic and Postural Reflex Integration
- Handwriting without Tears and The Print Tool
- Michelle Garcia Winner: “Social Thinking”
- Brain and Sensory Foundations from Move – Play -Thrive
- Zones of regulation
- Sequential Oral Sensory (SOS) Approach to Feeding
Experience:
- Pediatric private practice
- Pediatric home health
Outside of Work:
I am a native Houstonian who has just moved to join my fiancé in Austin. We have two beautiful dogs named Bella and Buddy. In our free time we enjoy spending time with family and friends, exercising, cooking at home, and listening to live music.
How did you choose this field?
I worked in an occupational therapy clinic as a tech during the final semester of my undergraduate degree. It did not take long for me to fall in love with occupational therapy. Each child has such unique abilities and gifts they bring to therapy. Seeing their smiling faces after they learn a new skill or take a small step toward a goal really makes me feel like I am doing what I was put on this Earth to do. I also believe in the multidisciplinary approach that a private practice can offer patients. I love to learn, and as a practitioner, I will always be eager to further my knowledge in the OT field.
Brenna Culley
Education:
- B.S. Health Science, University of Texas Tech
- Master of Occupational Therapy, University of Texas Tech Allied Health Sciences
Certifications/Training:
- Sensory processing
- Level 1 Intensive Mentorship at STAR research center for SPD
- DIR/Floortime
- Executive Function Disorder in children and adolescence
- Autism, Asperger’s, and ADHD
- Vision screening and vision rehab
- Minds on the Move Analysis of Movement from an NDT perspective
- iLS Certified Practitioner
Experience:
- Pediatric OT in outpatient setting for over 10 years
Outside of Work:
I am a native Austinite who loves to travel, listen to live music, go hiking, and spend time with my three fur babies. I have had the opportunity to visit over 20 countries around the world and love learning about different cultures and people’s unique experiences.
Favorite things to talk about:
Lots of things! I especially love talking about my two dogs, and my adorable special needs cat, Mr. Kitty, who has a rare neurological impairment.
How did you choose this field?
My mother was a preschool teacher in the northwest Austin area for over 20 years. When I was a freshman in college my mom introduced me to an occupational therapist who was working with children within the school. After meeting with her to learn about the field, I was offered a summer internship to work at an outpatient pediatric clinic. After that summer, I knew I wanted to be a pediatric OT!
Linnea Treder
Education:
- Masters in Occupational Therapy: University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences with high honors
Certifications/Training:
- National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy
- Texas Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners
- National Council for Behavioral Health’s Mental Health First Aid Certification
- Handwriting Without Tears training
- Zones of Regulation training
Experience:
- Fieldwork Experience at Kidz Therapeze in Killeen TX
- Fieldwork Experience at CHI St. Joseph Rehabilitation in College Station TX
Community Involvement:
I serve in youth ministry at my local church, working primarily with high schoolers.
Outside of Work:
I have a passion for interior design! Get me talking about HGTV or vintage home decor and I will never stop! I also love to host and cook for others; welcoming others into my home and gathering over a meal is so special to me. I am also a plant mama, I love to sing and play the guitar, and you can often find me on my couch snuggled up with a good book or movie!
How did you choose this field?
I was 10 years old when I decided that I wanted to be a pediatric occupational therapist. My younger sibling required occupational therapy services at a very young age. As the oldest sister, I felt it was my responsibility to be there for them so I insisted on being at every doctor/therapy appointment. I fell in love with OT when I realized that I could make a career out of playing with kids. I have loved it ever since!
Abby Gamez
Occupational Therapist
Education:
- Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sports Science with a concentration in Pre-Rehabilitative Sciences, Minor in Psychology; Texas State University; San Marcos, TX
- Doctorate in Occupational Therapy; The University of Texas Medical Branch; Galveston, TX
Certifications/Training:
- National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy
- Texas Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners
- American Red Cross CPR
- MOCA Cognition Assessment Certification
- CarFit Technician Certification
Experience:
- Fieldwork experience at Pediatric Therapy Specialists in San Antonio, TX (outpatient pediatrics)
- Fieldwork experience at Methodist Hospital in San Antonio, TX (inpatient rehabilitation)
Outside of Work:
I love spending time with my cat, Milo. I enjoy reading, watching a good movie, and exploring the Austin area. I also love spending time with my family and friends.
How did you choose this field?
In undergrad I happened to stumble upon Occupational Therapy during a meeting with my school advisor. I then experienced shadowing in various settings, specifically an adaptive sports camp with Dell Children’s and this is where I fell in love with the OT field. I love how OT is such a diverse field and can benefit so many different populations.
Allie Hertaus
Education:
- Doctorate in Occupational Therapy: University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences; Austin, TX; with high honors
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology: College of Saint Benedict/ St. John’s University; St. Joseph, MN
Certifications/Training:
- National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy
- Texas Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners
- American Heart Association; Basic Life Support (CPR and AED)
- American Heart Association; Heart saver First Aid
Experience:
- Doctorate Capstone work with Joshua’s Stage; Austin, TX
- Doctorate Capstone work with Little Land Pediatric Therapy and Developmental Play Gym; Buda, TX
- Fieldwork experience at Building Futures Pediatric Therapy; Monroe, LA
- Fieldwork experience at University Hospital-Reeves Rehabilitation, General Outpatient; San Antonio, TX
Outside of Work:
Spending time with my family is very important to me! I also love cooking, whether I’m trying out new recipes or whipping up cherished family dishes. Additionally, I enjoy snuggling up with my cat, Stella, and reading a good book or watching a movie. Some of my other favorite activities include getting outside, relaxing by the pool, paddleboarding, and exploring new parts of Austin.
How did you choose this field?
I have always had a passion for working with children and knew I wanted to make a difference in their lives. In high school, I nannied for a family, and one day, while discussing my college plans with the mom, she introduced me to the idea of Occupational Therapy, as she noticed how much I enjoyed helping her children reach various milestones. From there, I went on to shadow a pediatric occupational therapist and fell in love with the profession!
Marissa Cabaza
Education:
- Master of Occupational Therapy, University of Texas at Tyler
- Associate of Applied Science Occupational Therapy Assistant, Saint Philips College
- Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science, Texas State University
Certifications/Training:
- National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy
- Texas Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners
- Basic Life Support (CPR and AED) for Healthcare Providers
Continuing Education:
- DIR Floortime
- SOFFI
- Beckman Oral Motor
Experience:
I worked as a COTA for 7 years in outpatient pediatrics, home health, and inpatient adult rehab. I bridged to become an OTR in 2022 focusing on outpatient pediatrics.
Outside of Work:
I enjoy spending time with my 3 kids and husband at home. We love having family movie nights and lots of snacks. I also love taking care of my plants and propagating new plants.
How did you choose this field?
I originally planned on becoming a physical therapist but after talking with a career counselor they encouraged me to look into Occupational Therapy. After shadowing the OTs in a rehab hospital I found my calling.
Stephanie Kreller
Education:
- Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from Virginia Commonwealth University
- Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Neuroscience from Purdue University
Licenses/Certifications:
- National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy
- Texas Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners
Areas of Focus/Continuing Education:
- Autism Spectrum Disorders
- Sensory Processing & Integration
- iLS Focus System & Safe and Sound Protocol – Certified practitioner
- Zones of Regulation Training
- Certificate in Primitive Reflex Integration
Experience:
- Outpatient pediatrics / private practice
- School-based autism centers
Outside of Work:
I love to travel and explore nature as much as possible, whether it’s hiking a mountain on the other side of the country, or just exploring new local parks. I also love channeling my creative side with hobbies such as quilting, crafting, and the occasional woodworking project. When I’m not doing either of those things, you’ll find me relaxing at home with my husband and my dog, Ruby.
How did you choose this field?
I’ve always known that I wanted to work in the medical field, but when I took a summer job in college working as an in-home aide for teenagers with ASD, I realized right away how much I enjoy working with the autism population. Shortly after that, I joined an adaptive sports mentorship program, where I learned about the field of Occupational Therapy, and instantly knew I had found my perfect career. I love the way that OT allows me to blend my medical interests with my creative side to find the best interventions for my clients, and have fun in the process!