Our therapists

Experience you can trust. Care you'll appreciate.

Our therapists

Experience you can trust. Care you'll appreciate.

Kayla Bryant

Founder & Director

“I welcome you to a safe space of authentic acceptance for people of all abilities.”

About Kayla

My name is Kayla Bryant and I am an occupational therapist and mom to a beautiful 4 year old, living in Asheville, NC. I have a passion for helping my clients connect and take control of their bodies through a holistic, client centered approach.

You may be wondering how I ended up on this journey as an occupational therapist working with pediatrics and adults experiencing pelvic floor dysfunction and sensory processing differences? And what does an occupational therapist actually do?

Occupational therapists are educated in the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of a person, which means we can address the vast majority of the factors that impact an individual’s pelvic health and daily life. We use a truly holistic approach.

Now that you know what this amazing profession can do, why did I choose to become an OT?

As a child I experienced sensory sensitivities that manifested into physical and emotional problems. I did not like the way my clothes felt, the bright lights in preschool, the loud noises on TV, and I ate the same breakfast food everyday for almost 2 years. As I got older I experienced urinary urgency, UTIs, and IBS. My parents were constantly searching for answers and I was made to believe it could be all in my head.

When I was 15, my grandfather had a stroke and received occupational therapy services. The treatment interventions were creative and unique incorporating what was most meaningful to him—gardening, cooking, and playing with his dog. They considered how his disability impacted his quality of life and used a functional treatment approach to reach the main goal—living life to his fullest potential.

I was introduced to pediatric occupational therapy while completing the Masters degree program at West Virginia University. My last fieldwork (internship) was completed in a sensory clinic focusing on sensory integration and feeding difficulties. The children I worked with reminded me of myself as a child and it clicked. Since then, my passion for children exploded and my determination to provide a multimodality approach to treatment began to unfold.

After having my daughter in December 2018, I experienced my own pelvic floor dysfunction, which led me to study and treat the condition on my own. Through extensive continuing education I am able to treat pediatrics and adults with pelvic floor conditions. With the combined knowledge, professional, and personal experience, I strive to help my clients find the balance and confidence they need to take control of their lives and loving themselves from the inside out!

If you’re seeking quality whole-person care regarding your child, yourself, or your family, I am glad we have found each other and I look forward to meeting you!

Education & Experience

  • Advanced Professional in Sensory Processing- Certified Level 1 STAR Institute
  • Somatic Experiencing Institute- Beginner I, II, III and Intermediate I, II, III
  • Safe and Sound Protocol- iLS
  • Becoming a Behavioral Detective- Kim Barthel
  • Trauma Informed Practice: Exploring and Applying Psycho-sensory Interventions
  • Hands-On Biofeedback for Complex Pelvic Floor Cases
  • Biofeedback Evaluation and Treatment for Elimination Disorders and Pelvic Floor Disorders
  • Herman and Wallace Trauma-Informed Pelvic Care
  • Herman and Wallace PF1 & 2B
  • Herman and Wallace Pediatric GI
  • Pediatric Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation by Dawn Sandalcidi
  • Dynamic Core Applied: the Challenge of Incontinence
  • OT Pioneers: Introduction to Pelvic Floor Therapy for Occupational Therapists
  • STAR Institute Level 1 Mentorship Program
  • The SOS Approach to Feeding: Picky Eaters vs. Problem Feeders
  • Handwriting Without Tears K-5
  • Building Blocks for Sensory Integration, presented by: Vital Links
  • Making Sensory Integration Measurable: Clinical Observations and Clinical Reasoning in Sensory Integration, presented by: Dr. Gustavo Reinoso
  • Dynamic Feeding Assessment and Intervention in Sensory Integration and Autism, presented by: Juliana Gutiérrez MA, OTR/L, SWC
  • Bilateral Integration: A Comprehensive Approach to Bilateral Integration, presented by: Vital Links

Rebecca Fiscal

Therapist

About Rebecca

My name is Rebecca Kramer Fiscal and I’m an Occupational Therapist at the Family OT. My first career was as an elementary school classroom teacher for 15 years. In 2012 I was profoundly inspired by a pediatric occupational therapist who came into my first-grade classroom and helped solve many behavioral, learning and emotional problems that teachers (including myself) are so often perplexed by, and often lead to challenging and even damaging experiences for children as well as teacher burn out. This OT’s approach, tools and techniques were so powerful, so healing and beyond anything I had learned in the educational field or while getting my Masters in Education, I decided to pursue a degree in occupational therapy to continue working with children, families and teachers in this new way. Since earning my OT degree in 2017, it has been my unwavering intention to assist my clients in making meaningful and lasting changes to expand, enhance and heal what is needed to live a life of joy, purpose, ease and passion.

I started my career in Atlanta, GA where I provided school based occupational therapy for preschool through high school students and worked at About Play Therapy, a pediatric occupational therapy outpatient clinic. While in the school system I designed and led several workshops for teachers to address the sensory, behavioral, and developmental needs of children. I was also the program creator, director and leader for summer camps for children with special needs while at About Play Therapy.

Additionally, I have been trained in a variety of energetic healing modalities including: Vibrational Synergy Levels 1 and 2; Auric Light Alchemy levels 1 through 4; I’m a Reiki Master; and I engage in a variety of meditation and yoga practices on a daily basis. I have always been intrigued by the complex layers of physical, mental, emotional, energetic, and spiritual aspects that make up a person. As a result, I take a holistic approach when helping individuals to reach their goals and to live fully. I am also the author of the book Let Them Move: Why Its Essential Students Get More Movement in Schools & How to Integrate More Movement into the Classroom for Greater Learning Outcomes, currently available on Amazon.

I now reside in Asheville, North Carolina with my dog Chevy. My favorite activities are traveling, planning/hosting events for friends and family, folk dancing, hiking, biking, camping, yoga and meditation, and sharing time with my family and dog.

Hannah Beveridge

Therapist

About Hannah

My name is Hannah Beveridge and I am an occupational therapist at the Family OT.

I’m originally from Florida and graduated from Florida State with a degree in psychology and sociology in 2017. At that time, all I knew was that I wanted to serve people and promote wellness in some capacity. After graduating, I moved to Western North Carolina and spent a year working at a Young Life camp. I quickly fell in love with the mountains and decided to make this place my home.

I spent the following two years working at a local preschool. During this time, I had the privilege of observing and learning alongside an OT on a regular basis. This season was filled with playing tag on the playground and learning how the mission of occupational therapy aligns with my own values and strengths. I developed a passion for this profession and this population and decided to pursue a career as an OT.

I attended Milligan University and graduated with my master’s in occupational therapy in 2022. Throughout my clinical fieldwork, I gained experience in working with individuals with a variety of different needs and abilities, including those with ASD, SPD, developmental delays, and feeding difficulties. I am so grateful and excited to promote participation, wellness, and life to the fullest in our community.

I currently live in Brevard, where I like to go on walks with my husband and our dog, spend time in the woods, laugh with friends, wander around the library, and drink strong coffee.

Uma Thompson

Therapist

“Through safety and connection, I assist in building skills for embodied self-regulation.”

About Uma

My name is Uma, and I am a mother, an occupational therapist, ayurvedic practitioner, massage therapist, yoga instructor, herbalist, educator, and postpartum doula. I am deeply committed to integrative health with two decades of experience as a holistic health practitioner specializing in women’s and pediatric health.

From a young age, I loved plants, nature, healing, and the mysteries of birth. I majored in women’s health and ecology at Hampshire College in Amherst, MA. My thesis entitled, Color the Moon Red, is a study of the connection between the menstrual cycle and the lunar cycle. During my third year of college, I did a transfer year at the New Mexico Academy of Healing Arts, in Santa Fe, NC and I became a massage therapist and yoga instructor. Following college, I studied at the Rocky Mountain Institute of Yoga and Ayurveda, in Boulder, CO where I became an Ayurvedic postpartum doula. I spent a year abroad in India, studying Ayurveda at the source. Upon return, I graduated from The Ayurvedic Institute in Albuquerque, NM, with one of the grandfathers of Ayurvedic Medicine in the West, Dr. Vasant Lad.

My husband, Marek Sawicki, and I have a private practice in Ayurvedic medicine, massage therapy, and yoga therapy called Living Alchemy Ayurveda. In my Ayurvedic practice, I help women to balance their hormones and honor their body rhythms for a smother menstrual cycle. I also support women to have a healthy childbearing year as well as restore health during the postpartum window. I work with babies to promote healthy bonding and healthy digestion, as well as balance their systems through craniosacral therapy. I also work with children to support digestive health and nervous system regulation.

I wanted to broaden my understanding of integrative medicine and was drawn to the holistic approach of occupational therapy, as well as the focus on pediatrics and mental health. During my pediatric fieldwork at Brenau University in Norcross, GA, I gained a deep respect for the transformative power of occupational therapy to help children in the areas of sensory integration, emotional regulation, and somatic connection.

In my work with children, I focus on a whole brain approach that promotes bonding, connection, and emotional intelligence. I was a part of a cooperative parent-run playgroup with my son, which ran for four years, and was based on conscious discipline and the work of Becky Bailey. I am also influenced by Dan Sigel and Peter Levine’s work with trauma resiliency and somatic connection.

I plan to do additional training in the areas of perinatal mental health, sensory integration, somatic experiencing, and nature therapy for trauma resolution. I look forward to supporting children and families to connect more deeply with themselves and create healthy relationships for a vital life. I am a mother of a magical girl and a wild-spirited boy and enjoy hiking in nature, tending my garden, and time for deep relaxation and integration.

Hannah Shade

Therapist

About Hannah

Hello! My name is Hannah and I’m an occupational therapist. Originally from the Philadelphia area, I earned my Masters of Occupational Therapy from Ithaca College in 2019. I moved to Asheville in September 2021, feeling drawn to the beautiful mountains and culture of this place.

Since high school, it has been my dream to be an occupational therapist. I was drawn to the profession due to the opportunities it presents to collaborate with people in order to help them live their most fulfilling and meaningful lives. Since my fieldwork in a variety of pediatric settings, I’ve felt specifically called to working alongside children and their caregivers.

I love to be silly, play games, and meet children where they’re at to help them achieve their goals. One of my clients forgot my name once and called me “The Fun Doctor” and that’s really all I could ever hope for! In my free time, enjoy exploring Asheville, playing with my dog, and completing jigsaw puzzles!

“Inclusion is not bringing people into a space that already exists; it is making a new space, a better space for everyone." - George Dei

Kimberly Styche

Therapist

About Kimberly

My name is Kimberly Styche and I am an Occupational Therapist here at The Family OT. I was first introduced to occupational therapy at a young age where I watched a family member receive services during a difficult time. Her rehabilitation not only made an obvious positive impact on her life but mine as well. From that moment, I knew that is what I wanted to do.

As a holistic Occupational Therapist I believe it is very important to get to know each of my clients, including their family, on a more personal level to better assist their unique situation. Through my work in various clinics, I feel education for both clients and those involved in their life plays a key role for progress. As a therapist, there is no better feeling than seeing your client gain confidence, grow each session, and succeed at their goals. I have a particular interest in trauma, self- regulation, and sensory processing for all spans of life and am continuing my education in these areas to better serve my clients.

Originally from Pittsburgh PA, my husband and I moved to North Carolina just after graduate school. I graduated with a Bachelors of Psychology degree from Bethany College followed with a Masters degree in Occupational Therapy from Chatham University. When I’m not working, I enjoy being with my family including our 3 rescue dogs, practicing yoga, trying new recipes in the kitchen, scrapbooking, and rooting for Pittsburgh sports teams!

"I want to share my knowledge with my clients to help enjoy them every day this life has to offer."

Laura Wise

Therapist

“Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt.” – John Muir

About Laura

Greetings! My name is Laura Wise and I have been an occupational therapy practitioner for 10 years. I have served in several pediatric settings including public schools, day cares, private schools, and early intervention.

I grew up in Boone, NC and the Raleigh area. I have lived all over North Carolina from the beach, Sandhills, and Piedmont. I now call Asheville my forever home.

My OT journey began long before I was in practice. Grandma Wise learned from an OT how to navigate her home when she lost her sight. Her independence was fiercely important and she retained her ability to make her own coffee among other things with adaptive and modified methods. I was mightily impressed!

My school background consists of a bachelor degree at App State for Fine Arts, Cape Fear Community College for occupational therapy assistant, and Cabarrus College of Health Sciences for my MOT in Occupational Therapy.

I love to play and will never grow up! Creating a fun and informative atmosphere for families is an important aspect of treatment for a child. I am versed with the Get Permission, the Learn, Play, Thrive approach, and I have knowledge with DIRFloortime®  that has shaped much of how I focus my practice. Movement and multi-sensory activities are important parts of therapy depending on each child’s profile and specific needs.

I love learning about a child’s strengths and favorite things so I can incorporate them into therapy. Every child is different and met on their level as we learn and explore through the lens of OT. All family dynamics are unique. Complimenting therapy with a holistic guide is key to unlocking even more potential!

If I am not at work, you might find me on the trails, local greenways, or at a race as my passion for running and photographing nature is my recharge. I have an appreciation for the outside, gardening, and weather. Go outside and play!

Lia Downs

Therapist

About Lia

Hello, my name is Lia, and I’m an occupational therapist with a passion for supporting individuals in achieving greater independence and engagement in meaningful activities. Originally from the Dayton, Ohio area, I later moved to Denver, Colorado, before earning my Master of Occupational Therapy from Pfeiffer University, NC  in 2024. In August 2024, my husband and I relocated to Asheville, drawn to its vibrant community and its resemblance to a “mini Denver” nestled in the Smoky Mountains.

My professional journey began in high school when I developed a deep appreciation for working with children through an early childhood education career tech program. I went on to spend two years in Denver as an early childhood special educator, where I discovered my desire to take a more holistic approach to child development. While I valued my time supporting students academically, I became increasingly passionate about fostering essential life skills—empowering children to develop functional independence by enhancing fine and gross motor skills, sensory processing, and self-regulation. My goal is to help people fully participate in meaningful daily activities with confidence and success. This realization led me to pursue a career in occupational therapy, where I could have a more profound impact on the whole child and their families.

Outside of work, you can find me at the aerial silks studio, hiking in the mountains, or exploring downtown Asheville while playing Pokémon Go.

Esme Kempler

Therapist

About Esme

Hi, I’m Esme and I am an occupational therapist. I have a huge heart for giving littles the best start in life, by supporting their early development. My passion for neuroscience along with my love of babies and toddlers has led me to find my niche in OT- that makes work feel like play!

I’ve been practicing occupational therapy since 2017 and primarily have spent my career serving infants and toddlers (0-3 years old). I have worked in a variety of pediatric settings, including: early intervention, early childhood education, and outpatient clinics. I received a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from California State University Channel Islands and then went on to receive my Masters of Occupational Therapy from the University of St. Augustine. Since then, I have been able to live all over the country, helping this precious age group and their families thrive.

My treatments focus on a holistic approach to support your child’s emerging skills, as well as helping parents to bolster their understanding during early development. I enjoy providing my services in your child’s natural environment, where they feel safe and comfortable- whether that is at your home, outside, or in the community. Babies learn best when they are at ease and play helps to achieve development!

I’ve had the opportunity to provide therapy for a wide range of medical diagnoses and conditions, including but not limited to: premature birth, Torticollis, Down syndrome, Autism, Congenital Heart Defects, Cerebral Palsy, Failure to Thrive, Developmental Delays, Feeding Difficulties, Cleft Palate, along with Sensory Processing and Integration concerns.

On the weekends you can find me movin’ and groovin’ in the mountains or finding peace out on the water. My spirit is fulfilled by being in nature whether I’m hiking, standup paddle boarding, making art, practicing yoga or discovering new places with my husband.

Katie Grabowski

Therapist

About Katie

My name is Katie and I look forward to serving clients with The Family OT! I have multiple years of experience in outpatient pediatrics and am currently a full-time school OT. I’m from Raleigh and went to Radford University for graduate school.

I currently live in West Asheville with my partner, two cats and two dogs. When I’m not working, you can find me in my vegetable garden or hiking with my dogs. I became a pediatric OT due to my love for being a part of children’s small daily successes. My favorite specialties to practice are animal-assisted therapy and therapeutic gardening. Working with kids allows me to be creative and to laugh every day. I wouldn’t trade my job for anything and can’t wait to meet everyone.

Andrea Jacobson

Therapist

About Andrea

Hi! I’m Andrea Jacobson. I hold a Master’s of Occupational Therapy from Cleveland State University and a Bachelor’s of Science in Education from Ohio University. I was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio and have worked as an OT in Providence, Cleveland, Denver, and then the Bay Area before making my way here to Asheville. I love to travel and have explored almost all the United States… I wonder if you can guess which one is left on my bucket list? One travel highlight was volunteering at a hippotherapy center in Bolivia and being invited to present the OT lens to teachers at The Catholic University in La Paz. This experience combined with working with children, families, and teachers across the spectrum of socio-economic and cultural backgrounds and in a multitude of settings has provided me the gift of truly seeing people and meeting them exactly where they are. I have witnessed amazing things happen on children’s emotional and physical developmental trajectory when they feel safe and secure to be and express exactly who they are, connected to their body and environment, and competent and confident to use their tools to help get them there. My greatest joy is helping children and the people who love them find their center, uncover their gifts, and utilize their intensity as their super-powers.

I love learning and expanding my OT lens and have certifications in The Nurtured Heart Approach®, Intuition Medicine™, Therapeutic Listening®, Interactive Metronome®, and Occupational Therapy in Schools. I have advanced training in a myriad of topics including applied heart rhythm meditation, brain and sensory foundations – primitive reflex integration, sensory processing, ADHD, autism and mental health, Eyesight to Insight®, problem solving, The Multiple Intelligences, Respectful Confrontation®, deep listening and crisis prevention/intervention, Mindful Motherhood®, primitive earth skills, and strategies for reluctant learners. I dive deep into studying and observing relationships, communication, and parenting methods; promoting mental health; early childhood social, emotional, physical, sensory, and brain development; neuroplasticity – play and the brain; behaviors as communications; alternative approaches to self-regulation, co-regulation, sensory processing, integration, and perception; integration of body-mind-spirit, Polyvagal Theory; body as messenger; heart rate variability; dynamic systems; and, autism, ADHD, anxiety, conduct disorder, ODD, and The Highly Sensitive Child.

In addition to providing OT services through The Family OT, I help families and teachers learn and implement The Nurtured Heart Approach®(NHA) in their homes and classrooms. NHA is a proven positive parenting method that builds inner-wealth and transforms how we relate to children and how intense children move through the world. I offer NHA classes, parent gatherings, parent coaching, child coaching, Family playshops, playdates, and Nurturing Greatness small groups. You can check it out at www.childcoachapproach.com.

Christine Beevers

Therapy Assistant

About Christine

Hi! I’m Christine and I have been a Pediatric COTA for the past 5 years, and in the OT profession for the last 7. My love for kids started early when I began my first career as an Early Childhood Educator at the age of 17. I met a few amazing kids in my classroom that were receiving OT services and immediately fell in love with the profession.

Being part of a client’s process in finding and achieving their independence is something I am very passionate about! I am truly a big kid at heart, I love to be silly in my sessions, and I love sensory play! Following a child’s lead is the greatest way to connect to their world, meet them where they are, and help them reach their goals. Being part of this process is a privilege I do not take lightly and I will always strive for greatness in meeting your child’s needs.

I am thrilled to be part of the Family OT and looking forward to meeting all of you and your little ones!

Shea Ferretti

Therapist

About Shea

Hello! My name is Shea Ferretti and I am an Occupational Therapist. Originally from New York, I moved to the beautiful city of Asheville, NC after graduating with my Masters in Occupational Therapy from Dominican University.  My desire to work with children grew while watching my mom as a teacher. As someone who was always drawn to helping others, finding occupational therapy was a perfect blend between teaching, compassion, and creativity.

I enjoy collaborating with caregivers towards a family-centered and strengths-based approach. I also utilize a holistic lens and strive to support your child and family through early development. Specifically, I am passionate about feeding therapy and trauma informed care. I value cultivating therapeutic relationships with the whole family while building trust and connection towards reaching your goals. I completed training in the SOS Approach to Feeding, CAN-EAT Approach, the Focus System, and the Safe and Sound Protocol.

I have two Bernedoodles who love exploring the mountains of western NC. I find joy in creating art, propagating plants, paddle boarding, practicing yoga and aerial silks! I look forward to working with you!

Meg Smeraglia

Therapist

“Enjoy the little things in life, because one day you’ll look back and realize they were the big things” -Kurt Vonnegut

About Meg

Hello! My name is Meg and I am an occupational therapist and certified clinical aromatherapist with a passion for holistic, trauma informed, and client-driven care.

My journey into OT came from a longing to help clients create fulfilling lives. After a dear friend of mine experienced a spinal cord injury, I witnessed how impactful OT can be at empowering people to come back home to themselves, through engaging in activities that bring meaning and purpose.

Formerly based in Illinois, I devoted the majority of my OT career to assisting youth and adults in enhancing their mental health. While at UI Health in Chicago, I was honored to be the recipient of the 2019 Employee of the Year award for my work serving underprivileged youth & advocacy for trauma informed care hospital wide.

During this time, I saw first-hand the benefits of using integrative health approaches for whole person wellness. Since then, I have become a certified clinical aromatherapist, reiki practitioner, & am continually expanding my knowledge on holistic healing modalities.

My therapeutic style is founded on a collaborative approach that emphasizes strengths, interests & desires. I particularly love supporting individuals with emotional regulation, sensory processing, life & social skills development, cultivating spirituality, coping strategies, grief healing, boosting self-esteem and creating nurturing lifestyles.

 

Outside of being an OT, my deep love of nature brought me to Asheville. You can find me hiking, dancing, being artsy & geeking out about human design any chance I get. I am overjoyed to join The Family OT team and become a healing agent for the Asheville community.

Dana DeChiaro

Therapist

About Dana

My name is Dana DeChiaro and I have been an Occupational Therapist since 2013. I’ve worked in many settings all over the country, such as: hospitals, schools, nursing homes, outpatient centers, from New York, to California, to Oregon, Colorado, and of course Western North Carolina. Pediatrics has always been my passion that I find myself continually gravitating back towards.

I especially love working with the parent-child duo, focusing on attachment, connection, nervous system regulation, and fostering understanding of sensory cues to create body awareness for mindful responses and internal balance.

I am a certified yoga instructor, Ayurvedic health counselor and have studied various eastern philosophies that all meaningfully contribute to parts of my therapeutic approach and treatments. I also especially love working with the Enneagram to understand personality patterns! I look forward to meeting you all.

Lily Koerber

Therapist

About Lily

I am a North Carolina native, originally from Franklin, NC. I now live outside Brevard with my husband and daughter on our 14 acre homestead in the woods. We spend most of our time playing outside, whether it’s on bikes, paddle boards or kayaks, in our hiking shoes, camping, foraging, or gardening.

I received my Master’s in Occupational Science from UNC Chapel Hill in 2008 and have since worked as an OT in many settings, including early intervention, K-12 schools, and private pediatrics in home, preschool, and clinical settings. I am a Certified Autism Clinical Specialist with over 10 years of pediatric experience. I have always felt like pediatrics was my true calling and am so happy to be at The Family OT to continue my career and my passion for working with kids.

Leigh Suttlemyre

Administrative Assistant

About Leigh

My name is Leigh Suttlemyre. I live in the Asheville area with my partner and step-son. I have a 21 year old daughter that lives close-by and is my whole world. My family and friends are the most important things in my life.

I have worked in an administrative capacity for many years in a variety of settings. I feel so lucky to have been given the opportunity to work with Kayla and The Family OT team. The holistic and client centered approach that is being used resonates very deeply with me. I find such joy in helping kids and families find services that can enrich their lives.

Outside of my work life I find escape in finding creative outlets and attending live music. Music is such a freeing, spiritual & healing experience for me and recharges my soul on every level.