Children's Theraplay is a pediatric occupational therapy group, founded in 1993 by Maggie Lesher, MA, OTR/L, an occupational therapist with over 30 years of pediatric experience. Our dedicated, knowledgeable therapists work exclusively with children and their families. Our focus on pediatrics, family-centered philosophy, and collaboration with other professionals form a strong foundation for providing effective treatment and excellent care.
Maggie Lesher, MA, OTR/L
Kristin Westbrock
Lorianne Michaud, OTR/L
Bryn Wasserman, OTR/L
April Holen, MA, OTR/L
Jen Lunde, MA, OTR/L
Marchell Vang, OTD, OTR/L
Laurie Williams, MA, OTR/L
Amanda McNaughton, OTR/L
Bonnie Meingast, MA, OTR/L
Katie Novak, OTR/L
Tricia Madison, MA, OTR/L
Betty Tepe
Owner/Director
Occupational Therapist, Registered/Licensed
Founded CT in 1993
Education:
- Bachelor of Science, Occupational Therapy, University of North Dakota
- Master of Arts, Special Education, University of St. Thomas
- Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) Licensed
- Sensory Integration and Praxis Tests (SIPT) Certified
- NCAST Certified (for assessing feeding and teaching episodes)
- Play-Based Assessment Project Trainer
- Authorized provider of The Listening Program
- Authorized provider of the Sequential Oral Sensory (SOS) Approach to Feeding
Experience:
I have over 30 years pediatric experience in home/community based, school, hospital, and clinic settings. My special interests include facilitative play strategies utilized by parents and caregivers; social interactive and play skills for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder; sensory interventions with a focus on measurable gains in functional skills; early intervention and prevention; and early childhood mental health. I also conduct workshops for parent groups and education and community organizations.
More About Me:
Being the owner and director of this clinic is tremendously fulfilling. I enjoy leading such a talented and creative group of people, and trying to keep up with them! In my spare time, I enjoy having coffee with friends, practicing Yoga, reading, gardening, organizing get-togethers with my three grown children, traveling with my husband Tom, and visiting my extended family in Iceland.
Clinic Manager
Joined CT in 2001
Experience:
As Children's Theraplay has grown from a small part-time private practice into a busy clinic, my position has developed along with it. I've also worked with Applied Behavioral Analysis for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, and therapeutic riding programs for at-risk children and adult group home residents.
More About Me:
I spend much of my free time at the stable with my horse, Reno; we compete regionally in Dressage. I also enjoy gardening, reading, Pilates, Honeycrisp apples, Sunday morning pancakes with my goddaughter Isabelle, visiting the North Shore, and listening to my husband Mike play the guitar.
Occupational Therapist, Registered/Licensed
Joined CT in 2002
Education:
- Bachelor of Science, Occupational Therapy, College of St. Catherine
- Interactive Metronome Certified Trainer
- Authorized provider of the Sequential Oral Sensory (SOS) Approach to Feeding
Experience:
I've worked in outpatient pediatrics, school settings birth to elementary age, and at a private center for children with disabilities. I've also worked as a preschool teacher, PCA/Respite care, and in adult rehabilitation.
More About Me:
I have a strong interest and involvement in special needs ministries for faith-based organizations, consulting and planning activities for youth and adults with a variety of developmental disabilities. I enjoy reading, music, and playing piano. I especially enjoy spending time with my wonderful husband Jim, and my children, Anna and twins John and Janelle.
Occupational Therapist, Registered/Licensed
Joined CT in 2003
Education:
- Bachelor of Arts, Occupational Therapy, College of St. Catherine
- Interactive Metronome Certified Trainer
Experience:
I've worked in inpatient children's mental health, outpatient pediatrics, adult acute care and in-home services, and adult and pediatric rehabilitation. I've also worked at summer camps through the Minneapolis Parks and Rec. for many years.
More About Me:
I enjoy spending time with my husband Shane and our daughter, Addison Jade. I like playing with my dog Ella, who I am training to be a therapy dog. I'm learning to play golf, scrapbook, and knit. I also enjoy watching movies, traveling to NY to visit family, having tea with friends and family, biking, and eating out at different ethnic restaurants and ice cream shops.
Occupational Therapist, Registered/LicensedJoined CT in 2004
Education:
- Bachelor of Arts, Psychology and Communication
- Master of Arts, Occupational Therapy, Chatham College
- Pursuing an Autism Spectrum Disorder Certificate through Hamline University
- Interactive Metronome Certified Trainer
- Authorized provider of the Sequential Oral Sensory (SOS) Feeding Approach
Experience:
I've worked in a neonatal intensive care unit; inpatient and outpatient pediatrics; a child & family center for children with developmental delays, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and mental health concerns; and in adult acute care.
More About Me:
I enjoy traveling with my husband Jeremy, golfing, biking, reading, watching movies, playing games, knitting, scrapbooking, and eating! I love animals of all kinds, especially my dog Myko, and cat, Delphi. I also volunteer for the Special Olympics.
Occupational Therapist Registered/LicensedJoined CT in 2004
Education:
- Bachelor of Arts, Health Sciences
- Master of Arts, Occupational Therapy, College of St. Scholastica
- Interactive Metronome Certified Trainer
I've worked in pediatric outpatient, adult rehabilitation, and as a QMRP, providing in-home and group home services for children and adults with Autism Spectrum and related Disorders. I have also worked as a PCA for children with autism and Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, and have experience as a behavior therapist utilizing Applied Behavior Therapy techniques.
More About Me:
My husband Corey and I live in White Bear Lake. I enjoy traveling, watching movies, crafts, playing card and board games, and spending time with family and friends.
Occupational Therapist, Registered/LicensedJoined CT in 2004
Education:
- Bachelor of Arts, Communication with Specialization in Health Communication
- Doctor of Occupational Therapy, Creighton University
- Interactive Metronome Certified Trainer
- Authorized provider of the Sequential Oral Sensory (SOS) Feeding Approach
- Level II Reiki
I have worked in pediatric outpatient, adult outpatient, and orthopedic rehabilitation. I've also worked as Curriculum Coordinator for an enrichment program for at-risk, inner city, minority adolescent girls, and at the Minnesota Youth Work Institute.
More About Me:
I enjoy watching movies, traveling, golfing, photography, chocolate, ice cream, non-commercialized coffee houses, experiencing exotic foods/cultures, rollercoaster rides, the Pacific Ocean, foreign movies/music, the Christmas season, anything pink, and creative writing.
Occupational Therapist, Registered/LicensedJoined CT in 2005
Education:
- Bachelor of Arts, Occupational Therapy, College of St.Catherine
- Master of Arts, Education, Saint Mary's University
- Interactive Metronome Certified Trainer
- Authorized provider of the Sequential Oral Sensory (SOS) Feeding Approach
I have worked in early childhood, elementary, and middle school settings, as well as outpatient pediatrics and home-based care. In addition to Children's Theraplay, I currently work in a public school district.
More About Me:
I am married with four boys; we live in Stillwater with our cat, Gypsy. My hobbies include walking, aerobics, reading, knitting, bowling, softball, and eating chocolate. My family also enjoys going to movies, eating out, and visiting relatives at their cabins when we get the time.
Occupational Therapist, Registered/LicensedJoined CT in 2007
Education:
- Bachelor of Arts, Occupational Therapy, University of Wisconsin, LaCrosse
- Interactive Metronome Certified Trainer
I've worked at a child and family center for children with developmental delays, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and mental health concerns, outpatient pediatrics, and also in adult transitional care.
More About Me:
I enjoy reading; playing games; scrapbooking/cardmaking; watching movies; playing with my dog Tucker and my bird Jade; and traveling with my husband Nate.
Occupational Therapist, Registered/LicensedJoined CT in 2007
Education:
- Bachelor of Science, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Education
- Master of Arts, College of St. Catherine, Occupational Therapy
- Interactive Metronome Certified Trainer
- Authorized provider of the Sequential Oral Sensory (SOS) Feeding Approach
I have taught preschool through high school students and been a director of a preschool. While living in Illinois, I helped design and implement occupational therapy and educational programs in public school settings for pediatric populations with special needs. Over the years, I have worked with children challenged by developmental delays, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, cerebral palsy, Down Syndrome as well as varied physical and emotional disorders.
More About Me:
Throughout my life, I have volunteered in diverse roles within the community. My husband and I like to travel, especially to see our three adult daughters and one grandchild. I enjoy reading, gardening, listening to music, dancing, biking, drawing, and painting. I have two small dogs, but appreciate all of nature.
Occupational Therapist, Registered/LicensedJoined CT in 2007
Education:
- Bachelor of Science, Occupational Therapy, College of St. Catherine
- Interactive Metronome Certified Trainer
- Authorized provider of the Sequential Oral Sensory (SOS) Feeding Approach
- Trained in Craniosacral and Somatoemotional Release, Upledger Institute
I have worked at an outpatient clinic for children who have brain injuries. I have also worked in the public schools, home care, therapeutic horseback riding, and adult transitional care.
More About Me:
I enjoy the performing arts, especially singing and dancing. In my free time, I like to ride my bike, eat M&M cookies, and hang out with friends.
Occupational Therapist, Registered/LicensedJoined CT in 2007
Education:
- Bachelor of Arts, Health Sciences
- Master of Arts, Occupational Therapy, College of St. Scholastica
- Interactive Metronome Certified Trainer
- Authorized provider of the Sequential Oral Sensory (SOS) Feeding Approach
I have worked in a child and family day treatment facility for children with ASD, developmental delays, and mental health concerns. I've also worked in outpatient pediatrics and adult rehab.
More About Me:
I enjoy spending time with my husband Ryan, and son Martin. I also like to garden, go for walks, play board games, and watch movies.
Administrative AssistantJoined CT in 2007
Experience:
I've worked as a clinic service representative at a facial surgery clinic; as a receptionist for a multinational information management corporation; and as a front desk receptionist at an ENT clinic.
More About Me:
In my free time, I enjoy playing with my puppy, Edie, playing the guitar, and listening to Bob Dylan. I also love camping in the BWCA; reading anything by Jack Kerouac; meditating; counter-cultural musings; drinking herbal tea; Buddhism; and going on spontaneous adventures with my peeps.