Nicole J Tester, MOT, PhD

Hello, I'm Nicole Tester, an occupational therapist at UF Health. I obtained my bachelor of science in chemistry from Millikin University in Decatur, IL, followed by a Ph.D. in biomedical sciences with a concentration in neuroscience from the University of Florida. Subsequently, I completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Florida and the VAMC's Brain Rehab Research Center before pursuing a master's in occupational therapy at the University of Florida.

I am certified as a multiple sclerosis specialist by The Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers and specialize in movement and neuromuscular disorders, including Parkinson's Disease, Parkinsonisms, essential tremor and multiple sclerosis. My dedication and accomplishments in the field of occupational therapy were recognized nationally when I was honored with one of the highest awards granted by the American Occupational Therapy Foundation, among only four occupational therapy students.

As an occupational therapist, my primary goal is to provide education and treatment to my patients, enabling them to maintain function and optimize independence in the activities that matter most to them. I am particularly passionate about increasing awareness of the impact Parkinson's Disease can have on vision and visual functioning, as well as studying motor and activities of daily living outcomes post-deep brain stimulation surgery in individuals with Parkinson's Disease and essential tremor.

Outside of work, I enjoy kayaking, snow skiing and traveling. My greatest joy comes from spending quality time with my husband and our energetic 4-year-old son.