Mary Thomas

Performed functional assessments to determine rehabilitation needs for acute and post-acute patients across multiple medical diagnoses Developed individualized transition plans considering patient needs, family preferences, and insurance limitations Demonstrated strong knowledge of OT and interdisciplinary rehabilitation principles in evaluating patient readiness and matching them to the appropriate level of care

Clinical Liaison / Rehab Specialist/prn OT - HCA Healthcare - Houston, TX

(2022-05)

• Performed functional assessments to determine rehabilitation needs for acute and post-acute patients across multiple medical diagnoses
• Developed individualized transition plans considering patient needs, family preferences, and insurance limitations
• Demonstrated strong knowledge of OT and interdisciplinary rehabilitation principles in evaluating patient readiness and matching them to the appropriate level of care
• Communicated effectively with physicians, case managers, nursing staff, and families ensuring accurate and timely exchange of clinical information
• Educated staff and referral sources on rehab admission criteria, therapy outcomes, and post-discharge care processes
• Prepared and submitted clinical appeal letters to payers, supporting medical necessity for rehabilitation services and level-of-care determinations
• Documented clinical findings and admission recommendations in compliance with HIPAA and facility protocols

Occupational Therapist (Part-Time) - Fox Rehabilitation - Houston, TX

(2024-10 - 2026-06)

• Evaluate and treat older adults in assisted living and outpatient settings, focusing on functional independence, aging in place, and fall prevention
• Apply advanced OT theory and evidence-based interventions tailored to individual performance patterns
• Conduct comprehensive functional assessments, including ROM, cognition, ADL/IADL performance, balance, and safety to identify deficits and design targeted intervention plans
• Adapt tasks, modify home environments, and recommend assistive technology or durable medical equipment to support patient independence
• Fabricate and fit custom orthoses and adaptive devices for upper extremity support or joint protection, and train patients and caregivers on usage and maintenance
• Document evaluation findings, treatment progress, and outcomes in compliance with CMS and facility standards ensuring clarity and accuracy for interdisciplinary review
• Collaborate with nurses, PTs, social workers, and family members to coordinate patient-centered care
• Educate patients and caregivers on home programs, fall prevention, joint protection, and energy conservation, and self-management strategies

Adjunct Lab Fieldwork Instructor - St. Catherine University, OTA Program - Remote/Houston, TX

(2025-07 - 2026-07)

• Instruct and mentor OTA students in laboratory and early clinical fieldwork, emphasizing core OT principles, ethics, and evidence-based practice
• Deliver hands-on skills training in therapeutic activities, assistive technology, adaptive techniques, and standardized assessments
• Evaluate student performance and provide constructive feedback on clinical reasoning, documentation, and communication
• Facilitate in-service sessions on professional conduct, cultural competency, and therapeutic use of self
• Collaborate with academic coordinators, clinical sites, and fellow instructors to ensure alignment with ACOTE standards

Occupational Therapist (PRN) - Memorial Hermann Health System - Houston, TX

(2017-12 - 2021-12)

• Delivered comprehensive OT interventions across acute, inpatient rehab, and outpatient settings for orthopedic, neurological, and post-surgical populations
• Assessed patients' functional mobility, ADLs, cognitive performance, and psychosocial adjustment, formulating individualized treatment goals based on measurable outcomes
• Modified interventions based on patients' physical and cognitive status ensuring therapeutic progression
• Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams for discharge planning and care coordination
• Educated and trained patients and families on adaptive techniques, energy conservation, and home safety

Occupational/Hand Therapist (Part-Time) - Hand and Wrist Center of Houston - Houston, TX

(2014-07 - 2022-05)

• Evaluated and treated pediatric and adult patients with upper extremity injuries, including tendon repairs, fractures, nerve compressions, and repetitive strain conditions
• Fabricated, adjusted, and modified orthoses and splints for function restoration
• Conducted manual therapy, scar management, and neuromuscular re-education techniques
• Developed home exercise programs with written/verbal instruction to promote compliance and safety
• Provided in-service sessions on splint fabrication and ergonomics to OT interns and support staff

Occupational/Hand Therapist (On-Call) - Select Physical Therapy - Houston, TX

(2011-02 - 2014-07)

• Treated patients with upper extremity injuries and post-surgical conditions using evidence-based protocols for rehabilitation and recovery
• Designed and fabricated custom splints and adaptive supports
• Collaborated with physicians and interdisciplinary teams to track progress, modify treatment and coordinate discharge planning
• Conducted educational in-services on tendon protocols and orthotic fabrication

Director of Rehabilitation / Staff Occupational Therapist - EnduraCare - Houston, TX

(2008-06 - 2009-12)

• Directed rehab department operations and multidisciplinary therapy services
• Conducted clinical training and in-services for staff
• Provided direct OT interventions and adapted tasks to maximize patient engagement
• Collaborated with administrators and leadership to optimize departmental efficiency
• Supervised orthoses and adaptive equipment use

Occupational Therapist (PRN) - Bayou City Home Health - Houston, TX

(2007-06 - 2009-06)

• Delivered home-based occupational therapy services to pediatric and adult patients with orthopedic, neurological, and chronic conditions
• Conducted environmental assessments and implemented home modifications
• Adapted treatment activities for carryover and safety
• Collaborated with physicians, nurses, caregivers, and families of patients for continuity of care
• Educated patients and families on fall prevention and functional mobility

Director of Rehabilitation / Occupational Therapist (PRN) - RehabCare - Houston, TX

(2006-01 - 2011-01)

• Supervised therapy operations and managed a multidisciplinary team of OT, PT, and SLP professionals across skilled nursing and rehab settings
• Ensured OT service delivery aligns with clinical standards and Medicare compliance
• Provided clinical training and in-services on documentation, billing, and treatment protocols
• Designed and implemented clinical competency programs for therapist proficiency and regulatory compliance
• Collaborated with nursing leadership to enhance communication, patient satisfaction, and staff retention

Occupational Therapist (Full-Time) - Memorial Hermann Health System - Houston, TX

(2005-06 - 2008-11)

• Provided OT services in acute care, inpatient rehab, long-term care, and outpatient settings
• Assessed and treated patients with orthopedic, neurological, cardiopulmonary, and geriatric conditions using evidence-based OT interventions
• Developed individualized treatment plans using clinical reasoning and functional analysis
• Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to ensure coordinated, patient-centered care
• Supervised OT assistants and ensure accurate documentation
• Fabricated and modified splints, orthoses, and adaptive equipment to meet post-surgical and chronic needs

PHD - ELO - Texas Womans' University

Doctor of Occupational Therapy - Bay Path University (2017-12 - 2019-06)

Master of Occupational Therapy - Texas Woman's University (2000-12 - 2002-12)

Master of Education - Educational Administration - University of Houston–Victoria (1997-12 - 1999-12)

Bachelor of Science - Biology - University of Houston (1992-08 - 1996-05)