Today we’d like to introduce you to Arianny Orellanes.
Hi Arianny, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I was born in Caracas, Venezuela, and moved to the United States in 2001. From a young age, I understood the value of hard work and service. I graduated at the top of my high school class and spent much of my free time volunteering with local organizations that supported underprivileged children. Thanks to my academic achievements and commitment to giving back, I was awarded a full-ride scholarship to Florida International University.
At FIU, I double-majored in International Business and Management. While pursuing two degrees simultaneously, I took a part-time job at a school working with children with special needs—and that experience changed my life. During my college years, I also joined a volunteer program that took me to the Dominican Republic every spring break for three years, where I worked closely with children in orphanages. Through those experiences, I realized that my heart belonged to working with kids in a more hands-on, therapeutic way.
After graduating, I decided to follow my passion and applied to pursue my Master’s in Occupational Therapy. When I was accepted into Columbia University, I knew it was the right step—even if it meant leaving sunny Florida for New York City. During my time at Columbia, I had the incredible opportunity to travel to Nicaragua and Cuba to work with underprivileged children with special needs—experiences that only reaffirmed my purpose.
After earning my degree, I moved back to Florida and began working at a private pediatric clinic in Davie that was neurologically based and widely recognized in the community. I spent almost a decade there growing as a therapist, a professional, and a leader. During those years, I also felt a deep pull to give back to the country where I was born. So, I started my own nonprofit organization to send school supplies and clothing to children in need in Venezuela. It became a personal mission—one rooted in gratitude, love, and the desire to create opportunities for others.
Eventually, I felt called to do even more—to create something of my own that reflected not only my professional experience but also my heart.
That’s how The Nest Family Center was born.
What started as a dream quickly became a safe haven for families across South Florida. Today, we offer home-based occupational therapy services and holistic support for children and their parents. Looking back, I can see how every step—every challenge, every leap of faith—led me here. It wasn’t just my education or experience that got me to this point; it was my love for people, my belief in the power of connection, and my commitment to helping others thrive.
And I wouldn’t change a thing.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Definitely not. My journey has been filled with incredible moments, but it hasn’t always been a smooth road. I’ve battled a pretty strong case of imposter syndrome along the way. Even after years of hard work, degrees, and experience, I still catch myself questioning if I’m good enough or if I truly belong—especially as a woman, an immigrant, and someone who speaks with an accent.
There were times I doubted whether I was the right fit for a job, or if I was “qualified enough” to start my own company—even when I had all the tools and passion to do it. I’ve learned that our minds can be our biggest obstacle or our greatest ally, and I’m still a work in progress when it comes to not being my own worst enemy.
But with every challenge, I’ve grown stronger. And today, I try to show up with more self-compassion and remind myself—and others—that doubt doesn’t mean you’re not capable. It just means you care enough to want to do things right. And that’s not a weakness. That’s power.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about The Nest Family Center?
We specialize in pediatric occupational therapy, and our focus goes far beyond treating symptoms. At The Nest, we look at the whole child—and the whole family. We offer in-home and school-based therapy services across South Florida, providing children with the tools they need to thrive, while also empowering parents with education, support, and guidance.
What sets us apart is our heart. Every session, every interaction, every family we work with is treated with compassion, respect, and individualized care. Our work is rooted in neuroplasticity, meaning we believe in the brain’s incredible ability to change, grow, and heal when the right support is in place. We’re known for our ability to create strong, trusting relationships with families, meet each child where they are, and gently help them build the skills they need for greater independence, regulation, and confidence.
What I’m most proud of is that The Nest is not just a business—it’s a mission. We’ve built a community of care around families who often feel overwhelmed or alone in their journey. We’ve worked with children facing developmental delays, sensory processing challenges, emotional regulation struggles, and more—and we’ve helped them make real progress. Not just in therapy, but in life.
I want readers to know that The Nest Family Center exists because I believe every child deserves a chance to succeed and every parent deserves a partner who truly listens, understands, and supports them. Whether we’re working inside a home, a classroom, or offering guidance to parents—we lead with compassion, professionalism, and a deep belief in the potential of every child.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Faith. Without a doubt.
When I’m anxious, when I’m scared, when I’m tired—faith is what keeps me going. It’s what helps me trust the process, even when the path ahead isn’t clear. I believe deeply that I was placed on this journey for a reason, and that belief gives me the strength to keep showing up, especially on the hardest days.
My faith reminds me that I’m not doing this alone, and that there’s a greater purpose behind every challenge and every victory. It’s the foundation of my resilience—and the reason I never give up.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thenestfamilycenter.org
- Instagram: @thenestfamilycenter_
