We have a wonderful edition to the PTS Brandon clinic’s lobby! Special thanks to one of our parents, Brooke Elkins, who painted our new PTS logo on our main wall. Brooke is a talented artist who took time out of her busy day to make our lobby a happy and welcoming place for our patients and their families. See her work in progress and the wonderful final result in these pictures. Thank you, Brooke!
Blog post by Kaitlin Mulcahey, CCC-SLP
In August of 2016, I was given the opportunity to attend a mission trip through Orphan’s Heart at a malnutrition center in San Juan, Guatemala. When I heard about the trip through my church in Lakeland and knew it would involve working with the pediatric and special needs population I knew it would be a great opportunity. I attended this trip with a previous PTS employee and physical therapist, Miss. Gia. The trip started off by the plane having to make an emergency landing in El Salvador due to an issue with the brakes and the runway in Guatemala being wet, it was too risky. Where we arrived, there were thousands of people lined up outside the airport to greet their loved ones. After we made it through customs, we were sent to a hotel on a bus where we spent the night.
We headed to Guatemala in the morning. Our first stop was a coffee plantation where we were able to either go on a coffee tour or go zip lining. The next morning, we headed to the malnutrition center. The children at the center essentially live there because their families do not have the financial means and resources to feed them and provide them with a healthy childhood; the average income in San Juan is between 1,200-2,000 US dollars per year. These children live at the center and their parents and family have the opportunity to visit them weekly. The children are followed by a pediatrician, social worker and nutritionist and are sent home when all three professionals feel they are ready and once their families show they have the means to care for them.
While we were at the center, we worked to lead the children in daily activity time such as crafts, time outdoors, free-play and music time. It was essential that we spent time 1:1 with each child because many of these children were severely delayed in all motor skills. Some of the main things that stood out to me during this trip were the drastic differences between being a therapist in the clinic and being a volunteer at the center. As a therapist, the focus is often on age-appropriate skills and making improvements toward goals involving language, gross motor and fine motor tasks. At the center, the focus is on nutrition. It is not important if the children are feeding themselves and holding utensils properly, it is more important that they meet caloric needs. The nannies, who spend each day with the children, feed them as quickly as possible during each meal. There is often only one nanny assigned to each room of 10 – 15 children at a time.
The children are often required to entertain themselves, so they love when teams go out and visit them because they are given more 1:1 time. It was admirable to see that even though these children have close to nothing they were still so happy. I am looking forward to going back and learning even more from these little ones.
It’s that time of year again, when we get to celebrate all our blessings throughout the year. Holiday season is a fun time to enjoy and show love to our family and friends. This time can be so stressful to find the JUST RIGHT gift for our little blessings with varying talents.
We have developed a list of fun games and toys to match your little blessings’ wishes and talents:
Push toys or kid shopping carts: These are motivating for children learning to walk or children who seek heavy work through pushing objects. Developmental age 12 months and up.
Radio Flyer Cyclone Cruiser: Great for children at the developmental age of 3 years or higher, who have full sitting balance and can play without stabilizing their hands on the floor, who may not be ready balance wise for a bike. 75lbs weight limit
Kinetic sand: This is perfect for kids who love messy play. Developmental age 2 years and up. This sand-like material molds and sticks together similar to playdough but feels like sand.
Tents or Cranium Super Fort Building set: A great, fun escape for a child who is overstimulated by their environment. Developmental age 3 years and older.
Perler beads: Small beads that you can place on boards to form different art projects, shapes, or patterns. Appropriate for children with a developmental age of at least 5 years old, who do not place objects in their mouth.
Scratch N’ Color: A great way to incorporate drawing and tool use without having to do writing. Kids can draw pictures on black paper using a small wooden dowel that scratches off to reveal colors underneath. Appropriate for developmental ages 5 years and older.
Bath time squeeze toys or cups: Practice pouring and squeezing during bath time. Developmental age 2 years and older. Be sure your child can sit upright or is fully supported when incorporating fine motor play during bath time.
Busy Ball Drop: Working on grasp/ release with your child? Get a toy that is visually fun when a child releases the ball into it. Add a toy hammer, and you just included tool use in the fun.
Legos or building blocks: They make all sizes and types depending upon your child’s developmental age and if they place objects in their mouths. You can start your child with Mega blocks around the developmental age of 11 months.
Include bubbles and all kinds of whistles as stocking stuffers. These are great to improve your child’s breath control, work on deep breathing, blowing, and possibly decrease oral sensitivities.
Dress up medical kits: Your children have so many medical appointments; allow playtime to include doctor play and dress up to help decrease anxiety during these times as they begin to understand more about what doctors/nurses do.
Spot It!, Blokus, Rush Hour Jr, Head Bandz, Tapple, Mouse Match, Scatterpillar Scrabble, Diggity Dog, Don’t Break the Ice: All games for children with a developmental age of at least 4 years. Some rules may have to be adapted depending upon your child’s level. All of these games are easily adaptable.
The Physical Therapy Services team would love to discuss these and other ideas with you as the shopping season comes upon us. Also, see our Gift Giving Guide located in the lobby of both of our clinics for more ideas.
Our hope is for this season of giving and love to be full of enjoyment and peace
Caitlyn earned her Bachelor of Science in Health Science, Bachelor of Arts in Biology and Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Caitlyn’s passion is to assist children of various ages and diagnoses meet their developmental goals and promote independence. She loves collaborating with the OT’s and SLP’s at PTS to provide the most effective treatment for her patients. When Caitlyn is not working she loves to explore the beaches, restaurants, and scenery of Tampa with her friends and family.
Bissan earned her bachelors in Psychology and Health Sciences degree from the University of South Florida. She then earned her Doctoral degree in Physical Therapy from the University of Miami. Bissan is deeply passionate about helping children reach their full potential, both physically and developmentally. Bissan enjoys the ability to make a lasting impact on a child’s quality of life. She is passionate about empowering children to move, explore, and play without limitations. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with friends/family, traveling, and exploring various coffee shops, and outdoor activities.
Josie received her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Maryland and her Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of South Florida. She has always wanted to work with pediatrics and has experience in a variety of different settings from her time as a graduate student. She enjoys working together with families and is passionate about helping children reach their communication goals! In her free time, Josie enjoys traveling, reading, running, and going to the beach.
I graduated from the University of South Florida and obtained my Bachelor of Science in Psychology and minor in Communication Sciences and Disorders. It’s always been a dream to pursue this career, and to help kids who have the same difficulties as I had as a young child. My passion and drive are to pursue more school and receive my master’s in Speech Pathology in the near future. I enjoy creating a fun based environment for all my children during our sessions and building a connection with each and every one of them, and providing insight and tips that can be used at home. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my daughter and 2 dogs, spending time with family in Miami, or traveling.
Tiffany is a PTA who received her degree from Polk State College. Her plans for the near future are to continue her education and receive her DPT. She was drawn to physical therapy due to receiving it at PTS when she was a teen. She has always wanted to work in pediatrics and has over 5 years of experience. She also has experience with adults. She believes that physical therapy is not only physical, however, emotional as well. She loves to be creative in her sessions and make work fun. She loves connecting with her patients and helping to push them to reach their goals one step at a time. Outside of the clinic, she loves to spend time with her family and be active with them, always on the move!
Ashley earned her Bachelors of Exercise Science from Illinois State, and her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Bradley University. Ashley has experience working with the pediatric population in private practice and acute care settings. She also has adult experience in acute care neurology and orthopedics. Ashley’s approach to therapy changes with every patient and she prides herself on the adaptability of her treatment sessions with the ability to change it based on the patient. Outside the clinic, Ashley enjoys paddle boarding, watching hockey, spending time and the beach and traveling with family and friends.
Briar earned a Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Georgia Southern University-Armstrong and a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology at the University of Central Missouri. Briar is passionate about helping children reach their goals and grow in their communication abilities. Her areas of interest include Childhood Apraxia of Speech, Phonological Disorders, and Alternative and Augmentative Communication. Briar is trained in Dynamic Temporal and Tactile Cueing related to the treatment of apraxia. Outside of the clinic, Briar enjoys spending time with her pets and significant other, reading, watching hockey and baseball, and traveling.
Crystal graduated her Medical Assistant Program from American College in 2019 and obtained her Phlebotomist license in September 2021 from the National Medical Certification Board. She is currently attending FTC Lakeland to earn her Bachelor’s in Health Management. Crystal joined the PTS team in December 2021. She is always very happy, energetic and works tirelessly to make sure both her rehab tech and front office duties are accomplished. Outside of the clinic, Crystal enjoys spending time with her fiancé traveling, going to the gym, spoiling their fur baby Casey, executing house projects, and loves going to the beach to see the sunset.
Diana received her Bachelors of Health Science in 2004 and Masters of Occupational Therapy from the University of Florida in 2005. She has been a part of the PTS team since 2006. Diana is certified in Sensory Integration techniques and in the administration of the SIPT. She also received her certification in the TheraSuit Method in 2015. She shares her pediatric knowledge by mentoring future Occupational Therapists. Diana enjoys cheering on the Gators and the Lightning and playing outside with her children on sunny Florida weekends.
Emie received her Bachelor’s degree in Speech and Hearing Science in 2007 and Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from The Ohio State University in 2009. Go Buckeyes! Emie has been a PTS team member since September 2009. Her areas of interest include early language development, alternative and augmentative communication, and literacy. In her free time, Emie enjoys running, watching movies, reading, and playing with her cat, Mickey.
Graham has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration/ Financial Management from Florida Southern College. He has worked with PTS since 2005. Graham enjoys cooking, reading, outdoor activities, spending time with family and friends, watching sports, and playing with his children!
Karen has a Bachelor’s of Business Administration Degree with a concentration in Healthcare Administration. She graduated from Strayer University in 2017. She recently joined PTS and has over 30 years billing and insurance experience. Karen enjoys golf, cooking, and spending time with family and friends.
Kenzie graduated from Valdosta State University with a Master of Education in Communication Sciences and Disorders. She knew it was her passion to be working with pediatrics and has experience working with children who have Autism Spectrum Disorder. Her goal is to expand her knowledge of working with children who have feeding difficulties. Kenzie enjoys working alongside an interdisciplinary team and involving the clients and their families to create a treatment plan that best fits each individual child. Kenzie is from McDonough, Georgia and in her free time she enjoys traveling, hiking, watching sports, and spending time with her two dogs (Morrigan and Blaze).
Nikki graduated from Florida State University with a Master of Science Degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders. Nikki has worked in a variety of pediatric settings and has been with PTS since 2002. Nikki specializes in treating all different types of children with language/feeding disorders. She enjoys helping families become successful through her guidance with bottle and breast feeding. Nikki believes that by working together the family, child and therapy team will be successful. Nikki shares her knowledge and experiences through mentoring as a clinical supervisor for SLP’s during their clinical fellowship year. Nikki enjoys reading, movies and all dogs.
Sam Angela received her Bachelor‘s Degree in Business Management: Healthcare Administration at Polk State College in 2020. She graduated with her Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy from Florida Gulf Coast University, in May 2022. She believes that Occupational Therapy is not just a job, but it is a calling and is delighted to engage in diverse and rewarding experiences with clients. Sam Angela was interested in pediatrics throughout OT school. Although she is pleased to work with all age populations, her graduate fieldwork in pediatrics solidified her interest furthermore. Sam finds joy in witnessing children thrive to the best of their abilities; achieving their goals in therapy and in life (no matter how big or small). Sam was born in the Philippines and migrated to the United States at the age of 4. She enjoys music, dance, art, food adventures, and quality time with her family and friends.
Shelby earned a Masters of Education in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Valdosta State University. She has always wanted to work with the pediatric population and gained experience with pediatrics through her clinical experience during graduate school. She has a passion for working with early language delays, speech sound disorders, and children with autism. In her free time, Shelby enjoys cooking, reading books, and watching tv shows.
Hi, I’m Stephanie! I graduated from St. Katherine University as an Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) in 2023. After completing my internship with PTS I joined the team in July after passing my board exam. I am originally from Chicago, IL, and moved to the Tampa area in 2021. Before becoming a COTA I worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit as well as other pediatric units for 5+ years. I have always had a passion for the pediatric community and helping tiny humans learn and grow to their fullest! I am passionate about using play, crafts, and sensory to help children reach their goals to have a brighter and fulfilled future. When I am not at work I enjoy reading, being outside or near the water, watching golf and football (Go Bears), and being around those I love!
Taylor was born in Ohio and recently moved to Lakeland, Florida. Taylor earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development and Family Studies from Kent State University and a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy at Walsh University. Taylor is driven by the joy of helping children overcome challenges, develop essential skills, and reach their full potential in daily activities. Taylor has worked at a summer camp for children with special needs, outpatient pediatric clinic, and acute care settings, gaining valuable experience. In her free time she enjoys going for walks with her dog, spending time at the beach, and playing pickle ball.
Taylor is a Lakeland native that joined us at PTS in February 2022 as a Scheduling Coordinator and is now the Director of Billing. She is learning new things every day about the company and works diligently to help where she can! She is very excited to continue growing with the company and seeing all of your children’s smiling faces as they come in! Taylor enjoys watching her son play T-Ball and wrestling, going to comedy shows, reading, and spending time with family.
Maria earned her Bachelor of Health Sciences from the University of Southern Florida in 2018 and a Master of Occupational Therapy from AdventHealth University in 2021. She is passionate and dedicated to working with the pediatric population to achieve their highest level of independence. Maria is a bilingual occupational therapist and enjoys having the privilege to communicate with both English and Spanish families to address the concerns and needs of their child. During Maria’s free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, watching the sunset at the beach, reading, and traveling.
Jen is a graduate of West Virginia University and holds a degree in Sociology and Anthropology. After college she spent several years as an officer in the U.S. Air Force. She came to work at PTS after seeing what wonderful services they provided to one of her own children, and believes wholeheartedly in helping kids “be their best!” Jen enjoys spending time with her family and lots of outdoor activities in the Florida sunshine.
Domenica earned her Bachelor of Science in Speech and Language Pathology from Western Michigan University in 2019, and a Master of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Eastern Michigan University in 2021. She has enjoyed working with the pediatric population ever since having teaching and administrative positions in childcare and learning center environments. Domenica’s goal in speech-language therapy is to make it functional and fun in order to engage the whole family. When not at PTS, Domenica enjoys spending time outside, exploring new restaurants, beaches, and hiking trails, as well as sending postcards to her family in Michigan!
Zahraa earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders in 2017 and a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology in 2019 from the University of South Florida. She joined PTS in September 2019. Zahraa has wanted to work with the pediatric population since her undergraduate years and continued to gain experience in the setting through her clinical fieldwork in graduate school. She enjoys working with a variety of language, fluency, and speech disorders. Zahraa enjoys painting, photography, going to the beach, and spending time with her family and friends.
Sara earned her bachelor’s degree from Marquette University in Milwaukee, WI and graduated with her Masters of Science in Speech Language Pathology from Midwestern University in Downers Grove, IL. She recently made her move to the Sunshine State and loves being a part of the PTS team! She enjoys working with and treating kids of all ages and has a passion for development of language through song and play. She loves to explore her new city of Tampa, read, bake sweet treats, and kayak!
Hillary is originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She received her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Thiel College in Greenville, PA and completed her Occupational Therapy Doctorate at Gannon University in Ruskin, FL. As a beneficiary of occupational therapy as an infant, Hillary’s greatest desire is to pay it forward to her patients by helping them reach their fullest potential. In her free time, Hillary enjoys going to the beach, spending time with her husband and cat, and cheering on the black and gold!
Melanie started her PTS journey in 2018 as an office assistant. She continues her journey at PTS as a Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA). Melanie graduated from South University in Tampa as an Occupational Therapist Assistant in 2021. Melanie enjoys working with the pediatric population and is passionate about helping children reach their full potential in functional performance and skills. In her free time she enjoys outdoor activities, exercising and spending time with her daughter, family, and friends.
Maha is an occupational therapist from Orlando; she received her Bachelor’s in Health Sciences from UCF and her Master of Occupational Therapy from Nova Southeastern University. She has always been passionate about working with children, which was solidified during her intern and volunteer experiences. Her favorite part of being an OT is getting to foster connections with clients and their families. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, reading, being in nature, doing yoga, spending time with loved ones, and trying new restaurants and cafes.
Jennifer (Jeni) discovered her passion for helping those living with a disability when she was in elementary school and became best friends with her peers who were disabled. She went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Health and Human Kinetic from Warner Pacific College in 1999. She then earned her Doctoral degree from the University of Puget Sound in Physical Therapy 2005. She was trained in the TheraSuit method in 2006 and enrolled in the MNRI Core Specialist Training Program in 2018. She ensures that kiddos work very hard in PT, but also have fun and enjoy getting stronger! She has worked with a wide variety of rare diagnoses and likes the challenge that comes with complex neurological diagnoses. Her family moved to Florida in March of 2023, from Oregon. When she is not at PTS, she enjoys spending time with her family, working-out, crafting, and exploring the many beaches and attractions Florida has to offer.
Erica graduated from the University of South Florida with a Master of Science Degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders. Erica has been working as a Speech Language Pathologist since 2012 and has experienced in the charter school setting, nursing home setting and the private practice setting. Erica is currently certified by the American Speech-Language and Hearing Association. Erica enjoys treating a variety of children with various diagnoses. Erica utilizes a holistic approach when treating her patients and incorporates techniques from other disciplines whenever possible. Erica has a passion for helping others and truly enjoys working with the pediatric population. As a native Floridian, she enjoys activities such as boating, exercising, photography, spending time with family and attending sporting events.
Jassimine has a history of working in pediatrics. In her free time she enjoys spending time with her kids and exploring new places.
Gail joined the PTS team in 2007. Gail balances the many demands of the front desk while greeting families, children and staff with warmth and respect. She offers nurturing to everyone, growing the family concept that PTS strives for. Gail enjoys her interactions with children, families, and staff. She has learned so much from her interactions with the therapists and finds their jobs fascinating. Outside of her clinic, Gail enjoys being with her family and friends.