Elizabeth Martinsen,OTR
- Occupational Therapy
Elizabeth has a strong professional interest in supporting individuals with a variety of functional and developmental needs. She specializes in pediatrics and neurological conditions, with a focus on helping patients improve their ability to engage in activities of daily living. Her areas of expertise include cognitive development, sensory processing, and visual motor and visual processing skills. Elizabeth is dedicated to providing personalized, goal-oriented therapy to help individuals overcome functional challenges and reach their fullest potential.
- Associates of Science-Occupational Therapy, Northwoods Technical College, Ashland, WI
- Bachelor's in Psychology and Human Development, University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, Green Bay, WI
- Master of Science in Occupational Therapy, Concordia University of Wisconsin, Mequon, WI
I've worked within occupational therapy since 2012. I have been able to experience and pursue my passion working in pediatrics, learning from many mentors, patients, and families along the way. I've been apart of pediatric outpatient care, early intervention, and school based care. I also enjoy working with the adult population and primarily have been doing so through the skilled nursing facilities working with young and older adults who are recovering from injury or illness. I have experience working with several challenges and diagnoses including but not limited to: Autism, ADHD, sensory processing challenges, developmental coordination disorder, visual perceptual deficits, behavioral concerns, cognitive challenges, genetic conditions, developmental delays, Dementia, Parkinson's disease, CVA (stroke), TBI (traumatic brain injury) and other neurological conditions, cardiac care, and some upper extremity orthopedic needs after shoulder, knee, and hip replacement care or surgical repair.
I have experience working with Therapeutic Listening, iLS sound therapy, Wilbargar Therapressure Protocol, MNRI, Rhythmic Movement Training.
Philosophy of Care:
In pediatrics and adult based care: I follow patient centered, whole body care. I integrate neuromuscular, developmental, movement, and sensory rich treatment based approaches into my plan of cares. I use activity analysis, combined with physio and science to create fun and motivating based activities to work on reaching goals.
When working with kids, I also follow a play based approach, that is child centered and sometimes can be child led. Focusing on connection first then progressing to goal attainment and development of skills and function- based on each child's unique needs. There are always a lot of caregiver/parent/family based tips and tricks to be given as well.
When working on goals that are not movement or developmentally based- I focus on the patient needs and wants, help them adapt, create routines and healthy habits to enjoy life to their fullest despite any challenges going on.
Why Elizabeth Went Into Medicine:
I went into healthcare to help people. I love life and serving others. It's a joy to learn how other's live and to help them in their journey of life and wellness.
Personal Interests:
Outside of her work, Elizabeth enjoys spending time with her family and embracing the natural beauty of the outdoors. She has a special love for anything on or near Lake Superior, and enjoys hiking, fishing, and capturing scenic moments through photography. Staying active is also important to her, and she regularly makes time for running and working out.