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.”

Amanda L, MA, CCC-SLP
Director of Program Development, Speech-Language Pathologist

“I received speech therapy as a child… While I can remember how my difficulty communicating affected me, I remember even more so the impact my speech-language pathologist had on me... I strive to do the same for other children by empowering my clients, and their families, to achieve their full potential…”

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.”

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!”

Jasmine J, OTD, OTR/L
Occupational Therapist

“Before starting college, I knew I wanted to work with the pediatric population but was not sure what healthcare profession I wanted to pursue. When I found the field of Occupational Therapy, I fell in love with the holistic and client-centered focus the career holds.”

Dr. Akhil S, PT, DPT
Physical Therapist, Department Lead

“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.”

Dr. Kelly B, PT, DPT
Senior 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. 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.”

Jennifer O, PTA
Physical Therapist Assistant

“While working in the public school system in special education, I had the privilege of witnessing that moment when something ’clicked’ and a new skill emerged. That’s when I realized I could make a huge difference in a little world, and decided to pursue a career in physical therapy!”

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.”

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.”

Aimie P, MA, CCC-SLP/L
Speech-Language Pathologist

“I was brought to the field of speech language pathology after a family friend had a child born with a cleft palate. I am now a mother of a child on the Autism Spectrum. This has shaped my therapy style. I love working with young children and appreciate the opportunity to foster their communication skills.”

Francesca A, MS, CF-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist

“I was previously a nursing major and switched majors during COVID. My aunt, who was in grad school for Speech-Language Pathology (SLP), introduced me to the profession. She also has a daughter with Down syndrome and I enjoyed watching her grow and expand her speech.”

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

“I chose to pursue a career in Speech-Language Pathology because I have always had a passion for working with children and helping others. One of the best parts of my job is connecting with kids on their level. It’s incredibly rewarding to witness their growth and confidence as they achieve their communication goals.”

Emily L, MS, CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist

“I’ve had the opportunity to work in early intervention the past several years. I truly believe language therapy can make an immeasurable impact on the children I work with. I have a passion for molding little minds and pediatric speech therapy has provided me the opportunity to do just that!”

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.”

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.”

Kristen R, MS, RBT
Senior 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.”

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, BCBA
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.”

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.”

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.”

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.”

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.”

Sara D
Behavior Therapist

“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.”

Katie M
Behavior Therapist

“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

“Katie has been such an amazing addition to orange pod! She is very helpful, flexible, and is alw

Kelly K
Behavior Therapist

“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.”

Caitlin K, RBT
Behavior Therapist

“I have always known that I wanted to have a job working with children. When I learned about Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), I knew it was the career path for me. Assisting children as they reach their goals is the greatest reward in this career.”

Shina T
Behavior Therapist, Therapeutic Assistant

“The mental health field is not just a career for me; it’s a calling. I am driven by a genuine passion for helping others navigate their mental health challenges and supporting them in their journey towards wellness. I am committed to providing empathetic and evidence-based care…”

John M
Behavior Therapist, Therapeutic Assistant

“I decided to become a paraprofessional therapeutic assistant because I was seeking more experience to work with our youth and this seemed like a great opportunity. This opportunity will help me pursue my future goals.”

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!”

Bailey B, PTA
Senior Therapy Case Manager, 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.”

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.”

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.”

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.”

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.”

Susan S, PTA
Therapy Case Manager, 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. Anthony M, OTD, OTR/L
Therapy Case Manager, Occupational Therapist

“After various searches and guidance from others, I found occupational therapy. I fell in love with the holistic view of therapy and having the ability to be creative… I love supporting children and their families to do what they want and what they value most in their lives.”

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.”

Dr. Jeff Salt, PsyD
Licensed Clinical Psychologist

“I’m  a Clinical Psychologist who specializes in assessment and diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorders. I’ve accurately diagnosed from 14 months to 55 years and hopefully put families, and individuals, on sensible paths to receive interventions and progress their skills. I’ve  worked at clinics, hospitals and non-profit agencies for individuals with autism.”

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.”

Bryher T
Lead 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.”

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.”

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.”

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!”

Abigail S
Therapeutic Assistant

“I want to help children who are struggling and meet them were they are at. My professional goal is to one day be an advocate for children with special needs.”

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

Jacqueline A
Therapeutic Assistant

“I’m a rising senior at Denison University majoring in Health, Exercise, and Sports studies with a minor in Women and Gender Studies. My goal is to further my education to become a doctor of physical therapy. My interests in sports and body movement has guided me to become a therapist. Currently my physical therapy interests are in supporting children and adolescents.”

Melanie F
Therapeutic Assistant

“I grew up working with children and adults with special needs specifically through performing arts enrichment programming. Last year, I was fortunate enough to develop and begin working as the Director of Kaleidoscope, an inclusive performing arts program, designed to welcome children and young adults with disabilities into the spotlight.”

Alyssa F
Therapeutic Assistant

“My background is in theatre, and I have always been passionate about fostering, exploring, and celebrating human connection. I started working with preschool-aged children (both in educational and enrichment settings) in 2017, and fell in love with the creativity, curiosity, and boundless joy of this population! I am currently taking coursework with the goal of becoming a pediatric speech language pathologist.”