Occupational Therapist , North London & Marlow
Creative, child-centred, and passionate about helping young people build confidence and independence, Ria is dedicated to helping children develop the skills they need to thrive in everyday life.
Her journey into paediatric occupational therapy began in 2013 while studying Psychology and completing a placement at a specialist school. It was there that she discovered the profound impact occupational therapy can have on a child’s confidence, participation, and wellbeing. Inspired by this experience, she spent the next eight years working as an Occupational Therapy Assistant, supporting children and young people with autism and other learning needs to develop the skills required for meaningful participation at home, school, and in their communities.
In 2024, Ria qualified as an Occupational Therapist after completing a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy at Brunel University London. During her training, she gained valuable experience across a range of healthcare settings, including Accident & Emergency services, community rehabilitation, inpatient mental health services, and dementia care. These experiences strengthened her holistic understanding of health, wellbeing, and the importance of meaningful occupation throughout life.
A particular highlight of her career has been collaborating with Mayuri Tokekar on the development of the innovative OT Café Project, which received national recognition through the TES Independent School Awards and the Education Business Awards. The project reflected her passion for creating engaging, real-life learning opportunities that build confidence, independence, and life skills.
Ria believes that children learn best when they are engaged, motivated, and having fun. Her therapy sessions are carefully tailored to each child’s unique strengths, interests, and goals, using play-based and purposeful activities to create meaningful learning experiences.
She supports children and young people with a wide range of everyday challenges, including:
- Developing independence in self-care and daily living skills
- Improving fine motor skills and handwriting
- Building gross motor skills, balance, and coordination
- Supporting participation at home, school, and in the community
- Developing confidence, problem-solving skills, and independence
- Learning practical life skills such as cooking, travel training, and organisation
Whether working in a school, family home, community setting, or at the Kidspire OT Clinic in Marlow, her focus is always on helping children and young people achieve goals that are meaningful to them and their families.
Above all, she is passionate about empowering young people to recognise their strengths, overcome challenges, and participate fully in the activities that matter most to them.
“Every child deserves the opportunity to build confidence, develop independence, and experience success in the activities that matter most to them.”