Natalie serves as a clinical occupational therapist in this lab, where she provides client-centered and creative interventions to stroke survivors participating in the study. She is passionate about supporting individuals and their caregivers through the recovery process, helping them to re-engage in meaningful daily activities. 

Her research background centers on integrating trauma-informed care into occupational therapy practice and education, with projects focused on cooking skills training and life skills interventions for survivors of trauma. Clinically, Natalie has experience working with both pediatric and adult populations, always emphasizing functional and compassionate approaches. 

Natalie earned her Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree from the University of Texas at El Paso and holds her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from the University of Houston. In her free time, she enjoys going on hikes with her husband and 3-legged dog Petey, painting with watercolors, and trying new restaurants around town.