Best Occupational Therapists in Salinas
Updated September 19, 2024
Introduction to Occupational Therapy in Salinas
Definition and scope of occupational therapy
Occupational therapy is a client-centered health profession that aims to promote health and well-being through occupation. In Salinas, occupational therapists work with individuals of all ages to help them participate in activities they find meaningful and necessary in their daily lives. These professionals use evidence-based practices to assess, plan, and implement interventions that enable clients to engage in their desired occupations effectively.
Occupational therapy offers numerous benefits for various conditions. In Salinas, occupational therapists assist clients with physical disabilities, mental health issues, developmental delays, and age-related challenges. They help improve motor skills, cognitive abilities, and social functioning, enhancing overall quality of life and independence.
Importance of occupational therapy in daily life
Occupational therapy plays a significant role in improving functional independence for individuals in Salinas. Therapists work with clients to develop strategies and skills that allow them to perform daily activities with greater ease and autonomy. This may include adapting environments, teaching new techniques, or recommending assistive devices to support independent living.
By focusing on meaningful activities and personalized goals, occupational therapists in Salinas contribute to enhancing the overall quality of life for their patients. They help individuals regain confidence, reduce stress, and increase participation in work, leisure, and social activities. This holistic approach addresses not only physical limitations but also emotional and social well-being.
Overview of occupational therapy services in Salinas
In Salinas, occupational therapy services are available in various settings. These include hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, schools, and home health agencies. Some therapists, like Dr. Eric Garcia and Dr. Keith Migotti, offer specialized services in chiropractic occupational medicine, providing a unique blend of care for their patients.
Occupational therapists in Salinas treat a wide range of conditions. Based on the available data, common areas of focus include physical rehabilitation, hand therapy, and work-related injuries. Therapists like Donna Reisdorfer and Dr. Beth Milford specialize in general occupational therapy and occupational medicine, addressing conditions such as musculoskeletal disorders, neurological impairments, and work-related ergonomic issues.
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List of Occupational Therapists in Salinas
Selecting an Occupational Therapist in Salinas
Factors to consider when choosing an occupational therapist
Credentials and certifications
- Review educational background (e.g., Dr. Beth Milford's medical degree from University of Michigan)
- Check for board certifications (e.g., American Board of Preventive Medicine)
Experience and specializations
- Consider therapists with relevant specialties (e.g., Dr. Eric Garcia's expertise in Chiropractic Occupational Medicine)
- Evaluate years of practice and areas of focus
Patient reviews and ratings
- Examine star ratings (e.g., Dr. Beth Milford and Donna Reisdorfer with 5.0-star ratings)
- Read patient testimonials when available
Insurance considerations
In-network vs. out-of-network providers
- Verify if the therapist accepts your insurance plan
- Understand potential out-of-pocket costs
Coverage for occupational therapy services
- Check with your insurance provider about coverage limits
- Inquire about required referrals or pre-authorizations
Accessibility and location
Proximity to home or work
- Consider travel time to therapy appointments
- Evaluate convenience of location for regular visits
Availability of parking or public transportation
- Check for parking options near the therapist's office
- Research public transportation routes if needed
Top-Rated Occupational Therapists in Salinas
Highly Rated Occupational Therapists
Donna Reisdorfer
- Specializes in Occupational Therapy
- 5.0-star rating based on 3 patient reviews
- Contact: (831) 424-8072
Dr. Beth Milford
- Specializes in Occupational Medicine
- 5.0-star rating based on 3 patient reviews
- Medical degree from University of Michigan
- Contact: (714) 625-2526
Dr. Eric Garcia
- Specializes in Chiropractic and Occupational Medicine
- 5.0-star rating based on 1 patient review
- Contact: (831) 422-3558
Additional Well-Regarded Practitioners
Dr. Keith Migotti
- Specializes in Chiropractic and Occupational Medicine
- 3.4-star rating based on 5 patient reviews
- Contact: (831) 757-9420
Other Notable Occupational Therapists
- Brief overview of additional therapists in Salinas
- Mention of various specialties and focus areas
Considerations When Choosing a Therapist
Factors to Consider
- Specialization and experience
- Patient ratings and reviews
- Location and accessibility
- Insurance coverage and network status
Making an Informed Decision
- Importance of personal research
- Consulting with primary care physicians for referrals
- Scheduling initial consultations when possible
Additional Resources for Finding Occupational Therapists in Salinas
Online directories and review platforms
Healthgrades
- Comprehensive database of occupational therapists in Salinas
- User reviews and ratings for informed decision-making
- Detailed provider profiles including education and certifications
Other reputable healthcare provider directories
- Yelp for local patient reviews
- ZocDoc for appointment scheduling capabilities
- WebMD's physician directory for additional provider information
Local healthcare networks and hospitals
Referrals from primary care physicians
- Personalized recommendations based on patient needs
- Integration with existing healthcare plans
- Potential for coordinated care across specialties
Hospital-affiliated occupational therapy services
- Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System
- Natividad Medical Center
- Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula (nearby)
Professional associations and certification boards
American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA)
- Find a Provider tool on AOTA website
- Resources on occupational therapy specialties and best practices
- Information on continuing education for therapists
National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT)
- Verification of therapist certifications
- Standards of practice information
- Consumer resources for understanding occupational therapy credentials