Today we’d like to introduce you to Erin Anderson.
Erin, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I have been practicing occupational therapy in the Chicago land area for the past 20 years. I began in the public schools and then worked in private schools for children with learning disabilities. I really enjoyed working with the whole family and wanted to help transfer the skills I taught them in school to what they are able to do in the home. I then worked to start my own private practice. Within a few years I was lucky to connect with some other OT’s that were from my Alma mater of Saint Louis University and they joined my practice. We now work with children in private schools, their homes or my clinic in Roscoe Village.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I was very fortunate that through my work in the schools I was lucky to have the word spread about my occupational therapy practice. I enjoy doing presentations to schools and doctor’s offices and in addition to this presenting at conferences. Educating others about occupational therapy, specifically fine and gross motor development and sensory processing has allowed me to share our success stories in addition to letting others know how kids can achieve greater independence in their day to day lives. A few of the struggles we have conquered along the way include navigating the insurance system in addition to the legal system of protecting patients’ rights. Also, having my degree in Occupational therapy and not business or accounting I have had to realize what skills I possess and what areas of my practice I need to delegate out to others. We continue to try to work out a way to serve those who can’t afford therapy and who are under insured.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
Erin Anderson and Associates, Occupational Therapists can evaluate and implement treatment for children with autism, developmental delay, learning disabilities, ADHD, sensory processing and fine and gross motor delay. We provide direct treatment in the Chicagoland area in the home, school, and clinic environment. We provide in service training and written consultation to parents, teachers and other caregivers. Pediatric occupational therapy increases a child’s independence at play, school and in daily living skills. It can increase a child’s ability to interact with others in a variety of environments by developing skills and adapting to the child’s ability. As the owner, I pride myself in running a business that is family centered. We don’t just stop at a child’s skills within the clinic setting but work to help them transfer their skills to home and school.
Communication is key and we are always speaking with parents, teachers, and other therapists the child works with in order to provide family centered care which is our goal. Our high touch boutique approach sets us above the competition. In addition, we hold ourselves accountable by providing measurable goals for our clients to achieve and updating them on a regular basis.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up, I was an energetic and curious child. Being the youngest of 4 kids I had built in playmates and teachers. I often engaged in a leader role and really liked being around other kids. I took ballet classes and played tennis, later teaching both of those to younger kids. Babysitting and working at day camps kept me busy in my teenage years and I knew that I would like a career involving children, where movement was part of my daily routine. Other interests included reading and music as well as volunteering for several organizations in my community.
Contact Info:
- Address: 2151 W Roscoe St Suite 1W
Chicago, IL 60618 - Website: http://erinandersonassociates.com/
- Phone: (773)935-7355
- Email: therapy@friendsgroupchicago.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100008735676266
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