Sam graduated from Samuel Merritt University in 2023 with a Doctorate of Occupational Therapy and from CSU Monterey Bay in 2011 with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, with an emphasis in exercise science. Sam has experience working with the pediatric/adolescent population, working with youth (6 months – 18 years) as well as adults (18 years – 65 years) with ASD, traumatic brain injury, self-regulation deficits, adverse childhood experiences (internationally displaced families; physical and psychological trauma), chronic pain, organ transplant, cardiovascular disease/disorders, and orthopedic trauma.

Sam’s certifications include ACES Aware and CALTRIN Mental Health Matters in Early Childhood. Sam enjoys helping other families grow and experience their children hitting milestones, however small/large they may be. Additionally, he enjoys the collaboration and camaraderie amongst his colleagues, which allows for a more unified experience for all involved in the therapy process.

Education

• OTD, Doctorate of Occupational Therapy, Samuel Merritt University
• BS, Kinesiology: Exercise Science, California State University Monterey Bay
• EMT-B, Emergency Medical Technician, Foothill College

License & Certificates

• National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, 499868
• California Board of Occupational Therapy, 25568
• Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED, 01V1BJM

Professional Affiliations

• American Occupational Therapy Association
• Occupational Therapy Association of California

Recent Publications

• Exploring Physical Activity as a Coping Strategy to Improve Occupational Performance and Emotional and Behavioral Regulation Amongst School-Aged Immigrant, Refugee, and
  Asylum-Seeker (RAS) Populations: An After-School Pilot Program (2023)