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Occupational Therapy
Occupational Therapists (OTs) must have a State License to practice. Occupational Therapists must obtain a minimum of a Master's Degree in the area of Occupational Therapy. Areas of study include kinesiology, psychology, anthropology, biology, and sociology.
Certified OT Assistants (COTAs) provide treatment under the OT's supervision and must also hold a state license.
Occupational Therapy provides services for the following:
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Fine and Gross Motor Strength
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Fine and Gross Motor Coordination
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Visual Motor/Perceptual Skills
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Bilateral Coordination
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Executive Functions
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Sensory Processing
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Self Regulatory Skills
Meet The Team
Katie Beckman-Stitt, MSOT, OTR/L
Katie has been an Occupational Therapist (OT) since 2018. She has a B.S. in Exercise Science and a Master's Degree in Occupational Therapy. Katie has experience with a wide population including those with developmental disabilities, cognitive, disorders, oral motor and feeding difficulties, and sensory processing issues. She is a member of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) and holds certification with National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and 4 children, running, and playing the piano.
Jen Pyette, COTA/L
Jen is an Occupational Therapy Assistant who loves helping children discover their strengths and build the skills they need to feel confident and successful in everyday life.
She believes the best therapy happens when children feel comfortable, supported, and understood. Jen uses a child-centered approach to make therapy engaging and purposeful, while working closely with families to create meaningful progress that carries over into daily routines.
As a mom of three and a military spouse, Jen understands the busy, ever-changing seasons of family life. Her own experiences have shaped her belief that every child and family deserves individualized support, encouragement, and someone in their corner.
When Jen is not working, you’ll find her at the gym, training for HYROX, or cheering on her kids at their sports, dance, and activities. Jen brings that same energy and passion into the clinic every day!
Maggie Sweeney, OTR/L
Maggie Sweeney has been working as an occupational therapist since 2013. She moved to the Treasure Valley from Buffalo, NY in 2020. Maggie has experience in schools, early intervention, and pediatric home health with particular interest in sensory integration. In her free time, Maggie enjoys exploring and hiking with her dog, tending to her indoor garden, and listening to music.
Carrie Otterness COTA/L
Carrie is a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant and a May 2026 Cum Laude graduate of the College of Western Idaho. Her love of working with children started long before becoming a COTA. After spending 10 years as a competitive gymnast, Carrie went on to coach gymnastics for many years, including working in program leadership. Her background also includes personal training and rehabilitation, which helped lead her to a career in occupational therapy. She loves helping children build skills, confidence, and independence through meaningful and engaging activities.
Originally from Southwest Washington, Carrie loves returning to her home state whenever she gets the chance. Outside of work, she enjoys road trips, camping, and spending time with her husband, family, and her corgi, Sir Anderson. She loves seeing new places and revisiting old favorites. Carrie adds a creative, compassionate, and playful personality to our team!
Doug Birkland, COTA/L
Doug has been living in the treasure valley since 2006 as a transplant from Washington state. He became certified as an Occupational Therapy Assistant in 2011. Before coming to Star Speech and Occupational Therapy, Doug spent 8 years working with kids in the school setting as a COTA in the Caldwell School District. As a COTA Doug has experience in multiple areas of OT such as working on fine motor skills and writing, visual motor skills and attending, and reflex integration and motor planning. He sees the uniqueness of each child and believes in the importance of building rapport by using humor, getting at their level, and connecting with them in order to help them feel known. When not working as a COTA Doug may be found doing some personal training, hiking up Table Rock, or spending time with his family.