Hi there!
My name is Taelor (pronounced like Taylor)!
Welcome to the inside of my OT brain and (my own mini occupational profile).
First off, I’m an outgoing introvert, so I value my alone time to recharge, but also enjoy having people around and socializing. Running an online community is definitely my perfect balance. I am a Doctor of Occupational Therapy, licensed occupational therapy practitioner, aspiring entrepreneur, big sister, daughter, friend, and colleague. Some of my daily routines include going to pilates, writing, drinking tea, playing with my dog, Luke, and spending time with my loved ones.
What makes me, me!
Growing up, I lived in a sweet, suburban town just outside of Phoenix, Arizona and was the oldest of three with two little brothers. I have been through quite a bit in my life, which has made me strong, resilient, and determined to help others whenever possible! I also love all things natural and enjoy spiritual practices like mindfulness. As a child, I enjoyed the fine arts and took part in theatre and choir throughout my grade school career (K-12). Though I loved it, I gave up the arts to pursue a pre-med biology degree in college while working as a special education assistant and respite/habilitation provider. Since college, and singing all the words to that Augustana song, Boston, I wanted to live in, you guessed it, Boston. Luckily, I got accepted into an entry-level doctorate program out there, moved, and fell in love with the city. 💖
My OT Journey
During my OT program, I discovered a newfound love for research and was really drawn to educating everyone on childhood trauma, potentially resulting from adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) among others. Since my discovery, I strongly desire to bring about awareness of its prevalence (1 in 4 children) and its impacts on so many aspects of a child’s daily life and occupational performance. I was lucky enough to discover ACEs at a time when it was (and still is!) talked about in the world. People from various personal and professional backgrounds are starting to notice and care! It’s even being made into an AOTA community of practice because of the press it’s getting! I plan to be a part of that movement and bring trauma-informed methods to OT practice with children.
What It’s All About
So, that brings me to now. I’m a pediatric occupational therapist, back in AZ to be close to my loved ones, and am so elated to have my career in outpatient pediatrics. I recently launched a monthly newsletter (Endless PossibilOTs – you can sign up here) and have more to come soon for students and practitioners! I also am in the process of growing my own business to serve OT practitioners and students, and change the world of OT through advocacy and education. I’m nervous and excited all at once, which I know means magical times are ahead. One thing is for sure, I’m ready to make a difference in the world!
As for this website, Taelor-Made OT, it is all about helping occupational therapy students and professionals be the best they can be in all areas, and have a supportive community along the way. I hope to be a virtual mentor to you all and shine a light on the amazing profession that is occupational therapy.
Make sure to check out my first blog post on what occupational therapy really is and why it’s important. Then read this to learn more about why I wanted to become an occupational therapist. It’s a pretty remarkable story!
Thanks for stopping by, I hope you come again soon!