Lara Levine, MOT, OTR/L 

I graduated in 2006 from Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon with a Masters in Occupational Therapy.  I received my undergraduate degree from James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia. 

In 1999, I packed up my Honda Accord and moved from Charlottesville, Virginia to Portland, Oregon. I first worked with teen parents in an alternative school, and then with children and families in a community mental health setting. While I loved the work in the mental health arena, I craved a more comprehensive approach to working with children and families.  Then I found OT and life has never been the same!

As a pediatric occupational therapist I have worked in school districts, hospitals, and outpatient clinics. Working in such a variety of settings has given me the knowledge and skills needed to support teachers, parents, and children in many different environments. 

A majority of my OT career was spent as a lead therapist for Advanced Pediatric Therapies (APT), an outpatient clinic in Portland, Oregon. I  have a specialized certificate from the University of Southern California in working with children with sensory integration differences. I have advanced training working with children who have experienced trauma and I always use a strength-based approach. My work is guided by anti-racist principals and use a strong neuro-diversity lens.

I am currently working for Portland Public Schools in a specialized mental health program (DART) for our students who are being supported by our community mental health partners in day or residential treatment. In this role, I serve students who have Individual Educational Plans (IEP) with OT services. I also coordinate the Social Emotional Learning for the DART schools. In my spare time I am working on my doctorate in OT:)

It is a true joy to work with children and families; they are my greatest teachers. 

When I am not being an OT nerd, I am a sober mom who lives in Portland, Oregon with my two dogs and two boys.  We love to travel, hike, and watch shows together!