Dr. Laura Mraz, OTD, OTR/L
Executive Director, Occupational Therapist

“In 2007, I established Eyas Landing where I first provided developmental therapy services for children in Early Intervention and have since grown the company to offer a wide range of therapy services that are provided in the clinic, home, school, daycare and virtually.”

Sarah H, MOT, OTR/L
Regional Clinic Director, Occupational Therapist

“I became intrigued with the field of occupational therapy while providing childcare for a boy who had cerebral palsy. I had the opportunity to join his therapy sessions and was blown away by the impact occupational therapy had in helping build his independence and engagement in everyday life.”

Dr. Jennifer K, PT, DPT
Clinic Director, Physical Therapist

“My younger brother was in Early Intervention and outpatient therapy for most of my childhood. I loved participating in his sessions whenever the therapists let me! The impact those therapists had on our family has always stayed with me… once I found Blue Bird I knew it was the role for me.”

Renee A, MS, OTR/L
Assistant Clinic Director, Occupational Therapist

“I have wanted to be an occupational therapist since middle school when I would volunteer in a nursing home. I discovered pediatric therapy doing my observation hours and fell in love with the career! Early childhood is my favorite setting to work in.”

Linnea V, MOT, OTR/L
Lead Occupational Therapist

“I always knew I wanted to work with kids in some way. After researching and shadowing different professions, I found occupational therapy and fell in love with it! I am passionate about providing meaningful and fun interventions to help each child reach their full potential.”

Alexis L, MOT, OTR/L
Occupational Therapist

“Growing up with a brother with ASD has changed my view on life; it has taught me not to take anything for granted, truly treat every individual with kindness, and celebrate small victories. I knew I wanted to dedicate my life to helping those with varying abilities and OT was the place for me to do that.”

Justine S, MS, OTR
Occupational Therapist

“I was introduced to the field by my mom who has Guillain Barre Syndrome. She shared that how a lot of things that I helped her with align with occupational therapy. What attracted me to the field initially was the holistic view that therapists take when working with their clients.”

Rocio T, MOT, OTR/L
Occupational Therapist

“I discovered Occupational Therapy when I was in college… I fell in love with the holistic aspect of it as well as how creative and fun it seemed. When I found out I could help children grow and reach their fullest potential through play and by celebrating the things that make them unique, I was completely sold.”

Melanie K, MOT, OTR/L
Occupational Therapist

“Throughout my undergraduate career, I volunteered and worked in various settings working alongside a multidisciplinary team of therapists. I remember observing an occupational therapist in an outpatient pediatric setting and thinking, ‘Wow, this kid is having so much fun!'”

Dr. Jessica C, OTD, OTR/L
Occupational Therapist

“Growing up, I knew I always wanted to work with children… While in college, I gained a much better understanding of what occupational therapy was, and I knew it was the job for me. I love being able to play a role in a child’s story and help them live a meaningful and fulfilling life!”

Hayley W, OTA
Occupational Therapist Assistant 

“My name is Hayley and I am a Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA)! I used to work here at Blue Bird Day from April 2021 until May 2022 as a Therapeutic Assistant (TA). I graduated from Fox College’s OTA program in May 2023 and am so happy to be back at Blue Bird!”

Eva P, MS, OTR/L
Occupational Therapist

“Through my life experiences, I developed a love of working with young children… I am passionate about working with the whole child in child-centered and play based settings and watching them grow, succeed, develop and watching them get excited when they learn new skills.”

Dr. Akhil S, PT, DPT
Physical Therapist

“After completing my clinical affiliations in Tennessee and graduating from Physical Therapy school in Virginia, I decided to move back home to Naperville, IL and enact positive change for the pediatric population in the Chicagoland area; ultimately bringing me to Blue Bird Day.”

Susan S, PTA
Physical Therapist Assistant

“Physical therapy was appealing to me because I’ve always been a very active person… I became educated on the benefits of physical therapy for children with an autism diagnosis and it fueled my passion for a career working with a population that is so close to my heart!”

Dr. Kelly B, PT, DPT
Physical Therapist

“I used to nanny for family with a child who had cerebral palsy. That introduced me to the world of pediatric therapy at a young age… I also attended physical therapy for a few injuries, which exposed me to the orthopedic side of physical therapy. Once I had a clinical rotation in pediatrics, I knew it was the setting for me!”

Dr. Kristin C, DPT
Physical Therapist

“I wanted to pursue physical therapy after I tore the labrum in my hip and was able to return to college softball without needing surgery after visiting a physical therapist. After that, I was introduced to a pediatric physical therapist and fell even more in love with the profession and found my passion for working with kids.”

Dr. Rebecca E, DPT, ATC
Physical Therapist

“After working with high school athletes as an athletic trainer, I followed my passion to serve a younger population as a physical therapist. I had my first pediatric clinical and instantly fell in love with the kids, families, and dynamic work style pediatrics brings.”

Bailey B, PTA
Physical Therapy Assistant

“Growing up, I watched my aunt recover from multiple intensive injuries due to a car accident. Her home health therapist helped her transform with months and months of therapy. After high school, I got a job as an aide in acute care to see if this was the field for me.”

Nicole G, M.S., CCC-SLP/L
Speech-Language Pathologist, Department Lead

“I became a therapist because of my love for communication! I truly enjoy empowering others to express themselves through their own means achieved in intervention… I went to EIU and fell in love with speech-language pathology!”

Elizabeth (Liz) M, MS CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist

“I took some Speech Pathology courses as an undergrad and found them interesting, which encouraged me to pursue my Master’s degree. My professional goal is to increase knowledge in SOS/feeding and Autism Spectrum Disorder.”

Nereida B, M.S., CF-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist

“I decided to become a speech-language pathologist due to my interest in both the school and medical settings… I have always loved and enjoyed working with young children and have had great experiences that allowed me to strengthen my interest in pediatrics.”

Sindu S, MS, CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist

“Since receiving a masters degree in Speech-Language Pathology in 2014, I have worked in a variety of pediatric settings including private schools, homes, and outpatient clinics. It is so rewarding helping children find their voice, engage with their world, and build relationships with others.”

Sinead F, MS, CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist

“I feel like I have always had the desire to work with the pediatric population… I enrolled in speech and language courses during my undergraduate years. I was instantly hooked! I have been working in Early Intervention alongside families to help their children reach their communication goals.”

Claudia G, MS, CF-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist

“My passion for working with children along with my personal experience receiving speech therapy as a child myself motivated me to pursue this profession. My professional goal is to increase knowledge and skills in the areas of feeding and speech sound disorders.”

Jennifer Q, M.S, CF-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist

“I’ve always had an interest in education and healthcare, and I found the field of speech-language pathology to be the perfect balance. Communication is imperative to daily life, and I enjoy empowering others to achieve their communication goals in ways that best accommodate their needs.”

Lily S, MA, CF-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist

“I enjoyed working as a paraprofessional each summer at my local school district’s Extended School Year Program throughout my undergraduate years. This experience introduced me to the push-in and group therapy services that Speech-Language Pathologists provide within the interdisciplinary team.”

Nicole H, MS, CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist

“I became a speech language pathologist because I was drawn to the possibilities that the field offers. I knew I wanted to work with pediatrics, but wasn’t sure in what aspect until I found speech language pathology and learned that I could help children with their development in a variety of ways.”

Tracy S, MS, CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist

“I first learned about the field of speech-language pathology when I was an attorney for the New York City Department of Education… I wanted to help children and families directly, and I saw that there was a great need for speech therapists. I took a couple of pre-requisite courses, and just kept on going!”

Kayla H, MS, CF-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist

“I found “Communication Sciences and Disorders” on my university’s website… I quickly found a love for making communication accessible to all. Whether it be children who have a developmental disability, teenagers who stutter, or even adults who have sustained a traumatic brain injury. I love it all!”

Cynthia B, MS, BCBA
Behavior Analyst, Department Lead

“It is exciting to come into work every day and be around people working toward the same goal: improving the lives of children with Autism. I chose to become a BCBA to help children learn to live fuller lives and to teach others to do the same. I can’t imagine a career doing anything else.”

Cory A, BCBA
Behavior Analyst

“As an older sister of two siblings diagnosed with ASD, my journey has been a lifelong one. I have had many jobs throughout my life that always led me to working with individuals with disabilities… As a BCBA, I have had the pleasure to witness individualized successes and growth that motivates me everyday to continue.”

Alisa C, MS, RBT
Behavior Analyst

“Growing up, I always knew I wanted to work with children with ASD or various disabilities. was torn between career choices when I learned about ABA… I love the opportunity ABA gives me to work directly with clients, build relationships with them, and see them progress and learn.”

Monserrat T, RBT
Lead Behavior Therapist

“Monse has helped so much with virtual client observations and baseline testing and support! She is always very helpful and prepared. Thank you, Monse, for always checking in and helping with the kids. Her kindness and hard work are so appreciated.” — Peer Testimonial

— Peer Testimonial

Bridget S, RBT
Lead Behavior Therapist

“I started working as a Registered Behavior Technician and I fell in love with my work and wanted to pursue a career in ABA. I learned more about schools and programs and now I am studying at Ball State University to become a BCBA to continue my love for this field.”

Ainsley A, BS, RBT
Behavior Therapist

“Growing up, I was always interested in working with children… Fast forward to working at Blue Bird, I found myself very interested and curious in ABA… looking for more information… and into ABA Masters programs in order to further my development and engagement with our families.”

Marc P
Behavior Therapist

“I’ve always had passion in helping children achieve their full potential, in hopes for them to have a happy life… I love working with professionals who have the same passion as mine and that’s why I found myself at Blue Bird day. I hope to bring my enthusiasm… to the team and make a difference in all of my clients’ lives.”

Kristen R, MS, RBT
Behavior Therapist

“I decided to become a therapist to make a difference in each kiddo’s life. The most rewarding feeling is when they have that ‘aha moment’ where a concept just clicks. My professional goal is to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) in the future as I enjoy Applied Behavior Analysis.”

Marchand H, M.Ed.
Behavior Therapist

“I have been a public educator for almost a decade, teaching primary students in kindergarten through 3rd grades. I have also worked for several years at a public library in the Youth Services Department. I am looking forward to further growing as a professional in the Behavior Technician position.”

Erendira (Eren) C, BT
Behavior Therapist

“Having had personal experience in taking care of someone with ASD growing up, I knew this was a passion of mine… I began working as a behavioral therapist. I enjoyed the field and science behind it so much that I decided to go back to school for my Master’s in ABA.”

Emma C, RBT
Behavior Therapist

“I have always enjoyed working with children with disabilities. I learned about Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) from a college class and I fell in love with it! I was one of the first people from my University to graduate with a minor in Autism Studies and Interventions.”

Hakeem J, RBT
Behavior Therapist

“I began as a paraprofessional at a therapeutic day school, and soon realized that I’d discovered a line of work I was truly passionate about. I wanted to continue exploring ways I could support children with special needs… which prompted my decision to become an RBT.”

Hannah P
Behavior Therapist

“I am passionate about learning and understanding mental health… While participating in internships with a focus on providing professional care to with those living with mental illness, it confirmed my decision to become a future counselor…. Blue Bird Day is another step closer to my career goal.”

Olivia B
Behavior Therapist

“I majored in Psychology because I knew I wanted to help people. I have always loved being around kids and I think Blue Bird Day is the perfect environment to put my degree to use. I also want to continue my education in Psychology and either become a Clinical Psychologist or a Child Psychologist.”

Caterina D
Behavior Therapist

“Ever since I finished my studies in Psychology two years ago, I have been looking for the right path. When I moved to Illinois, I started working as a behavior technician and I loved the job. So I started looking for a place where I could develop my skills and grow and found Blue Bird Day.”

Guadalupe R, BCBA
Behavior Analyst

“After I graduated with my undergraduate degree, I began working for a day program that serves adults with intellectual disabilities. It was at this day program that I was introduced to the world of ABA and seeing the work the BCBAs were doing inspired me to continue my education in order for me to work in this field.”

Alyssa R, MSW, LCSW
Social Work Department Lead, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Therapy Case Manager

“I became a therapist to utilize my innate skills of empathy and kindness to support those in need. I am passionate about working with children to support their social and emotional growth… I utilize creativity and play to engage students in the therapeutic relationship.”

Catie B, MS, DT
Therapy Case Manager, Senior Developmental Therapist

“I always knew that I wanted to work with children… The fluid and holistic nature of Developmental Therapy is what drew me to this specialty; plus, with an emphasis on relationship-based therapy and social-emotional development, I also love the fun, play-based nature of DT sessions!”

Katie M, M.Ed, DT, RBT
Therapy Case Manager, Developmental Therapist

“I’ve always known I wanted to work with children but didn’t know how until I found myself in the Special Ed. program at Elmhurst University and sort of fell into it. I received my Masters of Early Childhood Special Education from Elmhurst University and now work as a Developmental Therapist.”

Laura Z, MS, DT
Therapy Case Manager, Developmental Therapist

“Throughout the last 10 years I have worked with children and families in a variety of contexts, with individual differences, and cultures. I am interested in all the pieces that impact development, starting from the first days of life, which led me to obtaining my Masters Degree in Child Development.”

Selena G, MSW, LSW
Therapy Case Manager, Licensed Social Worker

“My nephew was diagnosed with Autism… I became immersed in getting him involved in therapies, researching how social work can relate to other forms of therapy, and how impactful it can be to provide social/emotional learning skills to young children on the spectrum.”

Shelby P, MSW, LSW
Therapy Case Manager, Licensed Social Worker

“I discovered my career path of social work during my undergraduate program while working at a summer camp for children with disabilities… I continued my education and obtained my Masters of Social Work degree… I am passionate about working with children to support their social and emotional growth.”

Michelle D, DT
Therapy Case Manager, Developmental Therapist

“My original passion was for teaching… When an opportunity arose for me to specialize in developmental therapy, I was drawn to the impact I could make with the one-on-one sessions. The joy that I see on a child’s face when they accomplish something they have been struggling with is pure euphoria to me.”

Jenna T, M.Ed, DT
Therapy Case Manager, Developmental Therapist

“I loved the idea of ‘bridging the gap’ by working with children during early childhood to encourage their growth and learning before transitioning to school. I have since enjoyed the holistic, whole child approach in developmental therapy and look forward to continuing to learn and grow in this profession!”

Kelsey D, LSW
Social Worker, Therapy Case Manager

“I was inspired by stories heard while working as a legal secretary for a legal guardian/GAL to help children. Once moving to Chicago, I earned my MSW and am still finding my niche! My professional goal is to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.”

Joanna W, MSW, LSW
Social Worker, Therapy Case Manager

“My passion was to always help people. I continued my education and obtained my Masters of Social Work degree. My previous work experience has been working with domestic violence victims, children with severe medical needs and adults with developmental disabilities.”

Morgan H, MSW, LSW
Social Worker, Therapy Case Manager

“Since graduating, I’ve been working with children and youth with special healthcare needs alongside an interdisciplinary care team, which has fueled my passion for working with children. Their strength and resiliency inspires me and drives my desire to help.”

Colleen M, DT
Developmental Therapist, Therapy Case Manager

“I started in Developmental Therapy at my internship at Eater Seals at Northern Illinois University (NIU) over 20 years ago. I had a wonderful hands on learning experience there. I was an independent Developmental Therapy provider in Illinois until 2010.”

Talecia R, RDN, LDN, IBCLC
Registered Dietitian Nutritionist

“Maternal and child nutrition has been an interest of mine since college. After having two children with feeding difficulties, one of which is on the autism spectrum, I have developed a passion for working with kids and families with feeding challenges.”

Amy C
Lead Therapeutic Assistant

“From a young age, I knew I wanted to be an educator. Once I discovered speech and language therapy, I knew that was what I wanted to do. I was able to get hands on experiences and fall more in love with it. The growth and learning that you can see in a child when they accomplish their goals is something magical.”

Sara D
Lead Therapeutic Assistant

“I always knew I wanted to help people, and fell in love with clinical therapy and areas like occupational therapy and speech language pathology… I am so glad to be here at Blue Bird Day to further my experience in pediatric therapy and strive toward my career goal of being a speech language pathologist.”

Bryher T
Therapeutic Assistant

“I worked with a few nonprofits in Chicago serving underprivileged kids that really sparked my interesting in therapeutic work for kids. Ever since I saw Blue Bird building their Wheaton location, I’ve been interested in joining the team! I hope to stay with Blue Bird and really learn and grow as a part of the community.”

Kelly K
Therapeutic Assistant

“I graduated from Illinois State University with a degree in  Human Development and Family Science and a minor in Children Studies. I want to help the kids reach their milestones and guide them to success in their growth and motor skills. My professional goal is to have a stable career, one that I love doing.”

Sarah B
Therapeutic Assistant

“The work I enjoy most is with kids. I had speech therapy when I was young, and loved my teachers. Having worked in a school, I see why it’s so important for kids to be well prepared for school. Additionally, I have studied a lot of Spanish and would hope to be able to use it and assist Spanish speakers.”

Nestor L
Therapeutic Assistant

“Volunteering at a school… serving as teacher at times, to volunteer coordinator, to lunch coordinator, to aftercare supervisor, to spiritual counsel, and lots of roles in between has been some of the most rewarding experiences in my life… experiences that led to providing aide to two good friends with autism.”

Caitlen W
Therapeutic Assistant

“I started working with special needs children seven years ago in the public school system and have never looked back. Working with children is a very rewarding experience and I look forward to the opportunity to learn and grow as a therapeutic assistant here at Blue Bird Day.”

Lizette P
Therapeutic Assistant

“I wanted to find a place where I could keep learning and growing my knowledge before applying to graduate school to become a Speech-Language Pathologist! I want to learn from the trained professionals at this facility and make connections with every one of my coworkers.”

Lindsay A
Therapeutic Assistant

“I decided to become a therapeutic assistant because I love working with kids and I love making a difference in the kids and families lives. I would eventually love to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst.”

Katie M
Therapeutic Assistant

“Katie has been such an amazing addition to orange pod! She is very helpful, flexible, and is always willing to learn. Katie is also doing an awesome job helping out wherever she can and it is very appreciated!” — Peer Testimonial

Yamaiyah J
Therapeutic Assistant

“I have always been interested in psychology and therapy, especially as it pertains to young children. I’ve decided to join Blue Bird Day to improve my skills and gain experience in pediatric therapy as I work toward my goal of starting graduate school for clinical psychology.”

Sherri B
Therapeutic Assistant

“I have a family member with Down Syndrome and have had some experience working with autistic children. Blue Bird Day is a great therapeutic program and I am looking forward to learning from the therapists and helping the children reach their individual milestones.”

Elise K
Therapeutic Assistant

“I hope to become a pediatric speech language pathologist because I feel the job aligns with my strengths! I have always enjoyed working with kids, value helping people develop and grow, and love to build relationship. Getting to walk alongside the kids in their journey is so precious!”

Samantha P
Therapeutic Assistant

“I have my Bachelors of Science in Psychology from Illinois State University and my professional goal is to finish my Masters degree and become a therapist.”
“I have my Bachelors of Science in Psychology from Illinois State University and my professional goal is to finish my Masters degree.”