About us

Ashley

Hi, I’m Ashley and I’ve had the privilege of working with this incredible team since 2018. I graduated from the University of North Carolina Wilmington and earned my OT graduate degree from Milligan College. During college, I worked as a habilitation technician, gaining invaluable insights into the lives and needs of people with disabilities, which solidified my passion for OT. As the manager of the Burgaw and Wilmington clinics, I am dedicated to creating supportive, inclusive environments for the families and individuals we serve while providing guidance and support to our staff. I’m incredibly proud of our community outreach at CHOT, which connects children and families to OT services they might not otherwise have access to. Outside of work, I’m a proud mom to two daughters who inspire me daily, two dogs who keep me on my toes, and an incredible support system I couldn’t imagine living without.

Bettina

Hi! My name is Bettina, and I am from Topsail, NC. I graduated from the OTA program at Cape Fear Community College in 2021. I live in Wilmington with my cat and love working with kids to help them refine their daily skills to be their best. My favorite thing is going to the beach and making art out of the seashells I find.

Jenna

Hi! I'm Jenna, a COTA/L at Creative Hands Occupational Therapy. I graduated from CFCC's Occupational Therapy Assistant Program in 2023. When planning my career path, I considered nursing and teaching. Thankfully, occupational therapy is the perfect mix of those two professions. In my personal life, I love to listen to music, garden, take walks, kayak, and play piano. I want to encourage the same life satisfaction skills in all the children I meet. I am glad I can serve the pediatric community in a fun and functional way!

Kathy

My name is Kathy, and I am an Occupational Therapist. I have a B.S. in Kinesiology from Texas Christian University and Master of Occupational Therapy from Texas Woman’s University. I have worked in several settings, but I love working with children. It is incredible to watch them grow, learn things they didn’t think possible, and become more confident in their world.

I am originally from Arkansas but have lived in Wilmington, NC, for 17 years. My husband and I have three kids (ages 16, 14, and 9) and two big dogs that keep us busy. I am active in my church and try to play pickleball when possible.

Hailey

Hi, my name is Hailey! I’m from Rowland, NC, and recently moved to Shallotte near my family. I graduated with my Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Methodist University in August of 2022. While working at a daycare during undergrad, I explored my love of pediatrics and fell in love with OT by seeing practitioners work with children to improve their everyday lives. I spent extensive time throughout graduate school working with the pediatric population in schools, outpatient clinics, and their homes. Throughout my career as a pediatric OT, my goal is to help promote fun through all activities while helping children establish their independence and prosper in their daily lives.

Sarah

I grew up in Wilmington, North Carolina, and discovered my interest in Occupational Therapy while studying Rehabilitation Sciences at East Carolina University. I completed the CFCC COTA program with an open mind to working with any age population. Still, I quickly gravitated towards working in pediatrics as this field has always inspired me. I take great pride in my compassion and creativity and cherish spending time with my family and fiancé. I love playing tennis and exploring the outdoors with my dog, Tobi./p>

Morgan

Hi! My name is Morgan, and I am originally from Fairfax, Virginia. I graduated with my Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Shenandoah University. My passion for occupational therapy started initially with running summer camps for kids with disabilities, to being a caregiver for children with Autism/Down Syndrome in Virginia. My capstone project focused on developing a baking program to teach young adults job readiness, executive functioning, and kitchen safety skills. Outside of OT, I love to bake, explore new restaurants, and walk around Wilmington with my lab. Continuing education taught me more about sensory strategies and floor time techniques to improve attention/play skills! I am excited to join the Creative Hands team to help your child participate in daily activities to their fullest potential.

Hailey

Hi, my name is Hailey! I’m from Rowland, NC, and recently moved to Shallotte near my family. I graduated with my Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Methodist University in August of 2022. While working at a daycare during undergrad, I explored my love of pediatrics and fell in love with OT by seeing practitioners work with children to improve their everyday lives. I spent extensive time throughout graduate school working with the pediatric population in schools, outpatient clinics, and their homes. Throughout my career as a pediatric OT, my goal is to help promote fun through all activities while helping children establish their independence and prosper in their daily lives.

Chris

My name is Chris, and I am a COTA at Creative Hands Occupational Therapy. I am married, and we have a daughter. Although I moved away for a few years, Wilmington has been my home for most of my life. I graduated from Cape Fear Community College’s Occupational Therapy Assistant program in 2019. As a COTA, I have worked in both pediatrics and geriatrics, but I am most passionate about pediatrics. Having grown up with a brother with autism, I have seen firsthand how important it is to have professionals who can advocate for a child and their families, especially throughout childhood.

Haley

Hi, I'm Haley. I graduated from CFCC in 2024 after completing my internship with CHOT.  I grew up in Southport, NC, and love living in my small town. I have always had a passion for working in pediatrics. I discovered OT as a child when my brother & I received services at Creative Hands! I love being able to help and see children grow to their fullest potential. My favorite part about OT is I get to make a difference and help children achieve the things they love to do. Occupational therapy is the most rewarding career, and I am proud to be an OT practitioner. In my free time, I like to read, spend time with my family and friends, and spoil my dogs!

Halice

Hi, I'm Halice. I graduated from HGTC in 2023 after completing my internship with CHOT. I grew up in NMB, SC, and I love the beach. I love to worship by singing and playing the piano in my free time. Growing up, I always knew I was called to help children somehow. Each child is unique and holds differences and challenges in their own way. I am personally called to help children know that they are not defined by any diagnoses or struggles they may face, but they are defined by their destiny and who God created them to be. I love horses, and I dream one day to have a horse farm where children can come to a safe place to express themselves freely, engage in challenges, and learn new life skills.

Michayla

Hi, I’m Michayla. I graduated with my Master's in Occupational Therapy from Bay Path University in Longmeadow, Massachusetts. I just recently moved to Southport from Western Massachusetts with my two dogs. I found my passion for OT through my mother, a pediatric OT. Through school, I was able to explore community-based and school-based occupational therapy. I found myself drawn to help children grow and reach their full potential. I am excited to be at Creative Hands, where I enjoy working with families and children. 

Tara

Hi everyone, my name is Tara! I’m originally from Charlotte, NC, but I graduated from the University of North Carolina Wilmington in 2017. GO SEAHAWKS! Then, in 2020, I graduated with my Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from East Carolina University and moved back to Wilmington as soon as possible. I am a board-certified/licensed OT working in the pediatric outpatient setting ever since. I am dedicated to increasing your child’s quality of life utilizing clear education methods, client-centered interventions, and collaboration. I love making OT engaging with fun but challenging activities. I enjoy reading, wakeboarding, scuba diving, and playing board games with my friends and family in my free time. I also spend a lot of time with my three pets: Piper (dog), Tux (blind cat), and Rojo Jeremy (fish). I am so excited to join the Creative Hands team and can’t wait to meet you!

Morgan

Hi! My name is Morgan, and I am originally from Fairfax, Virginia. I graduated with my Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Shenandoah University. My passion for occupational therapy started initially with running summer camps for kids with disabilities, to being a caregiver for children with Autism/Down Syndrome in Virginia. My capstone project focused on developing a baking program to teach young adults job readiness, executive functioning, and kitchen safety skills. Outside of OT, I love to bake, explore new restaurants, and walk around Wilmington with my lab. Continuing education taught me more about sensory strategies and floor time techniques to improve attention/play skills! I am excited to join the Creative Hands team to help your child participate in daily activities to their fullest potential.

Denise

Hello, my name is Denise. I have been a COTA (Certified occupational therapy assistant) for 15 years. I graduated (cum laude) from Cuyahoga Community College in Cleveland, OH. I began my therapy career in hospital settings, including orthopedic rehab, ICU, and LTAC. I’ve also worked with older adults in skilled nursing/rehabilitation centers. I have recently transitioned to working in the pediatric setting, and I love it!

I look forward to meeting and getting to know the children who attend Creative Hands Occupational Therapy. Nothing is more rewarding than witnessing a child’s progress and watching them beam with pride as they reach their occupational therapy goals.

Outside work, I enjoy spending family time with my husband and son. When the weather is nice, we like to go boating and beachcombing. I love to do crafts; my favorite hobby is creating seashell art. Community activities are also important to me, and I enjoy participating in social events at the Village Yacht Club. Volunteering at a local farm has been a therapeutic weekly activity for me, and the goats and horses don’t mind the extra attention one bit, either.

Christina

After graduating from Quinnipiac University in 2001 with a degree in Occupational Therapy, I began my 23+ year career in pediatrics. I have worked in various pediatric settings, including early intervention, NICU/PICU, outpatient, and schools throughout the country. I appreciate all the valuable experience and knowledge I have gained from my colleagues and the families and children I have worked with.

I continue to have a passion for working with children and families with developmental delays, sensory processing differences, feeding challenges, neurological deficits, cognitive delays, and genetic disorders to help develop and foster independence and improve functional performance. I continue to enjoy learning and building therapeutic skills. 

I have recently completed a comprehensive professional training program to become a trained therapist in AEIOU: An Integrated Approach to Pediatric Feeding. My family (husband, two children, and dog) moved to North Carolina about 2 1⁄2 years ago, and I am excited to continue my journey as a pediatric OT and team member here at Creative Hands OT.

Katie

Hi! My name is Katie, and I am married with four children. I received my Bachelor’s degree from UNC Wilmington in 2014 and my Master’s in Occupational Therapy from East Carolina University in 2016. I have a passion for natural and holistic treatment, so I love Occupational Therapy. I love working with kids, and I feel lucky to be a part of their lives to help them grow. I embrace each child’s unique personality and challenge them to let their best self shine. I value families' trust in me with their kids and strive to implement new ideas and strategies to meet each child’s specific needs best. I have completed continuing education in Autism, ADHD, sensory processing, feeding, reflex integration, behavior, emotional regulation, and wellness, and I am happy to implement these strategies at CHOT!

Kristy

My name is Kristy Dambakly. I have been a COTA since 2001. It has been a privilege to work with children and watch them grow to their full potential. Each child is unique and special to me. I take pride in using a holistic approach when working with children to bring out their strengths. I have continued my education in sensory integration and would love to be a part of the CHOt team! My husband and I are blessed with seven children. I am a Wilmington native and love spending time with family and friends.

Nataliah

Nataliah is from Southeast Iowa. She attended Wayne State College as an undergraduate, was a student-athlete, and played for the women’s softball team. She then attended Allen College, receiving her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy in 2021. She has worked in various settings, including private practice, skilled nursing facilities, early intervention, and school systems. As an Occupational Therapist, Nataliah loves helping her patients participate in the activities they find most meaningful! She is looking forward to continuing to help both children and adults live as independently as possible. Nataliah lives in Surf City with her husband. Nataliah enjoys going to the beach, reading a good book, bike rides, and spending time with her friends and family!

Rita

Hi! My name is Rita. I graduated from WVU in 1985 with a bachelor's degree in Human Resources. After many years managing doctors' offices, I pursued a career in Occupational Therapy and graduated from the COTA program in New York in 1999.

I began the first 4 years of my career at West Point Military in elementary and middle schools, hoping to enhance children's lives with special needs. It was at that time we were blessed with two sons with Autism, and I have spent the next 23 years working to advocate for Autism, OCD, ADD, sensory integration, and anxiety disorders.

When we moved from New York to North Carolina, I took on a management role in geriatrics in a Continuing Care Retirement Program. When my sons became adults, I wanted to return to pediatrics in hopes of giving back to families and children just beginning their journey. Working at Creative Hands Occupational Therapy since 2020 has been a privilege. My husband and I are excited to live near the beach and spend quality time with our sons.

Ashley

Hi, I’m Ashley and I’ve had the privilege of working with this incredible team since 2018. I graduated from the University of North Carolina Wilmington and earned my OT graduate degree from Milligan College. During college, I worked as a habilitation technician, gaining invaluable insights into the lives and needs of people with disabilities, which solidified my passion for OT. As the manager of the Burgaw and Wilmington clinics, I am dedicated to creating supportive, inclusive environments for the families and individuals we serve while providing guidance and support to our staff. I’m incredibly proud of our community outreach at CHOT, which connects children and families to OT services they might not otherwise have access to. Outside of work, I’m a proud mom to two daughters who inspire me daily, two dogs who keep me on my toes, and an incredible support system I couldn’t imagine living without.

Tara

Hi everyone, my name is Tara! I’m originally from Charlotte, NC, but I graduated from the University of North Carolina Wilmington in 2017. GO SEAHAWKS! Then, in 2020, I graduated with my Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from East Carolina University and moved back to Wilmington as soon as possible. I am a board-certified/licensed OT working in the pediatric outpatient setting ever since. I am dedicated to increasing your child’s quality of life utilizing clear education methods, client-centered interventions, and collaboration. I love making OT engaging with fun but challenging activities. I enjoy reading, wakeboarding, scuba diving, and playing board games with my friends and family in my free time. I also spend a lot of time with my three pets: Piper (dog), Tux (blind cat), and Rojo Jeremy (fish). I am so excited to join the Creative Hands team and can’t wait to meet you!

Sarah

I grew up in Wilmington, North Carolina, and discovered my interest in Occupational Therapy while studying Rehabilitation Sciences at East Carolina University. I completed the CFCC COTA program with an open mind to working with any age population. Still, I quickly gravitated towards working in pediatrics as this field has always inspired me. I take great pride in my compassion and creativity and cherish spending time with my family and fiancé. I love playing tennis and exploring the outdoors with my dog, Tobi./p>

Christina

After graduating from Quinnipiac University in 2001 with a degree in Occupational Therapy, I began my 23+ year career in pediatrics. I have worked in various pediatric settings, including early intervention, NICU/PICU, outpatient, and schools throughout the country. I appreciate all the valuable experience and knowledge I have gained from my colleagues and the families and children I have worked with.

I continue to have a passion for working with children and families with developmental delays, sensory processing differences, feeding challenges, neurological deficits, cognitive delays, and genetic disorders to help develop and foster independence and improve functional performance. I continue to enjoy learning and building therapeutic skills.

I have recently completed a comprehensive professional training program to become a trained therapist in AEIOU: An Integrated Approach to Pediatric Feeding. My family (husband, two children, and dog) moved to North Carolina about 2 1⁄2 years ago, and I am excited to continue my journey as a pediatric OT and team member here at Creative Hands OT.

Nataliah

Nataliah is from Southeast Iowa. She attended Wayne State College as an undergraduate, was a student-athlete, and played for the women’s softball team. She then attended Allen College, receiving her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy in 2021. She has worked in various settings, including private practice, skilled nursing facilities, early intervention, and school systems. As an Occupational Therapist, Nataliah loves helping her patients participate in the activities they find most meaningful! She is looking forward to continuing to help both children and adults live as independently as possible. Nataliah lives in Surf City with her husband. Nataliah enjoys going to the beach, reading a good book, bike rides, and spending time with her friends and family!

Rita

Hi! My name is Rita. I graduated from WVU in 1985 with a bachelor's degree in Human Resources. After many years managing doctors' offices, I pursued a career in Occupational Therapy and graduated from the COTA program in New York in 1999.

I began the first 4 years of my career at West Point Military in elementary and middle schools, hoping to enhance children's lives with special needs. It was at that time we were blessed with two sons with Autism, and I have spent the next 23 years working to advocate for Autism, OCD, ADD, sensory integration, and anxiety disorders.

When we moved from New York to North Carolina, I took on a management role in geriatrics in a Continuing Care Retirement Program. When my sons became adults, I wanted to return to pediatrics in hopes of giving back to families and children just beginning their journey. Working at Creative Hands Occupational Therapy since 2020 has been a privilege. My husband and I are excited to live near the beach and spend quality time with our sons.