Physical Therapist Assistant
Blue Bird Day Employee Since 2021

• CPR/First Aid Certified

• Autism

1. Become proficient in primitive reflex integration. 
2. Promote and encourage positive peer interactions through play (back and forth ball play, tag, parachute games, dancing, etc.). 
3. Help as many clients as I can to develop the motor planning coordination, strength, and engagement in tricycle, bicycle, and scooter riding. 
4. Author blogs that offer ideas to parents for fun physical therapy related activities to do at home. 

I decided to become a physical therapist assistant after having my first daughter in 2014.  At that time, I was working as a critical care veterinary technician in a 24-hour specialty animal hospital.  I’d been in that field for about 17 years.  While I will always be a huge animal lover, I was ready for a change, new challenges, and a more family-friendly schedule!  Physical therapy was appealing to me because I’ve always been a very active person, and due to injuries related to exercise/sports – I’ve had my fair share of experience being a patient.  When I began my schooling, my plan was to eventually work as an outpatient orthopedic PTA.   My mindset did a 180 when my daughter (4 years old at the time) began PT to address some physical challenges related to autism.   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!   

I love to support organizations and participate in events that benefit a good cause, large or small.

Associate in Applied Science Physical Therapist Assistant,
College of DuPage

The very first time I walked through the doors at Blue Bird Day in Wheaton, it felt like home.  I’m excited to go to work every day and see my clients and coworkers!  Blue Bird is an incredibly supportive and collaborative environment.  It’s an amazing program that I’m beyond proud to be a part of! 

Blue Bird Day fosters socialization, sensory regulation, and pre-academic learning in children ages 2–7 years in therapeutic rotations that simulate  preschool and kindergarten settings. Our compassionate therapists practice a relationship-based and family-centered approach, provide parent training, and collaborate on goals and individualized intensive treatment plans for your child.

We believe in a collaborative and multi-disciplinary team approach to therapy.  A team of occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, dietitians, developmental therapists, behavioral therapists, physical therapists, and therapeutic assistants are created for each child to ensure child and family are fully supported and the best possible results are achieved.  

Options for individualized, group and virtual therapy sessions are available as well. 

Want to learn more or you have a specific question? Feel free to connect with us here!