Meet Our Therapists: Melissa VanKooten

Steel City Speech is thrilled to be adding Occupational Therapy services to our practice with the addition of Melissa VanKooten, M.S., OTR/L! Melissa earned her Master of Science degree in Occupational Therapy degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2020. We are so excited to have you, Melissa!

Tell us about your family.

I have been married to my husband, Eric, for 7 years. We have two adorable and hilarious children, Camilla “Millie” and Jude.

Do you have any hobbies or interests?

When I’m not scheming new activities or playing with my kids, I really love baking, enjoying the outdoors and traveling.

Favorite Birmingham restaurant?

There are so many great restaurants in Birmingham, which makes it difficult to just choose one! I am always craving a Back Forty burger and fries though.

Where did you go to school?

I completed my undergraduate degree at the University of South Alabama, and my Master’s degree at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

What made you want to be an OT?

Truthfully, the idea was planted in my head by family members who noticed and called out a natural gifting in being around people with special needs. I have a cousin with Autism, and I have always felt a special connection to him. I also have a very playful personality, so pursuing a career in occupational therapy felt like a natural choice.

What's your favorite aspect of being an OT? 

I love that I get to PLAY with kids all day while knowing that there’s the added bonus of helping them achieve their goals! It truly is such a special and meaningful profession.

What are your favorite resources for learning more about occupational therapy?

I really love and refer often to TheOTToolbox.com. There are so many great resources, tips and tools offered on their website, all in a very approachable and easy to understand format.

What's the one thing you wish parents knew about occupational therapy?

Occupational therapy can be a transformative tool for helping children develop essential life skills, and promote independence and confidence. Parents need to know that their children are capable, resilient and able to learn new skills in their own way.

You can reach Melissa at melissa.vankooten@steelcityspeech.com