Occupational therapists and therapy assistants are part of a vitally important profession that helps people across the lifespan participate in the things they want and need to do through the therapeutic use of everyday activities. Their holistic and customized approach to evaluations, interventions, and outcomes assist a person recovering from injuries to regain skills as well as aid an older adult to remain as independent as possible.
Jacquelyn Patterson | Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant
Jacquelyn graduated from Parker University’s Occupational Therapist Assistant program in December 2020 and has been working as a certified occupational therapy assistant at Accel since graduating.
“I chose the OT profession because OTs/COTAs are creative healers with the ability to help others relearn and adapt to tasks they need or love to do.” She adds that it is a job that seemingly gives back each day. “It never lets you get comfortable in the same routine.”
Jacquelyn shared that she is interested in obtaining a specialty certification in stroke rehab, mental health, or the Kinesio® Taping Method (therapeutic tape is applied on the body to reduce pain and inflammation). “My favorite part of being a therapist in inpatient rehab is getting to treat people with all types of diagnosis in one setting and creating interventions that are unique to each individual. I have learned so much in my short time here at Accel and I look forward to what’s to come.”
Kim Hunter | Occupational Therapy Assistant
Kim Hunter has served as an Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) for 21 years. Prior to obtaining her OTA degree, she worked at Enid State School in Oklahoma where she said she enjoyed working with adults and children with special needs.
“It was from this experience, I became interested in pursuing a career in occupational therapy.” Upon graduating from Oklahoma City Community College, she began her career by initially working with children. She says she loves being an occupational therapist because she enjoys meeting new people and seeing their progress as they heal and achieve their goals.
Christina Sutton | Occupational Therapist
Christina Sutton graduated from Texas Woman’s University (Dallas) with a Master’s in Occupational Therapy in 2018. While studying to obtain her OT license, she completed one of her required student internships here at Accel Rehabilitation Hospital of Plano.
“As a student intern at Accel, I enjoyed working in a collaborative team environment that works hard to help patients make progress and become more independent so they can return home with their loved ones.”
She added that when a full time OT position became available, she jumped at the opportunity. I enjoy working in a facility where we see patients with a variety of diagnoses, but I particularly enjoy treating patients with neurological conditions. As a therapist, she explains that her goal is to simulate the home environment, create adaptive techniques and provide new strategies for increased independence with functional mobility.
Kathy Merrill | Occupational Therapist
Kathy Merrill graduated from Texas Woman’s University and has been an Occupational Therapist for 25 years. She has worked in a variety of settings including long term care, skilled nursing, work hardening, ergonomics, outpatient and acute care. Kathy also has a Master’s in Public Administration and worked for the City of Carrollton supervising enrichment programs for seniors, teens, and children.
Kathy enjoys being an Occupational Therapist as it affords her the opportunity to help patients regain independence and a higher quality of life. She enjoys treating the patient and connecting with the person.