Desirae, MS, OT/L

Desirae is an occupational therapist with experience in outpatient pediatrics, home health, schools, and pediatric extended care. She provides individualized, play-based treatment to children of all ages and diagnoses. Her caseloads have included children with medically complex needs, rare genetic conditions, autism, ADHD, sensory processing disorder, cerebral palsy, and developmental delays. She collaborates with caregivers and teams to support skill development and promote independence.

Originally from Scranton, Pennsylvania, Desirae earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Occupational Therapy from Misericordia University. Her early experiences include working as a preschool teacher and as a direct support professional at a residential pediatric facility, which helped shape her child-centered, holistic approach to therapy.

Throughout her career, Desirae has gained diverse experience in skilled nursing, school-based therapy, home health pediatrics, and outpatient clinics. As a clinical lead OT at a pediatric extended care facility, she managed fellow therapists and administrative tasks such as scheduling and equipment ordering. Her strengths include caregiver collaboration, multidisciplinary teamwork, and fostering child-led goals to support development in the most natural environments.

Now living in Raleigh, NC, with her husband, their dog Loki, and their cat Grinch, Desirae is passionate about building strong therapeutic relationships and making a positive difference in the lives of children and their families.