Melissa Van Kooten

Established the occupational therapy department by developing intake and evaluation processes, selecting assessment and therapy materials, and assisting in hiring new therapists. Provided skilled occupational therapy services to pediatric clients in both home and clinical settings through individualized assessment and treatment. Collaborated with families and other providers to facilitate the highest quality of care.

Provided mentorship to new therapists and opportunities for development of clinical skills.

Occupational Therapist - Steel City Speech

(2024-08)

• Established the occupational therapy department by developing intake and evaluation processes, selecting assessment and therapy materials, and assisting in hiring new therapists.
• Provided skilled occupational therapy services to pediatric clients in both home and clinical settings through individualized assessment and treatment. Collaborated with families and other providers to facilitate the highest quality of care.
• Provided mentorship to new therapists and opportunities for development of clinical skills.

Occupational Therapist - Mitchell's Place

(2021-01 - 2022-01)

• Evaluated and treated children with various cognitive, physical, learning and developmental disabilities, including autism spectrum disorder; Developed and delivered comprehensive treatment plans for clients in both educational and outpatient settings to address deficits in the areas of motor skills, sensory processing and integration, handwriting, and self-care skills.
• Collaborated with team members to ensure holistic, strengths-based delivery of services.
• Planned and led occupation-based small groups within the educational environment to promote development of a variety of daily living skills.

Personal Care Assistant/Special Instructor - Education & Behavior Consulting, Inc.

(2015-08 - 2016-09)

• Planned and implemented individualized behavior plans for children with developmental disabilities, ages birth-5 years; documented progress and outcomes.
• Recognized clients' behavioral, social, and safety needs, and utilized proactive and reactive strategies to accomplish goals.
• Initiated parent and teacher involvement in behavior modification to achieve academic and community integration goals.

Personal Care Assistant/Special Instructor - Education & Behavior Consulting, Inc.

(2018-01 - 2018-05)

Assistant Director of Youth and Family Services/Assistant Director, Camp SMILE - United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile, Inc.

(2016-10 - 2017-08)

• Organized and facilitated therapeutic interventions for respite program and residential summer camp serving children and adults with varying disabilities. Managed camp staff and volunteers, and supervised and educated recreational therapy student intern.
• Managed all aspects of respite care program including intake paperwork, ensuring compliance with grant standards, and providing resources to families.

Master of Science - Occupational Therapy - University of Alabama at Birmingham (2020)

Bachelor of Science - Therapeutic Recreation - University of South Alabama (2013)