Teresa LaFranca
Saginaw,MI
Summary
Experienced Occupational Therapist specializing in sensory integration,who also uses the Print Tool and Handwriting Without Tears techniques. Focused on developing tailored intervention plans that enhance student self-confidence and independence. Skilled in collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and managing complex assessments and documentation.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Occupational Therapist
Saginaw Intermediate School District
Michigan, Michigan
10.2022 - 09.2025
- Collaborated with nurses, special-ed teachers, physical therapists, principals, paraprofessionals, and CNAs to establish safe, least restrictive environments for students ages 3-26.
- Conducted evaluation sessions using BOT-2, DTVP-3, Beery VMI, Hawaii Early Learning Profile, Sensory Processing Measure, The Print Tool, and professional observations; developed functional activity intervention plans for feeding, self-help skills, manipulation, fine motor skills, exploration, play, sensory modulation, and social interaction through group therapy; prepared students for IEP meetings through collaborative assessment interpretation and documentation via EDPLAN.
- Developed individualized treatment plans for students with diverse needs.
- Collaborated with teachers to assess student progress and adapt interventions.
- Implemented therapeutic activities to enhance students' motor skills and coordination.
OTR
Triumph Rehabilitation Inc.
06.2022 - 10.2022
- Evaluated clients with traumatic brain injury from motor vehicle accidents to inform rehabilitation strategies.
- Assessed clients and caregivers in homes to develop tailored intervention plans enhancing performance in ADLs, including self-care, bed mobility, wheelchair management, and leisure activities.
- Collaborated with direct-care staff to implement effective methods for achieving therapy goals using splints/orthotics, reducing limitations from contractures of upper extremities.
OTR
Selectcare-St. Francis Home
01.2022 - 06.2022
- Evaluated and assessed individual patients to recommend optimal treatments, utilizing adaptive equipment training to enhance success in ADLs.
- Consulted with direct-care staff to implement tailored therapy methods for patients with diverse diagnoses, including CVI, Parkinson's, and Dementia, improving patient care outcomes.
- Completed day-to-day duties accurately and efficiently.
- Contributed innovative ideas and solutions to enhance team performance and outcomes.
- Worked successfully with diverse group of coworkers to accomplish goals and address issues related to our products and services.
Substitute Teacher for Special Education
Will-Sub
01.2021 - 04.2021
- Facilitated activities promoting physical, emotional, and social growth for students with varying special needs.
- Provided nonverbal communication to offer comfort and encouragement to children.
- Supported students in enhancing feeding, toileting, and transferring skills.
- Experienced working with dedicated staff members on proper positioning, adaptive equipment needs, and medical diagnosis information pertinent to each student.
Education
Master of Science - Occupational Therapy
Grand Valley State University
Allendale, MI08-2021
Bachelor of Fine Arts - Detroit, MI
Wayne State University
Detroit, MI06-1999
Skills
- Knowledge of various standardized assessments for school-based therapy
- Therapy and training experience
- Mastered the Edplan documentation system
- Behavioral intervention
- Client-centered approach
- Team communication
- Work ethic
- Dedicated to maintaining the integrity and self-confidence of each student
References
- Elishia Licavoli, OTRL, elicavoli@sisd.cc, 989-429-3346, colleague
- Anna Marietta, M.S., CCC-SLP , Annalmarietta@gmail.com, 989-860-3550, colleague
- Deedee Boyd, Special Education Teacher, White Pine Middle School, dlboyd@stcs.org, 989-797-1814, IEP team member
Timeline
Occupational Therapist
Saginaw Intermediate School District
10.2022 - 09.2025
OTR
Triumph Rehabilitation Inc.
06.2022 - 10.2022
OTR
Selectcare-St. Francis Home
01.2022 - 06.2022
Substitute Teacher for Special Education
Will-Sub
01.2021 - 04.2021
Master of Science - Occupational Therapy
Grand Valley State University
Bachelor of Fine Arts - Detroit, MI
Wayne State University