I started as an OT for grown-ups.

I’ve known I wanted to be an occupational therapist since high school. I never considered anything else. After earning my Master of Occupational Therapy degree from Duquesne University in 1997, I began my career working with adults. But when both of my sons were diagnosed as autistic, everything changed. I dove headfirst into learning all I could about autism, sensory processing, and pediatric care. That journey led me to open a pediatric OT clinic in Pittsburgh focused on caregiver education, and I’m proud to say it’s still serving families today.

Back when the internet was just taking off, I struggled to find practical, trustworthy information to help both my clients and my own children. So I started writing the resources I wished I had—books filled with real-life tools for therapists, educators, and caregivers. Each book mirrors part of my journey as a parent and professional. I also launched The Pocket Occupational Therapist, one of the very first OT websites and blogs, to create a space where others wouldn’t feel alone on their path.

My career continues to evolve with each new experience, emerging research study, and—most importantly—the voices of neurodiverse individuals. I’m constantly learning, adapting, and refining my work to reflect what truly supports children and families in everyday life. Listening, growing, and honoring lived experiences remain at the heart of everything I do.

I’ve always been a lifelong learner at heart. Whether it’s diving into the latest research or chatting with fellow therapists, educators, and caregivers, I find so much joy in connecting with people who share a passion for making a difference. Learning alongside like-minded individuals not only inspires me, it keeps my work grounded, fresh, and full of heart.

My favorite saying is, “Love what you do, and you’ll never work a day in your life.” Returning to school to earn my Post-Professional Doctorate in Occupational Therapy deepened my understanding of evidence-based practice—and truly changed the way I teach and support others.

That passion led to the creation of The Executive Function Express model, blending research with real-life strategies that work.

CARA’S CREDENTIALS

What Makes Cara Different?

SEASONED PRESENTER

Presents at hundreds of international, state, local, and private conferences- most recently at the Australia Pediatrics SIG, PESI, American Posture Institute, Team Mario, & Occupational Therapy Association of Hawaii. Keynotes and breakout sessions are available.

27+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

With over 27 years of experience as a pediatric occupational therapist and a mom to two autistic sons, I’ve written multiple books and created courses that blend lived experience, evidence-based practice, and a deep passion for helping children thrive.

SPECIALIST

Certified Autism Specialist by the International Board of Credentialing & Continuing Education Standards

Let’s Learn Together!

Who Works with Cara?

  • Cara presents at state and local OT conferences in areas of executive function, autism, interoception, trauma-informed care, and movement.

  • Looking for a capstone mentor? Cara works with multiple universities to challenge students to think critically, solve complex problems, and demonstrate their readiness for work in their field. Capstone projects are often a highlight of a student's academic career and can provide valuable experience and skills for their future endeavors.

  • Cara consults with businesses to learn treatment strategies for executive function, interoception, movement, and trauma-informed practice.

  • Cara offers mentoring for OT practitioners looking for professional growth or seeking to ignite their passion for pediatric therapy.

or email me directly at CaraKoscinski@gmail.com

GUIDING PRINCIPLES

Cara’s Values and Beliefs.

01

ALWAYS LEARN

Learning is never finished! Do the best you can - when you know better - DO BETTER.

02

USE A CHILD’S STRENGTHS

We all learn more when we have fun. Considering the child and caregiver's strengths will improve outcomes. Support neurodiversity!

03

EMERGING PRACTICE IN OT

Occupational therapists work on much more than handwriting. Executive function and interoception are areas in which we SHINE!