Our Team
Ushma Sampat, MS, OTR/L, CAS | Founder and Owner
Hello! I am Ushma Sampat, your occupational therapist and 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
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.
Sammi Parisi, MS, OTR/L | Occupational Therapist
Hello! My name is Sammi Parisi, and I am a pediatric occupational therapist who is passionate about using creativity, movement, and play to help children thrive. My goal is to create engaging, child-centered sessions that support each child’s sensory, motor, and emotional development while building strong connections with both the child and their family and team.
I believe in the power of building trusting relationships, using playful and meaningful activities, and supporting families through collaboration and coaching. My diverse background working with children in varied settings allows me to bring a holistic and personalized approach to each session.
Fun Facts:
- I am a certified barre instructor and former competitive dancer who loves incorporating movement into my sessions!
- I founded a mentoring program for pre-OT students to help them navigate their academic and professional journeys.
- I love traveling and learning from different cultures. A recent trip to Japan inspired me with its thoughtful, intentional approach to daily life.
- When I’m not working as an OT, you can find me teaching fitness classes, exploring new cities, or enjoying quality time with my friends & family.
- I’m originally from a beach town called Encinitas and just made the move to San Francisco. I’m so excited to explore the city!
Training & Experience:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Child Development, Psychology Minor – Cal Poly San Luis Obispo (University Honors)
- Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy – San Jose State University (Pi Theta Epsilon Honors)
- Advanced Mentored Clinician Level 1 for sensory processing disorders by STAR institute (in process)
- Zones of Regulation
- Prior to starting OT school I worked as an ABA therapist (BCAT certification)
I have experience providing services to children with a wide range of diagnoses, including cerebral palsy, developmental delays, traumatic brain injuries, genetic disorders, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, Down syndrome, limb differences, and muscular dystrophies, among others. My clinical background spans various pediatric settings such as outpatient clinics, public and medical-based programs like CCS, and school-based environments. Beyond clinical work, I bring over 12 years of experience working with children as a daycare teacher, tutor (grades K–10), and nanny, which has deeply enriched my understanding of child development in everyday contexts.
I’m passionate about supporting children through their unique needs while celebrating their individual strengths. I strive to make each session meaningful, engaging, and full of joy—because I truly believe that when children are having fun, they’re learning and growing at their best. It’s an honor to work with your children, and I’m committed to making a lasting, positive impact on their development.
Katrina Rockwell | Creative Growth Architect
Hello Hello! I’m Katrina, a growth-focused professional who specializes in amplifying brand presence through strategic social media management, innovative marketing, and streamlined workflows to help businesses reach a wider audience. My first job at 16 was in a salon, where I worked for 8 years before attending cosmetology school, completing a 2000-hour course. After 17 years in the salon industry, I transitioned to customer-facing healthcare and later to the startup world, where I applied my expertise in sales and social media.
Fun Facts:
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- I was born in England and have a deep love for travel, always seeking new adventures and experiences.
- I’m a wife and mom of two, and family is the heart of everything I do.
- I thrive on staying organized—whether it’s in my home or through social media strategy, I love to keep everything running smoothly.
- I really enjoy interior design and love creating beautiful, functional spaces.
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Training & Experience:
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- 2000-Hour Certification of Cosmetology from the International Beauty School of Martinsburg, WV
- Hands-on experience in social media marketing, sales, and systems optimization across multiple industries
- Some platforms I’m skilled in include Canva, Metricool, Notion, CapCut, Loomly, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook
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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).
Sammy Kretschmer | Occupational Therapy Student
Hello! My name is Sammy Kretschmer (she/her/hers) and I am an occupational therapy student at San Jose State University. I am so excited to begin my journey to becoming an OT and feel so grateful to be starting my fieldwork at World of OT. I have a plethora of experience working with children as a substitute teacher, babysitter, camp counselor, swim instructor, and tutor and have a passion for creating a supportive environment in which children can thrive and achieve their fullest potential.
Fun Facts:
- I love swimming and anything aquatic-related. I used to play water polo on the club team at San Diego State University, go Aztecs!
- One of my favorite occupations is knitting and sewing. This past year I have made one cross stitch throw pillow, three quilts, and one blanket.
- I love to read, my goal for this year is to read 12 books (1 book every month).
Training & Experience:
Academics
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- Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a double minor in Biology and Counseling and Social Change from San Diego State University- 2021
- Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy from San Jose State University – Expected degree conferment: December 202
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Leadership Roles
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- Co-Chair -Student Occupational Therapy Association (SOTA) at San Jose State University
- Student member – Occupational Therapy Association of California (OTAC)
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Research Papers
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- Effectiveness Of Occupational Based, Mental Health Interventions For Lgbtq Youth
- Exploring The Relationship Between Access To Occupational Therapy Services With Physical Activity And Quality Of Sleep In Adults With Parkinson’s Disease (Pd)
- “There Is A Paywall To My Happiness”—Unpacking The Role Of Socioeconomic Processes In Transgender And Gender Diverse Young Adults’ Experiences With Eating Disorders
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Level I Fieldwork Experiences
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- Coastside Pediatric Therapy Center in Half Moon Bay, CA
- Lifemoves Opportunity Center in Palo Alto, CA
- San Jose State University On-Campus Mental Health Clinic in San Jose, CA
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Observational Experiences
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- Functional Integrated Therapeutic services in San Diego, CA
- Smalltalk Pediatrics in San Diego, CA
- Palomar Outpatient Rehab Center in San Diego, CA
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I am so excited to be a part of the World of OT team and to continue my passion for supporting and working with children.