About Cara
I began my career as an occupational therapist working with adults after earning my Master of Occupational Therapy degree from Duquesne University in 1997. I have known since high school that this was the work I wanted to do.
When my sons were diagnosed as autistic, my perspective shifted. I began learning deeply about autism, neurodiversity, sensory processing, and pediatric care - both as a professional and as a parent. That experience led me to open a pediatric occupational therapy clinic in Pittsburgh focused on caregiver education, which continues to serve families today.
As I searched for practical, trustworthy resources, I found that much of what families and professionals needed simply did not exist. I began writing the materials I wished I had; tools grounded in real-life experience that could support therapists, educators, and caregivers in meaningful ways. I also founded The Pocket Occupational Therapist, one of the earliest online spaces dedicated to sharing accessible occupational therapy resources.
My work continues to evolve through ongoing learning, emerging research, and, most importantly, the voices and lived experiences of neurodivergent individuals. Listening, adapting, and refining remain central to how I approach this work.
Approach & Ongoing Learning
I have always been a lifelong learner, continually engaging with emerging research and learning alongside therapists, educators, and caregivers. These connections keep my work grounded, relevant, and responsive to real-world needs.
Earning my Post-Professional Doctorate in Occupational Therapy deepened my focus on evidence-based practice and shaped how I teach, support, and translate complex concepts into practical application.
This foundation led to the development of the Executive Function Express™, a program designed to connect research with meaningful, real-life strategies that support participation and independence.
I value learning in community and believe that collaboration strengthens both practice and understanding.
Experience & Perspective
My work is shaped by years of clinical experience, ongoing learning, and a commitment to understanding what truly supports children and the professionals who work with them.
PRESENTING & TEACHING SINCE 2005
I provide professional training and education across international, national, and local settings, including conferences, organizations, and specialized programs.
Keynote and breakout sessions are available.
29 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
My extensive experience in pediatric occupational therapy focuses on translating complex concepts into practical, real-world application.
CERTIFIED AUTISM SPECIALIST
I have advanced training and ongoing learning grounded in neuro-affirming, strengths-based approaches to support diverse learners.
How We Can Work Together
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Training and presentations for state, national, and international organizations in areas including executive function, interoception, autism, regulation, and participation.
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Professional development and training for therapists, educators, and interdisciplinary teams seeking practical, meaningful application.
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Educational support and learning opportunities designed to strengthen clinical reasoning and real-world application.
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Guidance and mentorship for occupational therapy practitioners seeking deeper understanding and growth in practice.
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Consultation and expert witness services related to occupational therapy standards of care and clinical practice.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
Cara’s Values and Beliefs
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COMMITMENT TO ONGOING LEARNING
Learning is never finished!
I stay current through research, collaboration, and professional dialogue to ensure my work reflects current understanding and meaningful practice.
02
STRENGTHS-BASED NEURO-AFFIRMING PRACTICE
Therapy begins with the child. By building on strengths and interests, I support regulation, engagement, and meaningful participation in ways that respect individual differences.
03
RESPONSIVE TO EMERGING PRACTICE
Occupational therapy extends far beyond traditional areas such as handwriting. I focus on emerging and essential areas of practice, including executive function and interoception, to better support meaningful participation in everyday life.
At the Heart of My Work
At the heart of my work is a commitment to understanding the child, supporting those who work alongside them, and continuing to learn and grow within the field of occupational therapy.
I believe that when we shift our perspective, when we look beyond behavior and toward what a child may be experiencing, we create opportunities for more meaningful, respectful, and effective support.
My work is also shaped by two frameworks I have developed, the Roots to Fruit, Integrated Interoception Model™, and the Executive Function Express Program™. The frameworks are designed to support evidence-informed practice while helping professionals look beyond behavior to understand what is driving participation, regulation, and engagement.