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The Michigan Occupational Therapy Association welcomes all therapists, assistants, students, and educators in the profession of occupational therapy to explore and enjoy this website.
Patients and their family members and advocates will find information about how the OT practitioners across the state can help them to participate fully and perform at the highest level within their personal life roles...truly living life to it's fullest!
As you use this site you will note that some areas are for members only. We wish to thank those members who have demonstrated their support for their profession and this association, which is the Voice of OT within the state of Michigan.
We hope that those who have not yet joined will take this opportunity to become a member of MiOTA. MiOTA is a voluntary professional association of occupational therapy practitioners who are dedicated to supporting the profession through advocacy and communication.
Welcome
MiOTA Member Spotlight
MICHELLE SUAREZ, PhD, OTRL
Dr. Michelle Suarez is a Professor in the Occupational Therapy Department at Western Michigan University and Director of the Resiliency Center for Families and Children. She received her Master’s in occupational therapy from Eastern Michigan University and her PhD from Western Michigan University.
From early on, Dr. Suarez knew she wanted to work with individuals facing mental health challenges. When she discovered that occupational therapy uses meaningful and purposeful occupation to facilitate health and wellness, she knew found her professional calling: perfect match for her passion and interests.
Outside of her work, she enjoys spending time with her husband, mother, two children (one in college and one in high school), and their dog. The family enjoys good food, thrifting, hiking, and relaxing together with a good movie.
At the heart of Dr. Suarez’s work is her commitment to supporting joyful engagement in daily life for families and children “who have come from hard places.” Through her leadership at the Resiliency Center, one of the most impactful services offered is Caregiver Co-Regulation Coaching. She considers it a privilege to share in the stories of families of children who have experienced trauma. She notes that providing this service has deeply transformed her—not only as a therapist but as a human being. Learn more about the Resiliency Center for Families and Children: https://wmich.edu/unifiedclinics/resiliencycenter
Dr. Suarez says, “I love MiOTA”. She is a strong advocate for MiOTA and was honored to serve as a keynote speaker at the 2023 state conference. She describes MiOTA as a vital force in advancing the profession, emphasizing the importance of its advocacy, education, and leadership in tracking political and societal shifts that affect OT practitioners and their clients.
She encourages all practitioners and students to get involved. “MiOTA provides critical education and advocacy,” she says. “The leaders are incredibly generous with their time and expertise. Supporting this organization is a responsibility we all share to protect and grow our profession.”
If you would like to be highlighted or would like to nominate a MiOTA member, please email us at website@miota.org. (Attn: Renuka ‘Ray’ Roche)
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