Today we’d like to introduce you to Kimberly Rasor.
Hi Kimberly, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I originally began my professional life as a ballet dancer. I lived in New York City and was dancing professionally on and off, but quickly facing the economic realities of that profession. In my mid twenties I returned to college. I had been dancing since I was 9 years old and wanted to use my personal experience with overcoming challenges that I faced dancing ballet. I felt that I could use that experience to help others face their physical challenges. I originally thought I would go into physical therapy but I explored several different options. I happened to read a description that occupational therapy is about helping people gain and maintain independence over a lifetime. It spoke to me in an elemental way. I really support empowering people to succeed in that way. I was accepted into the program and became an occupational therapist. I started working with adults in my early career but found my way into pediatrics due to a location change. I realized quite quickly that working in pediatrics meant that I fell in love with every patient who came through the door. I was hooked. I have spent the last 28 years of my life as an occupational therapist working in different settings but have focused the last 19 on working with children. I have worked in hospitals, the natural environment, and now am in my own clinic. I am passionate about helping children and families meet their goals. My biggest goal is to help children become as independent as they possibly can because I believe there is dignity and a sense of fulfillment in that. I work with children with autism, physical disabilities, difficulties with regulation and sensory processing, or kids who need help with handwriting. My caseload is quite varied. I feel very lucky to have found such a rewarding career. I do think that I bring the same drive and determination to helping my kids reach their goals that I once brought to achieving a career in professional ballet. I also believe that having worked so intensely with my own physical abilities helps me bring insight into helping others develop theirs. It feels very full circle to me.
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?
For me, the business end has been the hardest part. You really don’t learn about that in college. I have had to feel my way along, but I have been fortunate to have met people who have mentored me along the way. I feel indebted to them because it’s very intimidating to step out on your own. Running a healthcare business with the never ending reimbursement challenges is a marathon. So yes, I have definitely struggled learning all the ends and outs of managing my practice.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I have been practicing in my area for about 19 years so having that longevity leads to a lot of word of mouth referrals. I do get referrals when there is less than expected progress with the current treatment. I often feel like people reach out when they have a less regulated kid who really needs structure. My approach is very routine based. I believe kids develop trust and rapport when they know what to expect and know that you aren’t going to let them fail. I would describe my approach as meeting them where they are, supporting them throughout the learning process, and removing support as they improve until they can do it on their own. I am very determined for my kids. I want them to overcome their challenges but at the same time knowing that you can lead a wonderful life with adaptations and assistance too.
How do you think about happiness?
It makes me happiest when I see the gains kids make in therapy. Sometimes it’s the parent sharing new things they have accomplished. There’s nothing like knowing that you made a difference in someone’s life. I know that sounds cliche but it is just a life truth. That’s one of the essential whys in my life.
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