Occupational Therapists

Teresa graduated with her Masters degree in 2013 from Nova Southeastern University. Since graduating, she has worked in pediatrics primarily within the private practice setting. Her experience includes working with children with developmental delay, ASD, sensory processing disorder, fine/gross motor delays and handwriting difficulties. She uses a variety of treatment approaches including Sensory Integration, DIR/Floortime and Neurodevelopmental Treatment. She also has experience with the Handwriting Without Tears and the Size Matters handwriting programs.

Teresa seeks additional professional development opportunities to expand her clinical knowledge and enjoys working within a multi-disciplinary team for family centered care.

Cristina Rojo-Sirico graduated with a Bachelor’s in Occupational Therapy in 2005, and worked as an occupational therapist while earning her Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy in 2009 from Florida International University. She has worked with children in school and charter school settings as well as in the home and private clinical practice settings. She holds training and certification in Therapeutic Listening, Interactive Metronome, the Handwriting without Tears program, and the SOS feeding approach. Cristina has been a member of the Florida Occupational Therapy Association as well as the American Occupational Therapy Association.

Cristina is SIPT (Sensory Integration and Praxis Test) certified and enjoys treating sensory integration and processing disorders as well as working with children with autism spectrum disorders. Additionally, she has worked with children with a variety of other diagnoses including developmental delay, neurological impairment, visual motor delay, hypotonia, Down syndrome, and Cerebral Palsy.

Gaby graduated with her Masters in Occupational Therapy from the University of Florida in December 2016. Through her undergraduate and graduate career she gained valuable experience as caregiver to a special needs individual and volunteer for several Gainesville organizations. Helping in the community fostered a passion for helping children and their families. She enjoys working in a multidisciplinary team, helping children develop skills for the present and future. She has developed skills in treating a variety of diagnosis including developmental delays, autism, Down’s syndrome, and handwriting delays. Her professional goal is to gain experience and expand her treatment interventions to best fit the needs of her patients.

Hannah is an occupational therapist who completed her masters degree at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield CT in 2021. While completing her masters, Hannah was able to complete one of her level 2 fieldworks in a school setting, falling in love with the pediatric population. Prior to that Hannah received her bachelors in biology from Endicott College, graduating in 2019. While pursuing her bachelors Hannah was able to complete an internship at a hippo therapy facility, where she completed her thesis, which was later published, regarding client positive mindset and its impact on their therapeutic success. After working for the past year and a half at a skilled nursing facility Hannah is excited to follow her passion and enter the pediatric field! Hannah recently moved here from her home state of New Hampshire and she can’t wait to enjoy the sun and start at PPT!

Alexa graduated with her Masters of Science in Occupational Therapy from the University at Buffalo in 2019. Since then, she has worked in various settings such as school-based, home-health and out-patient. Alexa is passionate about helping children reach their full potential. She believes that occupational therapy can make a difference in the lives of children by helping them to develop the skills they need to participate in everyday activities. She is committed to providing high-quality care to children and their families. Alexa uses her therapy dog, Finley, to help children with a variety of disabilities. Finley has been trained to help children with their physical, cognitive and emotional development. In her free time, Alexa enjoys spending time at the beach and playing pickleball. 

Brittney graduated from the University of Central Florida in 2018 with a bachelors degree in Health Sciences, then continued her education at Keiser University to acquire a degree in Occupational Therapy Assistant in 2021. Brittney has four years of experience working with medically fragile children and those with complex diagnoses from ages 5 months to 21 years old in a professional setting. Brittney has first hand experience with cerebral palsy, autism spectrum disorder, down syndrome, muscular dystrophy, traumatic brain injuries, and those with behavioral disorders. Brittney‘s passion is to see the development and improvement of those she treats for sustainable results. Brittney grew up in Jupiter, Florida and enjoys hobbies such as going to the beach, singing at karaoke, socializing with friends, and building new relationships along the way.

Gaby graduated with her Masters in Occupational Therapy from the University of Florida in December 2016. Through her undergraduate and graduate career she gained valuable experience as caregiver to a special needs individual and volunteer for several Gainesville organizations. Helping in the community fostered a passion for helping children and their families. She enjoys working in a multidisciplinary team, helping children develop skills for the present and future. She has developed skills in treating a variety of diagnosis including developmental delays, autism, Down’s syndrome, and handwriting delays. Her professional goal is to gain experience and expand her treatment interventions to best fit the needs of her patients.

Eva Patel graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from The Ohio State University in 2012 and a Master of Occupational Degree from Nova Southeastern University in 2014. Since graduating, she began her career in geriatrics realizing quickly her passion resided in pediatrics. Fortunately, she has been exposed to numerous settings. Prior to moving to sunny Florida in September 2016, she worked for Ohio’s Early Intervention Services, schools involving students with mild-moderate-severe disabilities, and a hospital based outpatient pediatric clinic in Ohio for several years. Her experience includes working with children with ASD, developmental delays, Sensory Processing disorder, Cerebral Palsy, fine/gross motor delays, handwriting difficulties. She is excited to continue growing with Progressive Pediatric Therapy and serves children and families with a client centered and creative approach.

Janelle graduates with her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Nova Southeastern

University in 2022. She previously earned her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science and

Health Promotion from Florida Atlantic University in 2017. While in school, she researched and

studied handwriting development for 2.5 years. She has worked with children in school and

outpatient pediatric practice settings. She is certified in administering the Montreal Cognitive

Assessment (MoCA). Her experience includes working with children with handwriting

difficulties, ASD, fine/gross motor delays, and developmental delay. Janelle is dedicated to

helping children and families reach their goals in order to increase independence and school

readiness.

Miss. Jennifer Graduated from Keiser University in 2013 with an Associate’s of Science degree as an Occupational Therapy Assistant. Jennifer enjoys making a difference in the lives of children with special needs and their caregivers. She has extensive experience with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Fine Motor Delays, Developmental Delays, and Down Syndrome. Jennifer enjoys educating caregivers and teachers to provide consistent carryover with clients to encourage greater success for each child.  Jennifer is excited to be a part of the Progressive Pediatric Therapy team and is looking forward to learning and growing with such well versed therapists.

Karla graduated from the Master of Occupational Therapy Program at the University of Florida in December 2010. Since then, she has worked as a pediatric occupational therapist in various settings, performing evaluation and treatment of children from birth to age 21 in the home, school, and clinical environment. She has treated children with varying diagnoses and conditions including Attention-Deficit /Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Brachial Plexus Injury, Cerebral Palsy, Down’s Syndrome, developmental delay, feeding difficulties, and seizures. Karla has a special interest in sensory processing difficulties and pursues ongoing continuing education addressing children with these difficulties. She is also currently an Early Steps provider. Her professional goal is to communicate and work closely with families and other disciplines in order to ensure carryover and improve functional outcomes for the involved child. She recognizes the uniqueness of each child and strives to identify the priorities and strengths of each family unit in order to develop and achieve desired outcomes.

Lauren joined the Progressive Pediatric Therapy team in 2016 as an Occupational Therapy Assistant. In 2019 she returned to  Keiser University to further her career in Occupational Therapy,  receiving a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Occupational Health and has since earned her Masters degree as an Occupational Therapist. She brings a wealth of experience and passion for children and has developed skills in treating a broad range of pediatric disorders including Sensory Processing Disorder, ASD, ADHD, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy and developmental delay. She understands that each child is unique and strives to find a way to connect with each one in a fun and goal directed environment. Lauren enjoys working on a multi-disciplinary team and guiding families for skill development in their child.

Lidia graduated with an Associate of Science degree in Occupational Therapy from Daytona State College in 2017. She has worked with kids who had medically complex conditions and Disabilities from ages 1 to 13 in PPEC and clinic settings. Lidia has experience with a variety childhood and developmental diagnosis including: Autism Spectrum Disorder, Sensory processing disorder, Down Syndrome, ADHD, Cerebral Palsy, seizures, and Osteogenesis Imperfecta. She is passionate to work with parents, caregivers, and other disciplines to provide the most client centered intervention approach to reach a child’s potential. Her professional goals include expanding her education to provide evidence-based practice and to educate parents to carryover treatment at home.

Lukas graduated with his Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Kettering College, Ohio in 2019. He previously earned his Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sports Science with a Minor in Business at Nova Southeastern University, where he also played collegiate basketball for 4 years for the sharks. His experience working as a teacher and summer camp counselor for basketball camps and YMCA camps prompted him to pursue a career in occupational therapy. Lukas’s Occupational Therapy experience has predominantly been in pediatric outpatient clinics while also working inpatient at Dayton Children’s hospital. He has worked with a variety of patients with Autism, CP, Wolf-Hirschhorn, IDD, Downs’s syndrome, and developmental delays in outpatient and inpatient settings. Lukas continues to attend numerous continuing education courses on topics including fine motor skills, sensory integration, and Motor Assessment and Intervention to continue to give his patients the best skills to live a happy, independent life. 

Madison graduated with a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from Towson University in 2021. She has experience in preschools, home health pediatrics, and outpatient pediatric clinics. Madison is passionate about supporting children and their families in their daily routines and natural environments. Madison has experience working with children and young adults with Autism, developmental delays, Downs Syndrome, and Sensory Processing Disorders. Madison is committed to providing the highest quality of care for children and their families to help them reach their goals. Outside of work, Madison enjoys going to the beach, reading, and baking desserts.

Marlies completed her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from the University of St. Augustine in 2019. She previously earned her Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sports Science from The University of Alabama. Marlies has experience working with ages birth to age 21 in both pediatric home health and school based therapy. She has worked with a variety of diagnosis from CP, ADHD, Down syndrome, Autism, rare genetic disorders, and developmental delay. Marlies has recently moved here from her home state of Texas and has been enjoying her time in Florida and at PPT! Marlies is dedicated to giving her patients and families a client centered approach to therapy. 

Marlon graduated from Keiser University in 2022 for his Associates of Science Degree in Occupational Therapy Assistance at the top of his class. Marlon became interested in Occupational Therapy when he was searching for a career that can impact the lives of those he helps. Marlon is excited to absorb and implement all that he learns at Progressive Pediatric Therapy in order to provide the best quality care for those he treats. 

Meghan graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelors in Health Science in 2017 and earned her Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy in 2019 from AdventHealth University. She has experience working with adults in the inpatient rehab setting and with children in the school, home, and outpatient clinic settings. Meghan is passionate about working with children with autism spectrum disorder, developmental delay, neurological impairment, Down syndrome, and sensory processing disorder. She is excited to serve your child and family through a creative and collaborative team approach. Meghan and her husband enjoy bike riding, playing pickleball, and board games with family and friends. 

Melissa graduated with her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from Barry University in 2021. She previously earned her Bachelor of Health Science from the University of Florida in 2017. Her first role as an Occupational Therapist was in a sensory integration clinic working with children who have various diagnoses including Sensory Processing Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Developmental Delay, Dyslexia, Down Syndrome and more. She also has worked in the school setting as well as in home health. She has experience with emotional regulation, The PLAY project, SOS approach to feeding, handwriting programs such as handwriting without tears and size matters, and the listening program. She is currently working towards her certification in sensory integration. Prior to becoming an Occupational Therapist, she was a registered behavior technician working with Autistic children. Having a strong background in behavior allowed her to gain a better understanding of dealing with maladaptive behaviors and assisting her clients with finding more appropriate ways to deal with everyday stressors. She is dedicated to conducting research in order to provide evidence-based interventions to her clients. Melissa enjoys collaborating with her clients and families in order to best meet their needs and goals. Outside of work, she enjoys kayaking, working out, exploring new restaurants in South Florida, rollerblading, and spending time with family and friends. 

Naomi completed her Masters of Science in Occupational Therapy degree from Columbia University in New York in 2001. Naomi has experience working with children in the outpatient clinic setting as well as adults in inpatient rehab, sub-acute rehab, and in-home settings. She has a passion for helping others to achieve their highest level of independence in all aspects of life and recognizes potential in every client. Naomi has experience working with children with Down Syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Sensory Processing Differences, Emotional Regulation, Cerebral Palsy, and Developmental Delay. Naomi is certified in DIR Floortime and is a licensed Massage Therapist. During her free time, you can find Naomi walking by the beach with Oscar, her dog, reading a good book by the pool, or cooking up a new recipe in the kitchen.

Natalia received her Master of Science degree in Occupational Therapy from New York Institute of Technology in 2017. She began her career as a school-based therapist and worked many years in the NYC public school system. Natalia believes that establishing a therapeutic relationship and trusting environment is the foundation for skill building. She uses a multisensory and child-centered approach. Her goal is to empower children in feeling confident and being independent in their everyday lives. She has taken numerous continuing education courses in topics such as feeding, DIR Floortime, handwriting, mindfulness, executive functioning, interoception, and visual-perception. Natalia loves to spend time with her family and friends, travel, practice yoga, and go swimming. 

Romie graduated with a Bachelors in Health Sciences/Pre-Physical Therapy Track.  One of her professors from undergrad  thought she was a better fit for the occupational therapy field so she applied to the program and eventually earned a  Master’s of Science in Occupational Therapy from Florida International University.  She has over 10 years working with the pediatric population in various settings, specifically over 6 years’ experience as a pediatric OT.  She has knowledge working with a variety of diagnoses in the home health and clinic setting including but not limited to ASD, Developmental Delay, ADHD, Sensory processing, ODD, Fine Motor Delays, handwriting and CP to name a few. Romie has a special interest in sensory integration strategies and continuously strives to implement evidence based techniques that help with self-regulation, organization, and body awareness.  Romie enjoys providing services in the pre-school community setting .  Her passion is sensory processing/regulation as she believes this is key to improve attention for greater success and independence for children who have difficulties in this area.With a background in musical theater, teaching (pre-k) level, Romie is always excited to bring a fresh spin on existing treatment approaches.  She is a big believer in one size does not fit all and loves finding creative ways to make therapy fun and as “outside the box” as possible.Romie’s professional goal is to expand her knowledge on rare genetic conditions as well as improve her clinical reasoning on current conditions to better care for families.

Veronica attended the University of Florida, earning a Bachelor of Science in Health Education and a minor in Disabilities in Society. She attended Florida Gulf Coast University and graduated with her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy. She has a wide range of experience working with children with varying abilities through her engagement with Best Buddies and extensive childcare experience. Prior to attending OT school, Veronica was a registered behavior technician working with children of various ages with ASD. This provided her with a deeper insight and understanding of the interconnectedness of behavior and participation in meaningful activities. She has experience working with children with ASD, Down syndrome, developmental delay and neurological impairments. Veronica enjoys trying new coffee shops and hanging out with family and friends. She is very excited to continue learning and growing with the Progressive Pediatric team!