Kayla Swaringen, OTD, OTR/L ​

Kayla graduated from North Carolina State University where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology with a concentration in Integrative Physiology and Neurobiology. She received her Occupational Therapy Doctorate from Virginia Commonwealth University. Kayla has extensive experience working with children with autism through Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) training and her work as a developmental therapy paraprofessional before attending occupational therapy school. Kayla has volunteered with other pediatric populations, including those with Down Syndrome and hemiplegia, and completed fieldwork rotations in outpatient pediatrics, the school system, and a trauma step-down unit in acute care. Additionally, Kayla served as the American Occupational Therapy Association’s Special Interest Section (SIS) Chair intern while in occupational therapy school, solidifying her passion for staying involved in professional organizations. As part of her doctoral capstone, Kayla conducted research related to auditory hypersensitivity and is fascinated by sensory processing and occupational therapy’s role in helping children navigate challenges in this area.

n her free time, Kayla enjoys spending time with loved ones, including snuggling her cat, Mabel, putting together cheese boards, and exploring new places!​