Our Team
Ms. Elise
MS, OTR/L
Pediatric Occupational Therapist
Elise received her Masters of Occupational Therapy at SUNY Downstate in New York City where she is from. She spent 6 years living in Nicaragua to surf and work with children - both as a surf instructor and a school teacher. A deep-rooted love of play and movement brought her to pediatric occupational therapy. Elise’s passion for working with kids in the water and her dream of bringing OT to surf therapy led her naturally to aquatic therapy, and she loves working in the therapy pool. She came to Oahu as a school-based OT working on the west side, and is committed to being of service to her community.
Masters in Occupational Therapy
SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY
Bachelor of Arts - Liberal Arts
Bennington College, VT
Fun Facts!
What is your favorite childhood smell?
Christmas trees - everyone can be so kind and loving during the holidays!
What was your favorite game or activity as a child? As an adult?
As a child my favorite game was sharks and dolphins at the pool, or hide and seek (and it kind of still is!)
As an adult my favorite activities are surfing with friends or skipping rocks at the beach.
What is your secret talent?
Catching popcorn in my mouth and juggling
What is your favorite quote from an animated/childrens' movie?
“Just keep swimming...” - Dory (Sometimes I catch myself saying this out loud when I’m paddling out to waves!)
Certifications and Trainings
Favorite part of being a pediatric therapist
Helping others through the joy of play
Places Lived
New Jersey > Brooklyn, NYC > Nicaragua
Hobbies and Interests
Surfing, weightlifting, swimming, skateboarding, yoga, meditation, free diving