The Pocket Occupational Therapist for Families of Children With Special Needs won a 2015 Family Choice Award!
Pediatric occupational therapist, Cara Koscinski, MOT, OTR/L, is the author of The Pocket Occupational Therapist for Families of Children With Special Needs. She was just 17 years old when she decided on her life long career. After shadowing an occupational therapist (OT) at a high school career day, her mind was made up. “I decided that day that’s what I wanted to do,” said Cara.” In fact, I applied to a university OT program as a junior in high school and never looked back. I never considered any other career.”
Little did she know that her passion, first ignited as a teen, would serve her so well in both her professional and personal 
life. Cara practiced occupational therapy, primarily serving an adult population, for years. It wasn’t until she had her sons and they were diagnosed with autism and sensory processing disorder that she made the switch to pediatric OT. Her younger son has mitochondrial disease, a severe case of Eosinophilic Esophagitis and uses a feeding tube for nourishment. At times, he requires a wheelchair to get around.
Cara believes her experience as a special needs mom gives her unique empathy for her clients and their families. “When I give my clients a home activity, I have personally tried it and know it works,” said Cara. “I feel very blessed to have the chance to use my professional expertise to help my own boys.”
As the author of this book, Cara brings her expertise as a pediatric occupational therapist and mother of two special needs children to parents, caregivers, families, and educators in an easy-to-read, easy-to-follow format. “I hope my readers will use the book during many times. For example, this week their child may be having difficulty with washing hair…next week it may be handwriting. The book is designed so that families can pick up the book and find exactly the help that they need.”
“I was surprised and honored to receive the nomination. I’m quite proud of the book and hope that this award will help readers to learn about the benefits of occupational therapy.”
For more information about Cara, visit her website at www.PocketOT.com.