Meet Jackie Bresnahan
MS OTR/L, SWC, RYT
Occupational Therapist
Jackie believes therapy works best when children feel safe, connected, and understood. She takes a play-based, relationship-centered approach, building on each child’s strengths and interests while partnering with caregivers to support the whole family.
Advanced training for individualized care.
Training & credentials
- Registered Occupational Therapist since 2012 (CA OT License #15317)
- DIR Floortime Advanced Certificate from ICDL
- Sensory integration theory and assessment coursework through the Collaborative for Leadership in Ayres Sensory Integration (CLASI)
- Trained in the SOS Approach to Feeding and Get Permission Approach to Feeding
- California Board Certification in Feeding and Swallowing
- Trained in the Handwriting Without Tears curriculum
- Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT)
Connection is where growth begins.
Jackie’s work begins with getting to know each child as an individual: what draws their attention, what feels comfortable, and what helps them feel ready to engage.
Rather than asking a child to fit a preset sequence, Jackie joins the child’s interests and uses play as a meaningful way to build skills. She pays attention to the whole child—their developmental profile, sensory-motor needs, communication, relationships, and the environments they move through each day.
Caregivers are important partners. Jackie collaborates with families to understand what matters at home and to help skills connect with daily routines and participation.
Education and Experience
Continuing to learn for the children she serves.
Jackie has worked with children and families in educational and pediatric settings. Her experience supporting neurodivergent children in educational settings began in 2007. She earned her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from Tufts University in 2012 and has experience in pediatrics across school, hospital, and clinic settings.
Jackie’s pediatric experience includes school, hospital, and clinic settings. She has held leadership and management roles, mentored pediatric occupational therapists, and supported Level II occupational therapy students.
Jackie has practiced yoga for nearly 20 years. Her interest in the mind-body connection informs her appreciation for the ways movement, breath, and a supportive relationship can help children feel more settled and ready to participate.
At Ground to Grow, she brings curiosity, warmth, and respect for each child’s way of experiencing the world.
Wondering whether Ground to Grow is a good fit?
Email, text, or call Jackie to schedule a free 15-minute initial consultation and talk about your child’s strengths, needs, and goals.