Hi, I’m Elissa, and I’m proud to be part of the team at Centerpointe for Children here in Irvine, California. As a pediatric occupational therapist, my passion lies in helping children feel confident, capable, and connected to the world around them.

I earned my Master of Occupational Therapy degree from the University of St. Augustine and my Bachelor’s in Kinesiology from Cal State Fullerton. My clinical focus centers on early child development and sensory integration—two areas that play a critical role in how children learn, grow, and participate in everyday life.

What I Love About Pediatric Occupational Therapy

Every child is unique, and that’s what makes this work so meaningful. At Centerpointe, we use purposeful, play-based activities to help children develop essential life skills—whether that’s improving coordination, building independence, or strengthening emotional regulation.

I especially enjoy helping children who experience sensory challenges. Sensory integration is the brain’s ability to process and respond to information from the environment—things like touch, movement, sound, and balance. When this process is disrupted, it can impact learning, behavior, and social participation.

Through evidence-based approaches like Ayres Sensory Integration®, we create a safe and engaging environment where children can develop these skills naturally through play.

A Family-Centered Approach That Makes a Difference

One of the things I value most about working at Centerpointe is our commitment to family-centered care. I don’t just work with children—I partner with families.

We provide guidance, education, and strategies that parents can use at home to support their child’s development. Whether it’s improving sleep routines, managing sensory sensitivities, or building independence with daily activities, our goal is to create lasting progress beyond the therapy session.

Why Irvine Families Choose Centerpointe for Children

Families across Irvine and Orange County trust our team because we combine clinical expertise with a playful, engaging approach. Since 2003, Centerpointe has been helping children build the foundational skills they need to succeed at home, in school, and in their communities.

Our state-of-the-art clinic is designed specifically to support sensory-motor development, creating an environment where children can explore, learn, and grow with confidence.

My Mission as a Therapist

My goal is simple: to empower every child I work with to feel confident navigating their world. When a child gains independence, builds new skills, or simply feels proud of what they can do—that’s the moment that makes everything worthwhile.

If you’re a parent in Irvine looking for pediatric occupational therapy, I’d love to connect and support your child’s journey.