Occupational Therapist

Hello! My name is Aster and I am an occupational therapist. I’m autistic ADHDer and a transman who celebrates his queerness and neurodivergence by searching for funky button downs, cuddling every cat who agrees to it, and trying new things that make me excited!

In the past four and a half years I’ve worked with children, adults, families experiencing homelessness, and in a public hospital - I love working with a little bit of everybody! My favorite part of being an occupational therapist is getting to know the people I’m working with so that I can empower them and their community to meet their deepest needs. I’m a total nerd and can’t wait to get to know you, your family, and your special interests!

Occupational Therapist

I am an occupational therapist with 3 and a half years of experience working with clients across the lifespan. My career began in an outpatient pediatric clinic in Chicago. From there, I worked in home health, and most recently, in early childhood education. I am passionate about promoting neurodiversity affirming practice and trauma-informed care in our public school system.

I have advanced training in responsive feeding therapy and DIR floortime. My areas of expertise include sensory/emotional regulation and feeding therapy. My favorite part of being an OT is cheering on my clients while maximizing their ability to reach their goals! When I’m not working with clients, I enjoy being active outdoors and spending time with friends and family.

Occupational Therapist

I believe every person deserves a space where they feel safe to be themselves and celebrated for who they are. As an occupational therapist, I’m passionate about creating that space alongside clients and empowering them to engage in what feels most meaningful in their lives.

I see occupational therapy as a collaborative journey, where we explore together what feels supportive and sustainable. My approach is rooted in neurodiversity‑affirming, trauma‑informed, and person‑centered care. I draw on sensory‑based, activity‑focused, and holistic strategies tailored to each individual’s needs and interests. I’m excited to join Roots & Wings and look forward to connecting with you or your child!

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

I am originally from Western South Dakota. I have lived in the Twin Cities since 2017 and have greatly enjoyed my time here. I share my home with two cats, Gibbs and Bleu, a dog named Cosmo, and a bearded dragon named Bernie. My fiancé and I currently reside in North Minneapolis, where we appreciate the sense of community in our neighborhood.

I graduated from Herzing University in 2020 and began working as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) at a Transitional Care Unit (TCU). While I gained valuable experience there, I have always been passionate about pediatrics and eagerly transitioned into pediatric occupational therapy. With over three and a half years of experience as a Pediatric OT, I am excited to further expand my skills and knowledge to positively impact a broader group of individuals.

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

I have a diverse, decades-long background in disability services, working with clients from kindergarten through retirement in a variety of settings and services. I earned my first degree in Communication Disorders and realized, 15 years later, that my true calling was in Occupational Therapy.

I believe in equity in the disability experience and love to celebrate the successes of others, no matter how big or small. I am fascinated by the brain-body connection and enjoy creating adaptive tools and working with other assistive technology. My favorite sensory activities are snuggling my cats, sorting fabric for quilting, and making music.

Occupational Therapy Assistant

I am new to Occupational Therapy after years of working in a nonprofit. My first degree is in fine arts before studying OT at St. Catherine University. I would travel full time if I could. I spent many years building houses with Habitat for Humanity before coming to Roots and Wings. It may seem unconnected, but both careers include learning from community, teaching new skills, modifying activities, working toward long term goals, and working directly with interesting people.

I love animals, traveling, making things, being creative, and my delightful dog. I am passionate about occupational justice, equity, and creating safe, healthy communities. Providing neurodiversity affirming and trauma informed care is important to me. My favorite part of OT is seeing growth, finding new techniques, and collaborating with clients on improving skills.

OT Administrative Coordinator

I am an Occupational Therapist and proud mother of an ADHDer. I have 33 years experience collaborating with families in the Minneapolis community, both as a therapist and as Director of Occupational, Speech and Physical Therapy for a local agency.

Over my career, I have been blessed to partner with thousands of families from diverse cultures, backgrounds and experiences to co-navigate the joys and challenges of neurodivergence. I am excited to take on the role of supporting and expanding the staff of Roots and Wings, to enable us to be readily available to all families seeking our services and unique expertise.