Ushma Sampat, MS, OTR/L, CAS | Founder and Owner
Hello! I am Ushma Sampat, your occupational therapist and your partner in progress!
I founded World of OT in 2017 because I wanted pediatric occupational therapy to be available outside of schools and clinics with more focus on providing holistic services where the parent is involved as the expert of their child. I love helping children of all ages to live life to the fullest by becoming more independent in their self-care and daily activities. I am strongly committed to the learning, development, and recovery of children of all ages.
Fun Facts
- My husband and I, along with our furry puggle, Luke, have been residents of San Francisco since 2012 and have grown fond of the beautiful sights and sounds of the Bay Area.
- I learned first-hand the joys and challenges of motherhood when I welcomed my first child, Dhir, in June 2018. And again with my second child in 2020. I am grateful for how the parent perspective also made me a better occupational therapist.
- Family time is crucial for me. Favorite family activities include: hiking, enjoying weekend picnics, and engaging in cultural experiences through travel.
- I’ve been an athlete all through my childhood and recently re-entered the arena and now enjoy participating in triathlons and marathons.
Training and Experience
- Bachelor’s Degree in Occupational Therapy from Manipal University, India
- Post-professional Masters Degree in Occupational Therapy from San Jose State University
- SPD ProCert 1: Certified provider for sensory processing disorders by STAR institute
- Powerfully You Training and Curriculum
- Credentialed Certified Autism Specialist through IBCCES
- Bal-A-Vis-X
- Handwriting Without Tears® Certified
- Sequential Oral Sensory (SOS) Approach to Feeding Program Certified
- Completed the coursework for Zones of Regulation® Program
- DIR Floortime Approach Certified
- Advanced skills in administering and interpreting pediatric assessments
I have worked with children ranging from preschool to high school and have extensive experience with children with sensory processing disorders, autism, cerebral palsy, intellectual disability, emotional disturbance, learning disability, ADHD, Down’s syndrome, and neurological impairment among others.
Tiffany Testa, MBA | Head of Operations
Hi there! I’m Tiffany Testa, lover of efficiency and organizer of people and processes as Head of Operations at World of OT.
After many fast-paced years as a litigation defense paralegal, I made the switch to the world of tech startup operations where I used my trained eye for detail and efficiency to help several brand-new startups grow from seed-stage to Series B and beyond. After my toddler was diagnosed with a neuroblastoma tumor and associated neurological disorder that required OT, I felt the pull to focus more time on him. When I met Ushma and the team and learned about their philosophy and approach to caring for little ones and the people in their lives, I knew I had found my next adventure. I’m thrilled to be a part of the team!
Fun Facts
- I’m a fiercely proud native of Wild, Wonderful West Virginia (Montani Semper Liberi!).
- A year after abandoning a decade-long infertility journey, my precious son Dominic surprised us out of the blue. He’s the sweetest, most joyful little soul and being his mommy is my favorite thing ever.
- For a few years after college, my husband and I lived in Baltimore, Maryland before coming home to West Virginia. We retain an affinity for all things related to Old Bay seasoning and crabs.
- Outside of work, I love yoga, experimenting with new recipes, learning new languages, hikes with my German Shepherd, Samson, and world travel. I’ve been to 18 countries and counting, and love to talk travel with anyone who will listen!
Training and Experience
- Master of Business Administration from Eastern University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Bachelor’s Degree in Multidisciplinary Studies from West Virginia University in Morgantown, West Virginia
- Associate’s Degree in Paralegal Studies from West Virginia Business College in Clarksburg, West Virginia
- Product Strategy Certificate from Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management in Evanston, Illinois
Liza Gerwig OTD, OTR/L | Occupational Therapist
Hi! My name is Liza Gerwig and I am a pediatric occupational therapist committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and their families. I am thrilled to be joining World of OT in the fall of 2021.
I began working with children in order to help support growth, learning and success in the most important settings they occupy. I believe most strongly in supporting the whole child – including physical, mental and emotional needs. With the help of you- their families, we will work towards reaching your child’s full, unique potential.
Fun Facts:
- I grew up in a small town in Western New York, which is most known for glass art and innovations
- I came out to California for OT school and moved to the beautiful Bay Area as soon as the stars aligned. So far I love it here!
- During my free time, I love to care for my two cats at home, paint watercolor, find new hikes around the area and explore the city.
Growing up, I spent summers swimming, boating, sailing (especially sailing) at my favorite place on earth, Keuka Lake.
Training & Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in Brain & Cognitive Science from University of Rochester, NY
- Masters and Doctorate degree in occupational therapy from the University of Southern California.
- Advanced Mentored Clinician Level 1 for sensory processing disorders by STAR institute
- Powerfully You Training and Curriculum
- Training in nature-based and animal-therapy approaches to pediatric therapy.
Abigail Miller, MOT, OTR/L | Occupational Therapist
Hi there! My name is Abigail Miller, and I am a pediatric occupational therapist with a devotion to helping children find purpose and meaning in their daily lives. My goal for each child is to become thriving, confident, and independent participants in their community.
I believe it is crucial to building close and long-lasting relationships with the child and their family. Therefore, I trust in using child-led and play-based approaches and collaborating with parents by using coaching and consulting methods of treatment.
Fun Facts:
- I grew up in the first town in the first state, also known as Lewes, Delaware.
- I moved to San Francisco after college with many unknowns and I haven’t left since.
- I enjoy spending time with loved ones, cooking, traveling, the visual and performing arts, making human connections, and finally cuddling with my two cats whose names are Art and Deco.
Training & Experience:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Human Service Studies from Queen’s University of Charlotte in Charlotte, North Carolina.
- Associate degree in Occupational Therapy Assistant from Delaware Technical Community College in Georgetown, Delaware.
- Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy from Cabarrus College of Arts and Sciences in Concord, North Carolina.
- Advanced Mentored Clinician Level 1 for sensory processing disorders by STAR institute
- Powerfully You Training and Curriculum
- DIR/Floortime Approach
- Masgutova Neurosensorimotor Reflex Integration (MNRI)
- Bal-A-Vis-X
- Sensory Integration and Processing
- Interoception Curriculum
Before going back to school to earn my Occupational Therapy degree, I worked as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) for 4 years with children from ages 2-12 years old in a variety of settings. I have extensive experience working with children with developmental delays, neuro-developmental disabilities, intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, Down’s syndrome, cerebral palsy, sensory processing disorders, self-regulation and/or social-emotional challenges, learning disabilities, and developmental coordination disorders.
Laurie Brown, MS, OTR/L | Occupational Therapist
Hi there! I am Laurie Brown, an OT with a passion for play-based therapy with children. I have worked in pediatrics for almost 10 years and enjoy collaborating with families, teachers, and healthcare providers to find the most effective and realistic treatment strategies. I approach challenges with a holistic perspective, finding the best customized solution to meet the needs of the individual child within the family and school context. Tapping into each child’s unique strengths while improving areas of need in playful and creative ways allows them to maximize their full potential. It is both incredibly rewarding and fun to facilitate this process!
Fun Facts:
- I lived in the Marshall Islands as a child and grew up on the beach
- I am a certified yoga teacher (RYT) with experience teaching both kids and adults
- I enjoy all outdoor sports including swimming, hiking and exploring Bay Area beaches with my
husband, two kids and German Shepherd Poodle mix Piper - I love to travel and have been to over 21 countries and counting
Training & Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Brown University
- Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from Columbia University
- Advanced Mentored Clinician Level 1 for sensory processing disorders by STAR institute
- Sequential Oral Sensory (SOS) Approach to Feeding Program Certified
- Completed Handwriting Without Tears Coursework
- Fieldwork Educators’ Certificate Program Workshop
- Primitive Reflex Integration Certified
- Therapeutic Listening, Quickshifts and Astronaut Training Certified
I have many years of practice evaluating and treating children with a wide range of diagnoses including autism, ADHD/ADD, cerebral palsy, Down Syndrome, global developmental delay, learning disability, feeding disorder, sensory processing disorder, Prader-Willi Syndrome and developmental coordination disorder to name a few. I am experienced working with a variety of age ranges from babies to adolescents in home, school and clinic settings.
Hailee Litchfield | Occupational therapy Student
Hi there! My name is Hailee Litchfield and I am an occupational therapy student at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences in San Marcos, California. I am excited to be at World of OT for my fieldwork experience!
I have worked with children a lot of my life through volunteering, school, babysitting, and family life, and have a special place in my heart for all the kiddos I meet. I strive to be a positive presence in a child’s life and support them on their individual journey to reach their goals.
Fun Facts:
- I love traveling and was able to study abroad in Rome and New Zealand while in college.
- I have a black lab named Luna that is my adventure buddy and really loves our trips to the dog beach.
- My family and I are big Bay Area Sports fans, especially the 49ers.
Training & Experience:
Academics
- Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of San Diego, 2021
- Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from the University of St. Augustine. Expected degree conferment: May 2025
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Level I Fieldwork Experiences
- UCSD Burn Institute, San Diego, CA
- Interfaith Community Services, Escondido, CA
- Pala Learning Center, Pala, CA
- Glenner Town Square, Chula Vista, CA
Kara Montilla | Occupational therapy Student
Hi! My name is Kara Montilla and I am an Occupational Therapy student at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences in San Marcos, California. I am excited to dive into my fieldwork journey with the World of OT!
With extensive experience in volunteering, school, babysitting, and family life, I have a profound affinity for children. My goal is to be a positive presence in their lives, supporting their individual journeys and fostering strong, client-centered therapeutic relationships with both children and their families.
Fun Facts:
- I was born and raised in Los Angeles County, California, and a second-generation Filipino American.
- I played competitive soccer from 5 years old until I finished my bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology.
- I enjoy roller-skating, the beach, traveling, and going on adventures to try something new!
- I’m fond of singing and hope to learn to play the piano in the future.
Training & Experience:
Academics
- Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiology Exercise Science from the California State University, San Bernardino, 2021
- Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from the University of St. Augustine. Expected degree conferment: May 2025
Level I Fieldwork Experiences
- UCSD Burn Institute, San Diego, CA
- Interfaith Community Services, Escondido, CA
- Pala Learning Center, Pala, CA
- Glenner Town Square, Chula Vista, CA
Before pursuing my Doctorate Degree in Occupational Therapy, I worked at the Pediatric Therapy Network as an Early Intervention and Social skills assistant. I have had the privilege of working with children across various developmental stages, and these encounters have significantly shaped my passion for seeking a career in occupational therapy. I am enthusiastic about applying my skills and knowledge to empower children to overcome challenges, maximize their potential, and thrive in their daily lives.
Juliana Bayley | Occupational therapy Student
Hello! My name is Juliana Bayley (she/her/hers) and I am an occupational therapy student at San Jose State University. I believe a strong therapeutic relationship is safe, collaborative, meaningful, evidence-based, and client-centered. It is my priority to foster this type of relationship with the children and families I work with.
Fun Facts:
- I love the ocean and have been a certified scuba diver since 2014.
- I enjoy exploring new places and trying new foods with my husband, son, and our dog.
- I have a small seasonal garden and I love growing my own food and transforming it into a home cooked meal.
Training & Experience:
Academics
- Bachelor’s Degree in Child and Adolescent Development from California State University, Fullerton
- Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy from San Jose State University – Expected degree conferment: December 2023
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Leadership
- Co-Chairwoman – Student Occupational Therapy Association (SOTA) at San Jose State University
- Student Representative – Occupational Therapy Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee at San Jose State University
- Membership Educator, Junior League of San Jose
- Chairwoman – New Member Education Committee, Junior League of San Jose
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Research Papers:
- Effectiveness of Mindfulness Interventions for Mothers with Postpartum Depression
- Fostering Civility In Fieldwork Education
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Level I Fieldwork Experiences:
- As Children Blossom Therapy Center in Campbell, CA
- All Access Sports, Santa Clara County in San Jose, CA
- Homeless Garden Project in Santa Cruz, CA
- San Jose State University On-Campus Mental Health Clinic in San Jose, CA
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Level II Fieldwork Experiences:
- Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center in Downey, CA
Prior to pursuing my master’s degree in occupational therapy, I worked in human resources and recruiting functions for Target Corporation, Apple, and Tesla. I left the corporate world to return to my true passion of working with children. I look forward to continuing my development and honing my craft as a future occupational therapist at World of OT.
Erika Miras | Admin and Pre-OT student
Hi! I’m Erika and I’m so excited to be working at World of OT while I prepare for OT school myself!
I have spent the majority of my life as a classical musician and music teacher (I play the French horn!) and now eager to become an OT (my twin is a PT) myself!
I want to use my love of routines, creativity, and adaptability to help others feel empowered and achieve their goals. I love how World of OT prioritizes focusing on children’s unique strengths in the therapeutic process, and I hope I can embody these values in my own work in the future!
In my spare time, I love meditating, baking cupcakes, and hanging out with Dale (my dog), Bailey (my cat) and Joe (my husband).