Yvonne E Stride, MOT, OTR/L : Bio and credentials

My name is Yvonne Stride, and I am an occupational therapist at UF Health. I embarked on my journey in occupational therapy after completing my bachelor of health science and master of occupational therapy at the University of Florida. My fascination in helping children with special needs led me to explore various career paths, including nursing and special education. However, after discovering occupational therapy through a school test and shadowing experience, I found my calling. I was drawn to the profession's focus on teaching functional skills to enable individuals to succeed in everyday activities.

My passion lies in working with neurodiverse individuals, particularly children and adults with Autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, Sensory processing disorder, Feeding difficulties, Developmental delays and other Neurodevelopmental disorders. My goal as a therapist is to empower neurodiverse individuals to acquire the skills they need to be independent and successful in their daily lives. I am particularly interested in sensory integration and its impact on trauma, anxiety and depression, seeking to incorporate sensory-based interventions into my practice.

With 16 years of pediatric OT experience, my journey has taken me from UF Health Rehab Center for Kids at Magnolia Parke to private OT clinics and charter schools before returning to UF Health. I am proud to have been part of the team at the Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment since its inception in 2020, where I continue to make a difference in the lives of the individuals I serve.

Outside of work, I find joy in quilting, journaling, arts and crafts and spending time with my two dogs and one cat. I also enjoy watching true crime documentaries.