COLUMBIAMEMORIAL.ORG Early Spring 2026 5 “I took Health Occupations in high school and explored various health-related careers, which helped further solidify that pediatrics was the path for me. I also had the opportunity to work in the CMH Emergency Department prior to medical school. Alongside the physicians and nurses, I saw firsthand the impact our hospital makes in the local community and knew I wanted to be part of that when my training was complete.” QWhat can you share about your medical school and residency experiences? “I chose to attend a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) school focused on holistic, person-centered care, which has served as the framework for my professional approach to pediatrics. “When exploring my options for residency, I chose a program at Prisma Health Children’s Hospital in Greenville, South Carolina. I have served children with multiple chronic medical complexities; triaged acute patient decompensation in the hospital/clinic setting; and provided long-term disease management for patients with diabetes, metabolic syndrome, asthma and so much more.” QWhat does person-centered care look like to you in your job? “Person-centered care is intrinsic to the success of pediatrics, but it often looks more like family-centered care in our specialty. The entire family unit is what makes a child successful. For this reason, I believe it is vital to have them at the center of our care plan.” QTell us about your approach to pediatric care. “Each child has different needs and interests, and it is my mission to help meet those needs alongside their family’s goals. I want my patients to know that they are safe and supported in my office, that I will foster their goals for health, and that I will encourage them to be the healthiest version of themselves. My hope is for each child to leave my office feeling seen, heard and valued.” Full-time pediatric occupational therapy available at CMH Our occupational therapy team includes two fulltime therapists who focus on pediatric patients, from newborns to teens. Together, they have a combined 30 years of experience. Our pediatric occupational therapists help children and families improve participation in meaningful activities, which could include daily living skills, play and school skills, and social-emotional skill development. Treatment is tailored to the child’s and family’s specific needs and may include sensory processing interventions, gross motor and fine motor activities, and parent/caregiver education and training, among other things. The treatment space is equipped with therapy equipment like swings, a climbing wall and other multisensory play activities that are used during sessions to facilitate skill development. Interested in pediatric rehab? Patients need a referral for occupational therapy. You can bring a referral or ask your provider to send one to CMH Rehabilitation Services. Call 503-338-7555 for more information, or have your provider fax a referral to 503-338-7557.
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