Meet the Founder

Background and Education

My name is Katy Farmerie and I am a pediatric occupational therapist. I was born and raised in Lino Lakes, Minnesota. I received my Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from Iowa State University with a minor in Biology and Psychology. After receiving my undergraduate degree, I moved to Kansas City, Missouri where I earned my Master of Occupational Therapy from Rockhurst University.

Since graduating from graduate school, I have specialized in pediatric occupational therapy. I have experience in various settings such as pediatric outpatient private practice clinics, clients' homes, schools, community parks, and even virtually through telehealth during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Values in Therapy

I have a passion for play-based therapy and I am committed to providing services in a way that is nurturing, respectful, and joyful for the children and families I support. Practicing with this framework in mind for therapy has helped me develop deep and meaningful relationships with my patients and their families. I love that my job allows me to play a part in each family’s unique journey. I deeply believe that having a strong and trusting therapeutic rapport is an essential foundation for skill building and development. 

I have a huge passion for therapy in-homes as I find being at home surrounded by familiar toys and loving family members is where children are usually the most comfortable. I believe that using toys and other items in the child's most natural environment and having active family involvement are the best predictors for successful therapeutic outcomes. 

I adore the birth-3 population. It makes me excited that at this age, there is the highest amount of neuroplasticity in the brain, making it most conducive to achieving therapeutic goals. I love infants, toddlers, and young children's inherent curiosity about the world around them and love witnessing a family's joy and pride when their child achieves a developmental milestone for the first time.

Trainings and Certifications

I place a significant emphasis on the Polyvagal Theory in my therapeutic approach. This neuroscience-based theory explores the connection between the nervous system, emotions, and social behavior and is frequently applied in trauma-informed care and mental health therapy. As a polyvagal informed therapist, I believe that when I support my patient’s nervous system to be regulated during therapy sessions, it helps them manage stress, promote a sense of safety and connection, and leads to the best possible therapeutic outcomes.

In addition, I hold a Basic Level DIRFloortime Provider certification from the Interdisciplinary Council on Development and Learning (ICDL). This training equips me with valuable insights into fostering respectful and tailored interactions that places emphasis on each patient's unique strengths.

I have undergone comprehensive training from the Get Permission Approach to Feeding Institute, participating in courses such as 'Feeding in Infancy and Toddlerhood: Learning Through Opportunity' and 'Using Tools Responsibly in Pediatric Feeding.' In addition, I've received specialized instruction in Oral Placement Therapy provided by TalkTools, with a specific focus on straw drinking and horn blowing. I am committed to using the most current, evidence based practices to drive my decision making as a therapist. 

Hobbies

In my free time I enjoy playing volleyball, reading books, and spending time with friends. As someone originally from the Midwest, I am amazed by the beautiful and diverse landscape that California has to offer. Since relocating to this state, I've made a point to explore all of its national parks because I absolutely love spending time outdoors. You'll often find me out camping, canoeing, and hiking in the company of my husband and our rescue Australian cattle dog, Champion.