Provider Spotlight: Alexis Schambers, MS, OTR/L

At Kelly Pediatric Therapy, we proudly spotlight the exceptional clinicians who bring energy, creativity, and heart to every child they serve.

Meet Alexis Schambers, an occupational therapist whose journey from inspired student to confident clinician embodies the spirit of growth, innovation, and joy in pediatric care.

We celebrate Alexis not only for her dedication and skill, but also for the meaningful connections and sense of fulfillment she brings to her students and team each day.

What inspired you to pursue a career in pediatric occupational therapy?

I first became interested in the pediatric population during my level two fieldwork with Kelly Pediatric Therapy. I was very fortunate to have two great clinical supervisors in that rotation, letting me observe students from kindergarten all the way through 12th grade. It was a great experience to see all different populations and settings and learn about different clinical treatment methods.

Also, I was drawn to this type of work since I was a child. I grew up alongside a friend who had Down syndrome, and always gravitated towards supporting him. Those experiences, plus being involved in programs like Best Buddies during high school, really set me on this path.

Was it intimidating starting in a school setting as a new grad?

It can be overwhelming to start any new job. My clinical director met me at my school on day one, gave me a tour, and shared some therapy tools from when she was practicing.

I could also call, text, or email her any time with questions or challenging cases. I learned there were no bad questions, especially early on when my confidence wasn’t there yet.

Plus, with Kelly, there’s a whole supportive team you might not see every day, but you can reach out to problem solve on complicated cases.

Was transitioning from OT school to a school-based setting what you expected?

There’s a bit of a misconception coming out of OT school where you’re shown all these tools like swings and gadgets, and then you get to a school and realize those resources aren’t always at your fingertips.

I actually saw this as an opportunity for growth and creativity. For example, when I needed to support a sensory-seeking student but didn’t have the expected equipment, I got creative with the materials I had—stepping stones, cones, tunnels—and we built an obstacle course together.

It was a process of improvising, collaborating, and, honestly, building rapport with my students while solving problems together. Those experiences, especially in my early days, really boosted my confidence.

Did you take advantage of any continuing education or resources?

Yes! I attended the Kelly Pediatric Therapy School-Based Academy. It’s full of intervention ideas, strategies for scheduling, and you meet practitioners from multiple disciplines who share their ideas for collaborating.

They also provide opportunities for monthly CEUs. If a provider is curious about a certain topic, Kelly will even create a course around it—which has been so helpful in addressing overlapping issues like sensory needs versus behavioral challenges.

Plus, we have gatherings a couple of times a year to build relationships with the other Kelly providers in our district, so I never feel alone. The community is always there to support and learn from one another.

What advice do you have for people considering Kelly?

If you’re unsure if Kelly is right for you, talk to the clinical director and ask questions. Try to observe the setting if you can. Find what fits best for your needs—whether that’s full-time, part-time, or a certain population.

There’s a community here, and so many resources to support your growth and confidence.

What’s the most rewarding part of your job?

School-based therapy is so rewarding because you’re working with kids every week, seeing them in the halls, building those relationships.

When a student hits a goal—big or small—it’s such a proud moment. They’re excited, telling teachers, bringing work home to parents. Being part of their progress brings me so much joy.

Grow your career with Kelly Pediatric Therapy.

At Kelly Pediatric Therapy, our mission is to support dedicated therapists like you, so you can make a difference for children and families in our schools, clinics, and communities. We offer resources, mentorship, and real opportunities for career growth—plus a true work-life balance. Learn more about all the ways we support our therapists.

Connect with our recruiters today to learn how you can advance your career—and make every hour you spend at work more meaningful.

Explore our PT, OT, SLP, and behavioral health opportunities in schools across the country.