Today we’d like to introduce you to Caroline Fournier.
Hi Caroline, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I was born and raised on Martha’s Vineyard in Massachusetts, where I developed a strong sense of community and connection. I went on to attend Quinnipiac University in Connecticut, where I completed an accelerated master’s program in Occupational Therapy. Even during my schooling, I knew pediatrics was where my heart was—I was always drawn to the creativity, connection, and potential that comes with working with children and families.
After passing my boards, I moved to Los Angeles and began my career as an in-home early intervention occupational therapist. I also gained experience in school-based settings, which gave me valuable insight into supporting children across different environments. Eventually, I transitioned into clinic-based work, starting part-time on the weekends at Therapy Place for Kids.
That part-time role grew into a full-time position, then into a Lead OT role, and now into my current position as Clinic Director. I’ve been with the same practice for over seven years, and during that time, I’ve developed a strong passion for mentorship—especially in supporting new grads as they build confidence and clinical reasoning. I’ve also taken on responsibilities in helping the owner manage and grow the business, which has added a whole new dimension to my professional journey.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My journey hasn’t been completely smooth, but those early challenges shaped who I am today. As a new graduate working in-home with the 0-3 year old population in the Los Angeles area, I had very little mentorship. The work was rewarding but often overwhelming as I learned clinical decision-making and built trust with families on my own.
With limited support, I leaned heavily on continuing education and self-directed learning, which eventually led me to a clinic setting with wonderful mentors who helped me grow. That experience sparked my passion for mentorship and fostering a supportive workplace culture—something I now focus on as a clinic leader.
Taking on leadership brought new challenges: supporting my team, navigating group dynamics, and overseeing business operations—skills beyond my clinical training. These responsibilities stretched me, and while I faced tough moments, they taught me resilience, the importance of boundaries, and how to lead with intention.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a pediatric occupational therapist with experience in homes, schools, and clinic settings. I’m certified in Sensory Integration through the University of California (USC), trained in Handwriting Without Tears, hold STAR ProCert Proficiency 1, and have my Advanced Practice in Swallowing Assessment, Evaluation, and Intervention (SWC) through the California Board of Occupational Therapy.
I’m passionate about personalized therapy that promotes children’s growth and independence, drawing on clinical expertise in sensory integration, feeding and swallowing interventions, and fine motor and functional motor skill development. I’m known for collaborating closely with speech and physical therapists—as well as teachers, ABA professionals, and other members of a child’s care team—to create tailored, multidisciplinary care plans.
I’m proud of my commitment to mentorship, supporting new grads as they develop their skills. What sets me apart is my blend of clinical expertise and leadership, focused on fostering growth for children, families, and my team.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
Over the next 5 to 10 years, I see myself continuing to grow both clinically and as a leader. I want to deepen my expertise in pediatric occupational therapy—especially in areas like sensory integration and feeding—while expanding my impact through mentorship and team development.
I also see myself expanding my impact beyond the clinic by continuing to grow both professionally and personally. I’m interested in pursuing advanced training and mentorship opportunities that deepen my expertise and leadership skills. By embracing new technologies and innovative approaches, I hope to develop new ways to deliver care that are even more personalized and accessible, reaching children and families across different settings.
Ultimately, I want to be known not just for my clinical skills, but for fostering a supportive, collaborative environment where therapists can thrive and children receive the best care possible.
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