MEGAN VELASCO

Megan Velasco is a highly accomplished Pediatric Occupational Therapist with over 20 years of experience providing specialized care to children from birth to age 21. Her career spans a diverse range of settings, including early intervention, clinics, schools, and home-based therapy. Known for her boundless energy, creativity, and organizational skills, Megan Velasco is a leader in her field, bringing an exceptional level of dedication and innovation to every aspect of her practice.

Megan Velasco earned her Bachelor of Science, Master of Arts, and Clinical Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from the University of Southern California. During this rigorous academic journey, she gained expertise in Sensory Integration Treatment and Theory and became certified to administer the Sensory Integration and Praxis Test (SIPT). Megan Velasco’s professional memberships include the American Occupational Therapy Association and the National Board of Occupational Therapy, of which she has been a proud member since 2000.

In February 2023, Megan Velasco launched Play. Grow. Thrive. – a premier pediatric sensory integration clinic in Santa Monica, CA. As the founder and owner, Megan Velasco designed and built the clinic, established comprehensive assessment protocols, and developed treatment planning strategies. She leads a talented team of occupational therapists, fostering an environment of collaboration and professional growth. Under her leadership, the clinic has become a trusted resource for families seeking innovative and personalized care.

Before establishing her clinic, Megan Velasco served as Clinical Director at Bloom Pediatrics in Santa Monica from December 2021 to January 2023. There, she provided intake assessments and OT recommendations for families, designed and managed a five-level internship program for graduate students, and mentored a team of four occupational therapists. Her evidence-based clinical reasoning, collaborative approach, and ability to manage complex cases underscored her commitment to delivering outstanding patient outcomes.

Megan’s diverse experience includes providing in-home and clinic-based services for Speech Source Therapy, where she worked with children aged birth to 12, offering parent support, behavioral strategies, and individualized treatment plans. She also contributed to the Pasadena Unified School District, where she provided school-based OT services, collaborated with multidisciplinary teams, and advocated for students’ needs through Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).

Beyond her clinical expertise, Megan Velasco’s strengths include her ability to adapt under pressure, analyze complex challenges, and deliver effective solutions. Her strong communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills have earned her recognition as a mentor and advocate for her patients and colleagues.

In addition to her professional roles, Megan Velasco is a proud mother of four, balancing her family life with her full-time career. She currently manages a diverse caseload across three areas: private clients at her Santa Monica clinic, home visits for regional center clients funded by the government, and OT services for a local preschool, where she supports the developmental needs of two-year-olds.

When she’s not working, Megan enjoys playing tennis and pickleball, watching movies, and diving into a good book. Her passion for living a balanced and fulfilling life is evident both in and out of the clinic, and she continues to inspire others with her drive, compassion, and expertise.

Megan Velasco is a true visionary in pediatric occupational therapy, committed to empowering children and families to reach their fullest potential.