Melissa Schaeffer
About Melissa Schaeffer
Melissa Schaeffer is an Assistant Supervisor in Pediatric Occupational Therapy at NYU Langone Medical Center and an Assistant Professor at Nova Southeastern University.
Current Positions and Roles
Melissa Schaeffer is currently serving as an Assistant Professor in Occupational Therapy at Nova Southeastern University. Additionally, she holds the position of Assistant Supervisor in Pediatric Occupational Therapy at NYU Langone Medical Center Hospital for Joint Diseases. Melissa is also the Owner of Flourishing Kids OT, a practice located in New York, New York.
Past Professional Experience
Prior to her current roles, Melissa Schaeffer worked as an Occupational Therapist at National Rehabilitation Hospital from 2004 to 2009. During her tenure, she gained valuable experience in various aspects of occupational therapy, laying a solid foundation for her future career.
Educational Background
Melissa Schaeffer holds a Bachelor of Applied Science (BASc) in Occupational Therapy from Boston University, obtained between 2000 and 2004. She further specialized in pediatric science and achieved a Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions.
Certifications and Specialized Training
Melissa is certified in Sensory Integration therapy and the administration of the Sensory Integration and Praxis Test. She has advanced training in Physical Agent Modalities, including hot and cold therapy, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound. Additionally, she holds specialized skills in kenesiotaping, and the treatment of hypo and hypertonia, fragile infants, and has NDT training. She is also a Saebo trained therapist.
Research and Presentations
Melissa Schaeffer has conducted research in the areas of constraint therapy, sensory integration, and early power mobility. She has shared her findings and insights through presentations at both local and national levels, contributing to the broader field of pediatric rehabilitation.