is Occupational Tía, a neuroaffirming occupational therapist dedicated to supporting individuals of all ages and abilities. Bilingual in Spanish and based in the Chicagoland area, she brings a wealth of experience from various settings, offering in-person and virtual services.
Stephanie’s passion for OT goes beyond traditional therapy—she is committed to fostering meaningful connections, advocating for her clients, and creating a space where they feel supported and empowered. Through Occupational Tía, she merges her diverse experiences to provide compassionate, personalized care that truly makes a difference.
Stephanie Arias
Your 'Occupational Tía'
The name Occupational Tía reflects the warmth, care, and connection I bring to my work. In many cultures, a tía (aunt) is someone who offers unwavering support, wisdom, and a sense of belonging—just like I strive to do as an occupational therapist. Think of me as your therapeutic auntie—always here to encourage, guide, and advocate for you through every challenge. My approach is rooted in trust, compassion, and a deep commitment to helping my clients feel seen, valued, and empowered.
Insights on Impact
Stephanie did a great job with our 3-year old son. I wasn’t sure how well feeding-therapy would work virtually to be honest, especially when working with a kid so young, but Stephanie filled each session with fun games and activities to keep him engaged. There was always time at the end of each session for the parents to learn some tips/tricks to be able to practice throughout the week between sessions.
He learned self-regulation strategies with food that could translate to other life situations which really helped curb the meltdowns. We appreciate everything Stephanie did to help our son grow. Months after therapy was done, my son asked “can we do therapy again?” and I asked “why?” His answer was, “because it was fun!”
— Virtual, PDA + feeding intervention
Over the past five years, I have worked with many professionals (OTs, psychologists, social workers, etc) on our PDA journey. I have to say that our work with Stephanie is second to none. Stephanie is highly professional, and yet at the same time she creates a working relationship that feels like you’re teaming up with an old friend.
Stephanie is the FIRST professional we have worked with that not only knows about PDA, but she is an expert in the subject matter (and neurodiversity affirming on top!) Up until we met Stephanie, I was demoralized and frustrated that our previous providers could not understand why their approach was making life harder (rather than easier) for our PDAer, and honestly, they made it seem like we as the parents were the main factor in the set backs. On the flip side, Stephanie is so incredibly validating and has significantly helped us as we continue to adapt to parenting a PDAer.
— Virtual Parent Coaching, PDA
I feel incredibly fortunate to have Stephanie visit my classroom once a week for my students OT sessions. She is very kind, professional and always provides a clear communication with my student’s family and myself.
As a Pre-k teacher, I noticed my student was facing challenges with cooperative play, safety awareness, difficulties with sensory processing and emotional regulation. After my student started receiving occupational therapy by Stephanie, I have witnessed remarkable improvement in my student’s independence, communication, and overall performance. Her knowledge has provided useful strategies that can be implemented in the classroom or at home.
She has provided my student with the right tools and confidence to succeed, he has learned so many valuable skills ranging from self- regulation, fine motor to self- care.
With the right team of professionals, it truly makes a positive impact in a child’s developmental learning. I couldn’t be any more grateful for all of Stephanie’s support.
— Daycare, in-person intervention
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