Get to Know Our Occupational Therapists
Every April, the global occupational therapy community comes together to shine a spotlight on the invaluable contributions of Occupational Therapists (OTs). Occupational therapy is a critical healthcare profession that plays a vital role in enabling individuals of all ages and abilities to achieve independence, fulfillment, and well-being in their daily activities. Occupational therapy is a critical and often underappreciated aspect of healthcare. At CMI, we are extremely grateful for our OTs, Mishka Sajjadi and Miranda Oleksiak, who make a difference in their clients’ lives every single day.
Get to know Mishka and Miranda more by reading their responses to my questions below!
Mishka Sajjadi, MOT, OTRL, CBIS
In your own words, what is Occupational Therapy?
Occupational Therapy is helping people return to doing the things that make their lives meaningful and productive. This can range from basic self-care to working or engaging in therapeutic hobbies. Anything that OCCUPIES your time can be worked on in occupational therapy ;)
When and why did you decide to become an occupational therapist?
I decided to become an OT when I was a research assistant on an Epilepsy study interviewing people who have epilepsy and how they managed their condition. One study participant spoke about being an Occupational therapist and how much it helped her and brought joy to her life helping others. I started researching OT programs the next day!
What do you love most about your job?
I love that no day looks the same and I get to be creative when coming up with interventions for my clients! Also the look on their face when they successfully engage in something they never thought they’d be able to do again.
Miranda Oleksiak, MOT, OTRL, CBIS
In your own words, what is Occupational Therapy?
Occupational Therapy is assisting individuals to become as independent as possible in their daily activities while also helping them discover enjoyment and purpose in those activities.
When and why did you decide to become an occupational therapist?
When I was younger, my grandfather suffered a stroke and was sent to a rehab facility. Upon visiting him at the rehab facility, I sparked an interest in the rehab team. I decided to pursue occupational therapy because I wanted to help others gain and regain the skills necessary to improve their quality of life in all aspects.
What do you love most about your job?
I love how unique each of my clients are and how not one session is ever the same. I love working with the same clients over time and watching them progress throughout their rehabilitation process.
Again, we are so thankful for Mishka and Miranda for the difference they make at CMI. If you know an occupational therapist, take the time to appreciate the work they do! This month especially, it is important to remind them how essential they are!
