Hi, I’m Tara.

I am a Board Certified, Pediatric and Outpatient Occupational Therapist. I am an entrepreneur and free lance therapist based in NYC!

Follow my OT Instagram for more insights and freebies: @tara.theot

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I believe parent education is a vital component of the therapeutic process. When parents are informed and involved, they are better equipped to support their child's development and well-being!!

I am a fan of client-led, engaging and holistic occupational therapy. There are so many ways to treat our clients that take into account their interests, favorite activities and occupations. It's my job to help you get back to what you love!

Click here to access my teaching portfolio!

Eportfolio

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Pediatric eBook now available on my Beacons page

Colorful balloons surround a blackboard with the words 'Back to School' written in colorful letters. The blackboard features school-themed doodles like a school bus, books, an apple, backpack, globe, and writing utensils.
Illustration of a pediatric healthcare setting showing a girl child with two women, one of whom is a doctor, in a friendly interaction. The text mentions a pediatric eCourse by Tara McCormack.
Table of contents for a book or report with sections on introduction, common sensory issues, prenatal to postnatal development, early to pre-school development, sensory scenarios, and autism diagnosis, along with page numbers.
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Colorful magnetic letters spelling the word 'Daytrip' held by a child's hand on a textured blue surface, with some scattered letter magnets and a small cartoon dog sticker.
An orange pegboard with labeled holes, colorful plastic pegs scattered next to it, and a small bag of silver balls on a checkered surface.

My Approach

I value client centered practice

Developmental

As a healthcare professional, I abide by the Developmental Frame of Reference. This model suggests that development is sequential, and actions are mainly influenced by the level of mastery a child or adult has reached in regard to that skill and integrated. Therapy addressing developmental milestones and delays will target sensory integration, coordination, bilateral hand use, visual perception, visual motor skills, fine and gross motor skill, etc. (2024 HOTheory)

Biomechanical

As a health professional that has gone through 7 years of education (3 of which were graduate), it is of absolute importance to adhere to the Biomechanical model during any sessions or evaluations in any setting, from school to outpatient to hospitals. This frame of reference focuses on the importance of anatomy and musculature, emphasizing alignment, therapeutic use of handling, strengthening and stretching muscles and tendons. The goal is to improve performance of and participation in a functional activity as occupational therapists. I also incorporate teachings found in the Neuro Developmental Treatment FOR and Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation. (2024 HOTheory)

Achievements

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    Featured on Usanews

    My Instagram social, tara.theot, has reached ollowers from Hawaii, Japan, the UK, AUS and around the USA!

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    3 Full Years as a Licensed Occupational Therapist

    Outpatient and school based practice, private OT services and entrepreneur.

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    Author

    Sold 10 reference packets for the NBCOT since march of 2024, wrote ‘Pediatrics Foundations’ book in 2025.

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Links You Need to Check Out

NBCOT Guide

Pass the NBCOT by purchasing a concise, well written guide of everything that will be on the exam. My expertise comes from taking and passing the NBCOT with a 475 on my first try and my rigorous, but doable, study plan. This item is available via beacons.

My Store

Resume and Certification & Liability

Below is my resume for 2023-2024. Also attached is my NBCOT certification.

Resume

Cerification

Liability

Amazon Activity Recommendations

Below are links to activities I recommend for a variety of pediatric and adult usage- adults suffering from neurological or degenerative conditions can benefit from some of these games or tools as well.

Peg Board 

Baby Shape Sorter

Theraputty

Small Stacking Cones

Dexterity Board

Hand TheraWeb 

Continued Education Certificates

Once you are a board certified therapist, it is essential to continue your education. AOTA requires that we complete 36 hours of CEU every 3 years.

Seizures and Epilepsy

UE Rehab 

CLASI Ayres Sensory Integration

Social media page

I have had a social media page dedicated to OT since I was in graduate school. This page has grown tremendously and introduced me to so many fellow OTs.

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Testimonials and Recommendations

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Get in Touch!

Available for 1:1 and group therapy sessions for pediatrics and physical disability needs!

Schedule a free 1:1 with me for OT mentorship.

Please email taraamercedes@gmail.com for more information. In subject line please add ‘Therapy Consultation: Your Name”

  • please add concerns, schedule and type and length of session desired

FAQ

  • Yes! I recommend creating and sticking to a routine. I personally use a physical planner but digital planners are best for zoom meetings, phone calls and meetings. For homework assignments, I recommend writing them down physically by date. Keep a close circle with your classmates, they will help you and encourage you.

  • My guide is affordable for students. At currently $100 you can find all the needed material without taking up three textbooks worth of space. There are images and personal commentary sprinkled throughout.

  • Absolutely. I have done so much within my first year as an OT and am looking forward to my future. Honestly, having a steady job will never go unappreciated. OT's will constantly be in need.

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