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Shelly Watkins, MSOT, OTR/L, CAS

Occupational Therapist

Farmington Hills & Virtual‍ ‍

Shelly Watkins, MSOT, OTR/L, CAS, is a dedicated occupational therapist committed to helping individuals across the lifespan achieve greater independence, confidence, and meaningful participation in their daily lives. With experience supporting diverse populations, including children, adults, individuals with neurodiversity, and those with complex psychosocial needs, Shelly brings a holistic, client-centered approach to therapy.

Before becoming an occupational therapist, Shelly built a successful career in Corporate America, serving in a variety of professional roles that developed her skills in communication, leadership, collaboration, and problem-solving. Her transition into occupational therapy was driven by a desire to pursue a more purposeful path—one centered on human connection, advocacy, and empowering others to reach their fullest potential.

Shelly has a special interest in neurodiversity-affirming care, sensory regulation, mental health, and trauma-informed practice. She believes occupational therapy is about understanding the whole person and creating meaningful opportunities for individuals to engage in the activities and experiences that matter most to them.

Her approach is grounded in compassion, creativity, and collaboration, with a focus on recognizing strengths, building confidence, and supporting each person’s unique journey toward wellness and independence.

work with Shelly

    • Baker College, MSOT

    • Baker College, BS in Pre-Occupational Therapy

    • Western Michigan University, BS in Communications

    • ADHD, Autism & AuDHD

    • Motor Coordination & Gross Motor Deficits

    • Occupational Therapy

    • Psychoeducation

    • Children (4-10)

    • Preteens

    • Teens

    • Adults

    • Blue Cross Blue Shield

    • Blue Care Network *

    • Aetna

    • Priority Health

    *Please note: BCN is only able to be billed for occupational therapy services for clients who have an existing Autism diagnosis.

Get to know Shelly

  • I love occupational therapy because it allows me to make a meaningful impact across every stage of life and with a diverse range of populations. Through patient-centered care, I am able to support individuals, including autistic children and adults, in building independence, developing daily living skills, and participating more fully in the activities that are most meaningful to them. I value the holistic nature of occupational therapy, which addresses physical, cognitive, emotional, sensory, and environmental factors to promote overall well-being. Every day presents a new opportunity to empower others and make a lasting difference in their lives.

  • "Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced" - James Baldwin

  • Outside of occupational therapy, I enjoy embracing creativity, curiosity, and moments of intentional quiet. I love music, live concerts, art, poetry, and exploring the ways creativity connects people and expresses the human experience. I am also a voice-over artist, with experience in both national and local voice-over projects. I hope to one day combine my passion for voice, creativity, and occupational therapy by creating calming, regulation-focused audio experiences and therapeutic stories designed to support the autistic community and promote emotional well-being.

    I am a lifelong learner who enjoys exploring new ideas, cultures, and technology. I have a passion for learning languages and hope to become fluent in Japanese and Brazilian Portuguese. I have also taken flying lessons and would love to complete my training one day, as I enjoy the challenge of learning new skills and seeing the world from different perspectives. I am fascinated by the possibilities of expanding my knowledge of how emerging technologies such as AI, can enhance creativity, communication, and meaningful connections. I appreciate good food, meaningful conversations, traveling, and finding inspiration in everyday experiences - the simple things.

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