Heather Sparkman
Menifee,CA
Summary
Compassionate and detail-oriented Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) with clinical fieldwork experience in pediatric and post-acute rehabilitation settings. Skilled in patient support, therapeutic activity implementation, and interdisciplinary collaboration to improve patient independence and quality of life. Background in healthcare administration and patient communication through extensive front office management experience. Known for strong time management, adaptability, and excellent patient-centered care.
Experienced with therapeutic interventions that promote patient recovery and independence. Utilizes patient-centered approaches to maximize treatment efficacy and comfort. Knowledge of various therapeutic modalities and strong interpersonal skills to support patient success.
Skilled healthcare professional with focus on delivering impactful patient care in rehabilitation settings. Adept at executing treatment plans, supporting patient progress, and adapting to dynamic clinical environments. Strong emphasis on collaboration, ensuring cohesive teamwork and seamless operations. Reliable and versatile, with solid foundation in therapeutic techniques and compassionate patient interaction.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Occupational Therapy Assistant Fieldwork Student
San Jacinto Valley Post Acute
Hemet, CA
12.2025 - 02.2026
- Assisted in delivering occupational therapy services for patients recovering from illness, injury, or surgery.
- Supported interventions to improve activities of daily living (ADLs), mobility, and functional independence.
- Observed and participated in treatment sessions under supervision of licensed occupational therapists.
- Assisted with patient safety, equipment setup, and therapeutic exercises.
- Implemented treatment interventions to support individual objectives in daily living, clinical, educational and vocational areas.
- Improved patient outcomes by implementing evidence-based treatment plans and individualized care.
- Supported patient recovery by implementing therapeutic exercises and functional activities.
- Educated patients and families on home exercise programs, promoting continued healing outside the clinical setting.
- Demonstrated adaptability in adjusting to dynamic patient schedules and fluctuating caseloads, ensuring timely and effective care delivery.
- Assisted patients with completing basic daily living activities such as grooming, dressing and self-feeding.
- Established compassionate and caring relationships with patients.
- Coordinated interventions with multidisciplinary treatment team.
Occupational Therapy Assistant Fieldwork Student
Kids Connections
Rancho Cucamonga, CA
10.2025 - 12.2025
- Assisted occupational therapists in providing pediatric therapy services supporting developmental milestones.
- Implemented therapeutic activities to improve fine motor skills, sensory processing, and daily living skills.
- Supported patient engagement through structured play and individualized treatment strategies.
- Collaborated with therapists to monitor patient progress and maintain documentation.
- Collaborated with occupational therapists to implement evidence-based interventions and progress tracking.
- Supported children in skill-building activities, promoting independence and confidence in daily tasks.
- Monitored client progress and documented improvements, ensuring accurate records for therapy sessions.
- Educated families on home exercises and adaptive strategies, fostering involvement in client care.
- Implemented creative therapeutic activities using play-based methods to engage young clients effectively.
- Collaborated with occupational therapists to develop comprehensive treatment plans for patients.
- Maintained accurate documentation of patient progress, ensuring efficient communication among healthcare team members.
- Developed strong rapport with patients, fostering trust and enhancing their commitment to therapy goals.
- Managed caseloads effectively while prioritizing the needs of each individual patient.
Front Office Manager
Miracle-Ear
Murrieta, CA
03.2018 - 07.2024
- Managed front office operations for multiple clinic locations.
- Trained and onboarded new employees on clinic procedures and patient care protocols.
- Programmed and cleaned hearing aids while assisting patients with device maintenance.
- Coordinated scheduling and confirmed patient appointments.
- Managed billing processes and supply ordering for clinic operations.
- Provided excellent customer service while maintaining a professional and organized clinic environment.
- Oversaw scheduling and appointment management, optimizing staff availability and patient flow.
- Trained and mentored front office staff, enhancing team performance and service quality.
- Managed front office operations, ensuring smooth daily workflows and exceptional customer service.
- Monitored inventory of office supplies, ensuring adequate stock levels to support operations seamlessly.
- Resolved guest complaints professionally, maintaining positive relationships with customers for future business opportunities.
Education
Associate Degree - Occupational Therapy Assistant
American Career College
Anaheim, CA02-2026
Skills
- Therapeutic Activities & Exercise Implementation
- Activity Analysis
- Pediatric & Geriatric Therapy
- Adaptive Equipment Training
- Balance & Functional Rehabilitation
- Patient & Family Education
- Clinical Documentation
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration
- Patient Communication
- Time Management & Organization
Certification
NBCOT Board Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) – National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy
Timeline
Occupational Therapy Assistant Fieldwork Student
San Jacinto Valley Post Acute
12.2025 - 02.2026
Occupational Therapy Assistant Fieldwork Student
Kids Connections
10.2025 - 12.2025
Front Office Manager
Miracle-Ear
03.2018 - 07.2024
Associate Degree - Occupational Therapy Assistant
American Career College
Professional Presentation
- Occupational Therapy Association of California (OTAC) Conference Presenter
- Presented a research poster on the transition from military to civilian life and pursuing occupational therapy education after interviewing veterans enrolled in occupational therapy programs.