Hi, I’m Tara.
I believe parent education is a vital component of the therapeutic process. When parents are informed and involved, they are better equipped to support their child's development and well-being!
Child-led sessions are fundamental in fostering engagement and motivation. By allowing children to take the lead, we can create a more meaningful and effective learning environment that respects their natural interests and pace…
Holistic treatment approaches consider the whole child, integrating physical, emotional, and environmental factors. This comprehensive perspective allows for more tailored interventions that address individual needs.
Using evidence-based practice ensures that our methods are grounded in the latest research and proven outcomes. This is partially why I am in the process of attaining a Doctorate degree to add to my Master’s.
I am a Board Certified, Pediatric Occupational Therapist. I am an entrepreneur and free lance therapist with an OT instagram: tara.theot.
I hold a bachelors of science in Psychology, with a minor in Healthcare management. I have my masters of science in OT and am in the process of acquiring my PP-OTD!
My areas of interest and expertise involve pediatrics and general upper extremity rehabilitation (non-splinting). I am also interested in acute care in a hospital setting, as well as teaching and mentorship.
Pediatric eBook now available on my Beacons page
Click the link here—> to my beacons account
https://shop.beacons.ai/taraamercedes2345/83d61083-3858-456a-90ba-625fd0078307
My Approach
I value client centered practice
Developmental
As a healthcare professional, I abide by the Developmental Frame of Reference. This model suggests that development is sequential, and actions are mainly influenced by the level of mastery a child or adult has reached in regard to that skill and integrated. Therapy addressing developmental milestones and delays will target sensory integration, coordination, bilateral hand use, visual perception, visual motor skills, fine and gross motor skill, etc. (2024 HOTheory)
Biomechanical
As a health professional that has gone through 7 years of education (3 of which were graduate), it is of absolute importance to adhere to the Biomechanical model during any sessions or evaluations in any setting, from school to outpatient to hospitals. This frame of reference focuses on the importance of anatomy and musculature, emphasizing alignment, therapeutic use of handling, strengthening and stretching muscles and tendons. The goal is to improve performance of and participation in a functional activity as occupational therapists. I also incorporate teachings found in the Neuro Developmental Treatment FOR and Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation. (2024 HOTheory)
Achievements
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Over 700 followers on OT instagram page
Reached Hawaii, Japan, the UK, AUS and around the USA
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1 Full Year of Pediatric Experience
Medicare practice, private OT services and school based setting
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Entrepreneur
Sold 10 reference packets for the NBCOT since march of 2024
NBCOT Guide
Pass the NBCOT by purchasing a concise, well written guide of everything that will be on the exam. My expertise comes from taking and passing the NBCOT with a 475 on my first try and my rigorous, but doable, study plan. This item is available via beacons.
Links You Need to Check Out
Resume and Certification & Liability
Below is my resume for 2023-2024. Also attached is my NBCOT certification.
Amazon Activity Recommendations
Below are links to activities I recommend for a variety of pediatric and adult usage- adults suffering from neurological or degenerative conditions can benefit from some of these games or tools as well.
Continued Education Certificates
Once you are a board certified therapist, it is essential to continue your education. AOTA requires that we complete 36 hours of CEU every 3 years.
Social media page
I have had a social media page dedicated to OT since I was in graduate school. This page has grown tremendously and introduced me to so many fellow OTs.
Testimonials and Recs
Get in Touch!
Schedule a free 20 minute, 1:1 session with me to discuss your OT needs for your child or loved one.
Schedule a free 1:1 with me for OT mentorship.
Please email taraamercedes@gmail.com for more information.
You might be thinking…
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Yes! I recommend creating and sticking to a routine. I personally use a physical planner but digital planners are best for zoom meetings, phone calls and meetings. For homework assignments, I recommend writing them down physically by date. Keep a close circle with your classmates, they will help you and encourage you.
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My guide is affordable for students. At currently $100 you can find all the needed material without taking up three textbooks worth of space. There are images and personal commentary sprinkled throughout.
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Absolutely. I have done so much within my first year as an OT and am looking forward to my future. Honestly, having a steady job will never go unappreciated. OT's will constantly be in need.
