DICP Staff

Sena OTR/L

Position:

Occupational Therapist Owner

Biography:

Sena received her BA in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and a BS in Occupational Therapy from the University of Puget Sound. Before joining the therapy staff at DICP, Sena worked in acute care rehab at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, at a skilled nursing facility and private school based setting in the Greater DC area, as well as a multi-disciplinary pediatric facility in Egypt. Sena became a co-owner of Development is Child’s Play in 2017. Sena is certified in the administration and interpretation of the Sensory Integration and Praxis Test (SIPT) and is trained in reflex integration, feeding, animal-assisted therapy and several forms of therapeutic listening including iLS, The Listening Program, and Therapeutic Listening. She enjoys mentoring therapists and is inspired to create a practice that not only empowers children and their families but also empowers the amazing staff and team of therapists at Development is Child’s Play to be their best and sparks their own growth and development.

Sena says:

“I became an OT because it was important to me to have a career where I made a positive impact and contributed to the overall well-being of others. I became a business owner because I wanted to guide the practice towards a more holistic approach of meeting the needs of our families in a way that is much greater than I could ever do as an individual therapist, while still maintaining the same high quality services that have been part of Development is Child’s Play for decades.”

Sahana OTD, OTR/L, PRPC

Position:

Occupational Therapist Owner

Biography:

Sahana grew up and homeschooled in rural Maui, Hawaii. Sahana majored in Psychology at Scripps College in Claremont, California before receiving an MA in Occupational Therapy at the University of Southern California. Before joining DICP, Sahana worked in the only hospital on Maui, helping patients in acute and rehabilitation care, hand splinting, and performing modified barium swallow studies. Sahana became a co-owner of Development is Child’s Play in 2017. Sahana has advanced certifications in the Sensory Integration and SIPT, swallowing and feeding, Therapeutic Listening, pediatric pelvic floor rehabilitation, and the Masgutova Method.

Sahana says:

“I love this clinic and the professional and personal camaraderie I have with my fellow therapists. I love working with children and families to help make life more fun and successful. I hope that we can help support our clients and families in new and creative ways. We are always happy to hear from our families and colleagues about how we can best meet your needs!”

Ariana MS, OTR/L

Position

Occupational Therapist

Biography:

Ariana (Ari) attended San Jose State University where she graduated with a BA in Psychology and a minor in Women’s Studies. She went on to graduate from SJSU’s OT Master’s Program. Ari has experience in outpatient pediatrics, as well as outpatient mental health and acute care with adults. Before joining us as a therapist, Ari trained with DICP during her level I and level II internships, so we already know that she is a wonderful fit for our kids and our team. Ari’s special interests include sensory processing and trauma-informed care. Ari and her husband love living in downtown San Jose, and vacationing in Oahu, Hawaii. Outside of OT she loves thrifting, reading, going to the beach with family, crafting with friends, and has a passion for design.

Ari says:

“I am really inspired by the resilience in children and love uncovering the just-right challenge that finds the perfect balance of fun and motivation. Working alongside families and support systems to achieve what’s truly meaningful for each child is both an honor and a privilege to me. During my time completing level II fieldwork at DICP, I was drawn to the dedication and heart poured into every therapy session, and I knew it was something special I wanted to be a part of.”

Evelyn MS, OTR/L

Position

Occupational Therapist

Biography:

Evelyn graduated from the University of Michigan with a Bachelor’s Degree in Athletic Training. She received her Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy from San Jose State University. She has received training in Zones of Regulation, The Alert Program, Handwriting Without Tears, and Beckman Oral Motor Protocol. She has special interests in gross and fine motor development, sports skills, and therapy groups. Evelyn was born and raised in Fremont. She enjoys crafting, baking, and being active outdoors.

Evelyn says:

“After completing my fieldwork internship here, I am very excited to join DICP! Everyone is so supportive and caring, and I have enjoyed getting to work and learning from an incredible team. I am passionate about working in pediatrics and love the holistic emphasis and creative nature of occupational therapy. As an OT, I look forward to helping kids reach their highest potential all while having fun!”

Gina OTD, OTR/L

Position:

Occupational Therapist

Biography:

Gina received her Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology from Sonoma State University and her Doctorate (OTD) of Occupational Therapy from the University of Pittsburgh. Gina has interests in sensory processing, motor planning, trauma-informed care, emotional regulation and child-led play and is certified in youth mental health first aid and trained in recognizing and addressing Adverse Childhood Events (ACEs). When she is not at DICP, Gina enjoys running, working out, hiking, listening to music, and spending time with friends and family. She also enjoys travel, being exposed to new experiences, and learning new things.

Gina says:

“I love being an occupational therapist because I value being able to make a lifelong difference in the lives of children and their families. From the first time I walked through the doors of DICP, I felt at home. The staff create such a positive, safe, and collaborative environment for everyone. It is clear how much they care about each one of the kids and will do everything they can to ensure the best outcomes. It warms my heart seeing how happy and motivated the kids are when they are having fun in therapy while working on their goals. I am so excited to join the DICP community!”

Hannah MS, OTR/L

Position:

Occupational Therapist

Biography:

Hannah graduated from the University of South Carolina with a BS in exercise science and a minor in psychology. She received a Master’s of Science degree in the Occupational Therapy program at Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC). Hannah has special interests and certifications in sensory integration and feeding therapy. Hannah has advanced training in the Beckman feeding protocol, the Talk Tools sensory motor approach and the SOS feeding approach. Hannah also has therapeutic experience with working on the foundational skills for handwriting, coordination and motor planning, core strength and postural stability, and visual motor integration. Hannah moved to the Bay Area from South Carolina with her husband and golden retriever. When she’s not at DICP, Hannah enjoys exploring the outdoors, traveling, painting, and spending the day on the beach with her family.

Hannah says:

“I enjoy working at DICP because of their supportive and positive environment that fosters growth and collaboration. This team offers a wealth of knowledge, client-centered approaches, and nurtures development for not only their clients, but also their therapists. I know I am coming into work everyday into an environment that feels like home, where our freedom to use our creative ideas and specialized training is met with an abundance of resources, tools, and a welcoming atmosphere that allows our clients to thrive. I feel privileged to work with such an incredible team of professionals that has a shared passion for working with kids and helping them succeed, having fun (even while working), and seeing the good in everyone.”

Jennifer MS, OTR/L

Position:

Occupational Therapist

Biography:

Jennifer received her Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development from the University of California, Davis and Master of Science degree in Occupational Therapy from San Jose State University. She is fluent in both English and Spanish and describes herself as a people-person who loves working with children of all ages. Jennifer has worked with children aged 2-14 years old with various diagnoses such as ADHD, autism, Global Developmental Delay, sensory processing differences, and cerebral palsy. In addition, she has experience working with adults and older adults with diagnoses such as dementia, cerebrovascular accidents, Parkinson’s disease and more. Jennifer has received training in the DIRFloortime Model, has experience using Zones of Regulation, and is certified in Integrated Learning Systems, specifically the Focus System and SSP therapeutic listening programs. When she is not at DICP, Jennifer enjoys hiking, playing board games, watching documentaries, cuddling with her dog Baloo, and spending time with her husband, family, and friends.

Jennifer says:

“I believe in the importance of respect, transparency, communication, compassion and being understanding and aim to help every child reach their full potential and live a meaningful life in which they can feel joyful, connected, motivated and proud of who they are and what they can accomplish.”

Karen MS, OTR/L

Position:

Occupational Therapist

Biography:

Karen received her BA in Communication / Psychology from Rutgers University and her Master of Science degree in Occupational Therapy from Thomas Jefferson University. Karen was an occupational therapist at Development is Child’s Play before starting her family and working in other settings including California Pacific Medical Center, the Alameda Unified School District, and private practice, and she has returned to work in our Burlingame location! She is interested in infant development, and has certifications in a variety of occupational therapy courses and modalities. When she is not at DICP, Karen enjoys her family, hiking, and spending time on the water with friends. She is also the Stunt Coach for the Alameda High School Cheer Team.

Karen says:

“I love being an occupational therapist because I get to play all day while helping children and their families to reach their full potential together!”

Karen MS, OTR/L

Position:

Occupational Therapist

Biography:

Karen received her undergraduate degree from UC Davis with a BS in Human Development and a minor in Psychology. Karen has worked as a therapist at Development is Child’s Play since graduating from San Jose State with a Master’s in Occupational Therapy. Karen is trained in Therapeutic Listening, The Astronaut Training Protocol, Social Thinking, The S.O.S. feeding approach, Handwriting Without Tears, The Learn, Play, Thrive Approach, has completed two SIPT Courses, and has taken multiple courses in Sensory Integration through TheraPeeds. Karen enjoys working closely in collaboration with her DICP colleagues.

Karen Says:

“I have always been drawn to working with children. After college, and during the tech boom, I spent six years working in HR at Sun Microsystems. I realized, after a few years and too many long meetings, that it was time to make a career change and get back to my roots. The moment I walked through the office door at DICP I knew I was where I needed to be. The one-on-one client relationships, the play, the interesting and fun equipment, and the ability to have a more direct impact with my work was so exciting. I feel so fortunate to have found a wonderful place with such fantastic friends and amazing support from our Aides, Volunteers, and Office Manager. I don’t know what other clinics are like, but this is the most collaborative, kind, caring, open, knowledgeable, willing, helpful, smart, and funny group of people that I have ever worked with and I can’t imagine being a therapist with any other group.”

Kerry MA, OTR/L

Position:

Occupational Therapist

Biography:

Kerry was born and raised in San Jose, CA, where she still resides. Kerry attended the University of California, Davis where she completed her BS in Physiology. She then received an MA in Occupational Therapy at the University of Southern California. Kerry is SIPT certified and is our Volunteer Coordinator.

Kerry says:

“I became a pediatric occupational therapist because of my older sister, Tara B. Tara reacted to her DPT shot in April of 1973 when she was 3 months old. She has right sided hemiparesis, cortical blindness, and has seizures due to her injury. I used to attend Tara’s therapy sessions where I watched these amazing people who would help my sister to stand and walk and use her hands, all while playing! I was amazed at how easy it looked, so I would go home and try to copy what they did in their sessions to help my sister. I knew then and there what I wanted to do for my career! Having been the younger sister of a person with special needs, I know the family side of OT. I know the special needs child changes the family dynamic because even though Tara is my older sister, I will always help to care for her, even if that means listening to Christmas music in July.”

Mark

Position:

Occupational Therapist

Biography:

Mark graduated from the University of California, Davis, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. He received his Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy from Touro University Nevada. He has received training in sensory processing and behavior, self-regulation (Zones of Regulation, Alert Program), play-based approaches, feeding interventions, interventions for children with cognitive and motor impairments, handwriting interventions (Handwriting Without Tears, Size Matters, and Construct, Draw, Write), and visual-motor integration. Furthermore, he has special interests in sensory processing, reflex integration, play-based approaches, and feeding. Mark shares his life with his wife and two rescue kitties, Cappuccino and Jameson. Outside of work, Mark’s hobbies include martial arts, archery, reading, cooking, videogames, and hiking.

Mark Says:

“The first time I saw a child with severe barriers overcoming everything to engage in play, I knew pediatric occupational therapy was to be my life’s work. Both children and adults learn naturally and seemingly effortlessly when lost in play, and that is what I strive to bring to my sessions. DICP not only shares this ethos, but also invests in its therapists to provide the best care possible. Working with such a talented group of professionals is a privilege and I am excited each day to learn something new. I look forward to being a part of your child’s and family’s success!”

Sam MS, OTR/L

Position:

Occupational Therapist

Biography:

Sam received her Bachelor’s degree in psychology from Pepperdine University and her Master’s degree in occupational therapy from Stanbridge University. Sam has completed certifications for Astronaut Training, ILS Focus System, the Safe and Sound protocol, the Beckman Oral Motor Protocol, and the SOS approach to feeding.

Sam says:

“I always knew I wanted to be in the helping profession and once I found occupational therapy, I knew it was the right fit for me! I love being able to help children learn, grow and reach their full potential through the power of play. DICP offers such a wonderful environment to nurture that growth with a beautiful treatment space, fun equipment, and an amazing, caring, and supportive staff!”

Shawn

Position:

Occupational Therapist

Biography:

Shawn attended UC Berkeley where he graduated with a double major in English and Social Welfare. He went on to receive his Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy from USC. Before joining DICP, Shawn worked with kids at Axiom Learning in Los Altos and Menlo Park. Shawn and his wife have a young son and daughter and Shawn loves Batman, video games, and exploring fun places in the Bay Area. We are thrilled to have Shawn working with us at DICP!

Shawn says:

“I love OT because OT activities can make things like playing and having fun have functional benefits!”

Veerali

Position:

Occupational Therapist

Biography:

Veerali graduated from the University of Southern California (USC) with a BS and MA in Occupational Therapy and a minor in Business Administration. She received her doctorate (OTD) in occupational therapy at USC as well and completed her doctoral residency in pediatric mental health along with a fellowship in neurodevelopmental disabilities and maternal/child health. Through her residency, Veerali developed an expertise in infant and childhood mental health, with specific interests in developmental trauma and attachment. Prior to joining the DICP team, she practiced at an outpatient pediatric mental health clinic where she worked with children between the ages of 0-20 with a variety of developmental/medical/mental health diagnoses and enjoyed working with each unique child and family to best support their needs. She strongly believes that mental health is an integral part of treating a child and family holistically and is excited to utilize her background at DICP! Veerali has a certification in Sensory Integration and additional training in feeding and DIR/Floortime. Her special areas of interest are in infant and pediatric mental health, sensory processing, and trauma-informed care. She is dedicated to providing holistic, child/family-centered, relationship-based, and culturally-relevant care to all the children and families she works with to help them reach their highest potential! In her free time, Veerali enjoys exploring the outdoors, reading, spending time with her family/friends, and traveling.

Veerali has certifications in Sensory Integration, additional training in DIR/Floortime, feeding, and ACE’s, and her special areas of interest are in infant and pediatric mental health, sensory processing, and trauma-informed care.

Stephanie

Position:

Physical Therapist

Biography:

Stephanie graduated from the University of California, Davis, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Evolutionary Anthropology. She received her Doctorate from Florida International University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy Program. She completed two of her graduate school clinical rotations in pediatrics, gaining experience in hospital and outpatient settings. Stephanie was born and raised in Saratoga and is happy to be back in the South Bay Area working. She loves traveling and learning about new cultures, as well as animals, baking, hiking, scuba diving, and anything Disney!

Stephanie says:

“I grew up in a family of healthcare professionals and always knew I wanted to have a career where I could help others. After having two knee surgeries of my own, I fell in love with physical therapy. I love being able to help kids build confidence and work toward achieving their full potential while making therapy an enjoyable experience.”

Kira

Position:

Physical Therapist Assistant

Biography:

Kira received her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and Associate of Science in Sports Medicine from West Valley College and San Jose State University before becoming a PTA. Kira worked as an aide in social groups with a Speech Pathologist as well as a Behavioral Therapist specializing in social emotional behavior for 15 years. She also taught dance for 8 years and taught an Autism Movement Therapy/Creative Movement class. She is interested in Early Intervention Physical Therapy, sensory processing, motor planning, trauma-informed care, emotional regulation and child-led play and is certified in recognizing and addressing Adverse Childhood Events (ACEs). When she is not at DICP, Kira enjoys travel (especially Disney), baking, and spending time with her family and her three cats.

Kira says:

“I love working with children and seeing the world through their eyes! I look forward to working with and collaborating with the occupational and physical therapists at Development is Child’s Play!”

Rumba Canine Companions for Independence® Facility Dog

Position:

CCI® Facility Dog

Biography:

Rumba was born January 10, 2018 and has been working with DICP since October 2020. Rumba lives with DICP therapist/owner Sena, and comes to work with her almost every day.

Rumba is DICP’s Canine Companions for Independence® Facility Dog. This means she is trained to work in a health care setting. Her trained skills can be utilized to enhance therapies, promote participation, and reduce anxiety for clients in professional environments. She was bred to be calm, reliable, and affectionate in order to best help the pediatric population.

Rumba Says:

“I love playing, belly rubs, holding hands (paws), and snoozing on one of my clinic dog beds. I also love helping kids in their sessions by playing balloon volleyball, Honey Bee Tree, and fetch. Kids love petting, walking, and cuddling with me and even kids who are a little frightened of dogs end up loving to pet me as I walk by.”