Michaela Yennella earned her Master’s of Science in Occupational Therapy and Bachelor’s of Science in Health Sciences with a minor in Counseling and Human Services from the University of Scranton. Her clinical expertise encompasses a broad spectrum of pediatric conditions, including hemiplegia, autism spectrum disorder, sensory processing disorder, ADHD, cerebral palsy, and developmental disorders.
Michaela’s professional experience includes Level II fieldwork placements in both outpatient pediatric and hand therapy settings. She is dedicated to creating engaging and supportive therapeutic environments where children can achieve their goals through meaningful play. She believes strongly in family-centered therapy and prioritizes parent education and collaboration, ensuring that families are integral to the therapeutic process. Michaela stays current with her field through continued education, having recently completed coursework in interoception and toileting. She employs client-centered and strength-based approaches, informed by her participation in the 2024 International DIRFloortime Conference.
Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children, play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood.